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Surfing Priest’s Heroic Act Inspires Community Courage
In a world where true heroism often goes unnoticed, Father Liam Ryan stands as a beacon of courage and faith. Known affectionately as “the surfing priest,” Father Ryan has once again demonstrated the profound impact of living a life rooted in Christian values and service to others. Leading Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral Parish in Broome, Western Australia, Father Ryan recently rescued a father and son from the perilous waters of a riptide, showcasing the timeless virtues of bravery and selflessness.
Father Ryan’s actions are a testament to the power of faith in action. He recounted seeing “a couple of fellows who looked like they were getting pretty close to where a little flash rip was.” Without hesitation, he paddled over to them, offering his surfboard as a lifeline. This act of courage is not just a demonstration of physical bravery but also a reflection of the Christian principle of loving one’s neighbor.
This is not the first time Father Ryan has put his life on the line for others. In 2021, he heroically saved a fellow surfer from a shark attack, an experience that underscores the profound strength that faith provides in moments of crisis. He recalled seeing the surfer “off his board, looking really lost, and there was half a board floating there.” Despite the danger, Father Ryan’s immediate response was to call for help and assist in bringing the injured man back to shore.
In the aftermath of such harrowing events, Father Ryan finds solace and strength in prayer. Reflecting on the shark attack rescue, he shared having “a little bit of a cry, and just blessed the Lord.” This moment of quiet reflection highlights the deep spiritual foundation that guides his actions. “There’s something deep inside you that wants to help. Christianity is built on that principle of someone giving their life for you,” he said, emphasizing the core tenets of Christian faith that inspire him.
Father Ryan’s bravery has not gone unrecognized. In 2022, he was honored with an Australian Bravery Award, a fitting tribute to his unwavering commitment to serving others. His story is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from living a life guided by biblical principles and the grace of God. As he eloquently put it, “You come face to face with what would be one of the greatest fears for a lot of people, a lot of surfers… but what gives you strength in that moment is the grace of God.”
In a society that often overlooks the importance of faith, family, and freedom, Father Ryan’s actions serve as an inspiring example of how these values can shape and strengthen our communities. His story is a call to embrace the virtues of courage, compassion, and faith, reinforcing the belief that, through God, all things are possible.
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Faith Facts
- Jalloh, Sierra Leone native and ex-Army National Guard combat engineer, pleaded guilty in 2016 to aiding ISIS with funds and gun plots, serving 11 years until December 2024 release.
- FBI probes shooting as terrorism; students “rendered him no longer alive,” averting greater tragedy per special agent Dominique Evans.
- Shah, ODU alum returned as ROTC leader in 2022, embodied Biblical manhood mentoring future warriors for God and nation.
A convicted ISIS supporter, Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, shouted “Allahu Akbar” before gunning down an ROTC instructor at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia.
Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, an Army helicopter pilot veteran of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eastern Europe, died heroically protecting students.
Two fellow military personnel were wounded, but patriotic ROTC cadets swiftly subdued the jihadist attacker, neutralizing the threat in under ten minutes.
“Didn’t just lead a life of service to our country, he taught and led others to follow that path.”
Pray for slain hero Lt. Col. Shah’s family, healing for the wounded, and divine protection over our defenders of Judeo-Christian freedoms. Stand firm with Faith and Freedom Report—subscribe today.
Faith Facts
- RSP, formed four years ago, crushed establishment parties amid 60% turnout after deadly 2025 protests killed 76.
- Balendra Shah, 35-year-old former mayor, leads anti-corruption charge promising 1.2 million jobs and moral reforms.
- First female interim leader Sushila Karki guided nation post-Hindu monarchy era toward stable, values-driven republic.
Nepal’s faithful have witnessed a divine intervention in politics as the Rastriya Swatantrata Party swept 125 of 165 direct seats in recent elections.
This landslide follows a youth uprising against corruption, toppling a corrupt regime and paving the way for righteous leadership rooted in justice and freedom.
Generations weary of 14 unstable governments since 2008 now rejoice, echoing Proverbs 29:2 where the righteous rise and people celebrate godly order.
This victory underscores family values and economic opportunity, rejecting godless corruption for Biblical principles of honest labor.
Pray for Nepal’s leaders to uphold faith, family, and freedom. Join FFR in defending Christian patriotism worldwide.
Faith Facts
- Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last Shah, positions himself as successor to end Islamist tyranny.
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- Trump calls Iranians to seize control, echoing Proverbs’ wisdom against wicked rulers.
Exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi gains prominence after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death in U.S.-Israel strikes defending freedom.
President Trump announced joint attacks to dismantle Iran’s military might and spark regime change, urging citizens to reclaim their God-given liberty.
Supporters in Los Angeles waved pictures of Pahlavi alongside Netanyahu and Trump, celebrating hope for a values-aligned future.
Stand with patriots praying for Iran’s deliverance to honor faith, family, and freedom—share this vital update today.
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