Faith
Teacher’s Settlement Sparks Debate on Religious Freedom
In a significant affirmation of religious freedom and traditional values, a Wisconsin teacher has successfully settled with the Argyle School District after facing termination for adhering to his Christian beliefs. Jordan Cernek, who was dismissed in May 2023, refused to comply with a district mandate requiring staff to use preferred names and pronouns for trans-identified students, citing his religious convictions.
The Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty (WILL) announced that the district agreed to a $20,000 settlement, concluding the legal battle that began with a lawsuit filed in July 2024. This lawsuit argued that Cernek’s termination violated both Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the First Amendment, as well as the Wisconsin Constitution’s protections of religious freedom.
“To avoid acting contrary to his religious convictions, Mr. Cernek made the District aware of his religious objection to this requirement and agreed not to use any names when referring to students,” the WILL announcement stated. Despite this compromise, the district warned Cernek that failure to comply would lead to disciplinary action, culminating in the non-renewal of his teaching contract.
Cernek expressed gratitude for the resolution and remains committed to encouraging fellow educators to uphold their beliefs. “I am grateful that there was some resolution to this matter and will continue to encourage teachers to stand up for their beliefs,” he stated.
Nathalie Burmeister, Associate Counsel for WILL, underscored the broader implications of this victory for religious freedom, calling it a “core liberty that our nation and state were founded upon.” She added, “Jordan’s victory is critical to advancing the cause of religious freedom across the country.”
This case is part of a larger trend where educators face professional consequences for adhering to their religious beliefs. Notably, Kansas math teacher Pamela Ricard and Virginia French teacher Peter Vlaming both faced similar challenges and reached substantial settlements with their respective districts. These cases highlight the ongoing struggle to balance religious convictions with progressive policies in educational settings.
In response to such incidents, several states have enacted laws to protect teachers who choose not to use preferred names and pronouns due to religious objections. Wyoming and Idaho have taken legislative steps to safeguard the rights of educators and state employees, reinforcing the importance of religious freedom and individual conscience.
As we navigate these challenging times, the importance of standing firm in our faith and values cannot be overstated. The resolution of Cernek’s case serves as a beacon of hope for those who believe in the enduring principles of faith, family, and freedom that have long been the bedrock of our great nation.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith
Christian Hostages Taken Amid Kaduna Church Attacks
Faith Facts
- Fulani militants kidnapped 177 Christians from churches in Kaduna, Nigeria.
- At least 166 believers remain missing after the Sunday morning attacks.
- A slain Anglican priest’s wife and daughter were recently freed from captivity.
Faithful Christians in Kaduna, Nigeria, faced horrific persecution as armed Fulani militants stormed three churches, abducting entire congregations and disrupting Sunday worship. Reports show government attempts to stifle news, but local leaders confirm the truth of these ongoing attacks on believers.
Victims testified to the terror that struck two Cherubim and Seraphim churches and an Evangelical Church Winning All Sunday school, with 177 worshippers initially taken and only eleven eventually escaping captivity.
“We were in church worshipping when Fulani terrorists emerged from three directions,” testified Yunana Dauji, a church secretary. “They were armed with AK-47 rifles and surrounded the church. They warned that anyone who tried to run would be shot.”
The invaders, self-identified as Fulani, forced Christians from church buildings into the wilderness, holding them under threat of violence. Authorities, who first denied the kidnappings, have since acknowledged the devastating assault after facts were verified by security personnel.
Only days before, God answered prayers for another suffering family. The wife and daughter of a murdered Anglican priest, Reverend Edwin Achi, were rescued after months in bondage. Local church members praised the Lord for their deliverance and prayed for comfort.
“Lord we are grateful for their safe return after spending three months in captivity,” shared Kate Ebere, a church member. “It’s my prayer that God continue to console the Achi’s family, Anglican Diocese of Kaduna, and entire Anglican communion. And, may the soul of Ven. Edwin Achi continue to rest in peace.”
The local governor pledged ongoing care and support for these victims, recognizing their suffering and the need for healing. Violence against Christians remains severe in Nigeria, with Fulani militants and bandits responsible for the deaths of thousands in recent years, far surpassing other extremist groups.
Now more than ever, people of faith must lift up persecuted Christians, call for truth, and stand united in defending the God-given right to worship freely. Pray for the captives, their families, and for the restoration of safety and hope in Nigeria.
Faith
Tyndale’s Legacy: Faith, Focus, and Freedom
Faith Facts
- In 1526, William Tyndale published the first English New Testament translated directly from Greek.
- Tyndale’s work ignited a movement that shaped the English language, literature, and Christian worship.
- Despite persecution, Tyndale’s translation influenced the King James Bible and remains foundational for believers.
Five centuries ago, William Tyndale’s English New Testament made God’s Word accessible to everyday people and sparked a revival of faith and freedom.
Though banned and burned, Tyndale’s unwavering commitment brought Scripture into homes and hearts across the land.
Born in 1494, Tyndale was passionate about giving ordinary folk the chance to understand God’s truth in their native tongue.
He famously declared, “If God spare my life, I will cause a boy that driveth the plough to know more of the Scripture than thou dost.”
Pursuing this mission, Tyndale’s efforts ignited the English Reformation and carried God’s Word into even the humblest lives.
Denied legal permission, he fled England for the sake of the Gospel, courageously working in exile under constant threat.
His dedication brought the New Testament into England, even as authorities burned copies publicly in hopes of stopping the movement.
Tyndale wrote, “I never altered one syllable of God’s Word against my conscience,” making clear his devotion to truth.
For years, he labored to translate and refine Scripture so that shepherds and farmers could access it as easily as scholars.
Phrases we still cherish today, such as “Let there be light” and “Fight the good fight,” flowed from his work.
In 1536, Tyndale was betrayed, imprisoned in harsh conditions, and ultimately executed for his obedience to Christ.
His final prayer declared, “Lord, open the King of England’s eyes!” — a request answered within two years when English Bibles were officially permitted.
Tyndale’s selfless service continues as more than 80% of the King James New Testament is drawn from his translation.
His unwavering courage reminds us that faith calls for obedience and sacrifice, not comfort or popularity.
Today, Bibles are widely available, yet Tyndale’s example urges us to value and apply God’s truth in our lives.
Let us pray for those continuing Tyndale’s mission so that every language may know the hope of the Gospel.
If you want to hear God’s voice, read His Word—aloud, if you’re able—and let it transform your home and nation.
We encourage you to read through the Bible this year using resources like the Robert Murray M’Cheyne Bible Reading Plan, a blessing to believers since the 1800s.
May we treasure, study, and share Scripture in the same spirit of devotion and patriotism as Tyndale himself.
Faith
US Pauses Visas to Protect American Values
Faith Facts
- The U.S. State Department has suspended visa processing for 75 countries due to concerns about high welfare use among migrants.
- The agency explained that the pause will stay in place until new safeguards are established to prevent abuse of American generosity.
- Countries such as Somalia, Haiti, Iran, and Eritrea are affected as their immigrants are often reported to become public charges.
The United States is taking steps to ensure that immigration policies reflect responsible stewardship of resources and protect the well-being of families across our nation.
This pause reflects a commitment to compassion rooted in accountability, honoring the nation’s obligation to safeguard both opportunity and security for American citizens.
“We are working to ensure the generosity of the American people will no longer be abused.”
As Christians, we are called to care for others while also protecting the blessings God has entrusted to us and our communities.
Stay informed and pray for wisdom for our leaders as they uphold justice and compassion in these critical decisions.
-
Self-Reliance10 months agoTrump’s Bold Move Uncovers Massive Social Security Fraud
-
News11 months agoGovernor Walz’s Rhetoric Sparks National Controversy
-
Faith9 months agoNew Clues Emerge in Noah’s Ark Mystery
-
Family10 months agoTexas Lawmaker Targets Furries in Schools
-
News10 months agoMel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’ Sequel Title Announced
-
Freedom10 months agoMaine Lawmaker Challenges Sports Fairness Controversy
-
Family8 months agoCanada’s Controversial Policy Sparks Ethical Debate
-
Faith2 months ago
Congress Hears Pleas for Nigerian Christians
