Faith Facts

• Millions of Americans risk losing food benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown, with 42 million SNAP recipients affected as funding runs short.
• Christian ministries and churches nationwide are stepping up to provide groceries, rent aid, and essentials for families, seniors, and children facing increased hardship.
• Leaders urge believers to reflect Christ’s compassion, providing practical support and embodying generous love to those in need.

Christian communities are responding to rising hunger as the government shutdown threatens SNAP benefits and increases economic stress for many families. Ministries like the Christian Service Center in Abilene, Texas and church pantries across the nation are working tirelessly to meet new levels of need as costs rise and paychecks stall.

Federal emergency funds offer limited relief, leaving churches and believers to bridge the gap and answer the biblical call to feed the hungry.

“Not always entirely their own fault. And even if it is, we’re called to be generous and compassionate and show the love of Christ in the way we interact with people around us.”

Nearly 20 percent of SNAP funds help adults over 60, while almost 40 percent aid children, highlighting the need for Christ-centered outreach to the most vulnerable.

Rising groceries, rent hikes, and job furloughs press more Americans—including first-time seekers—to reach out for relief through Christian organizations who open their doors in Christ’s name.

At the core of these ministries is a steadfast faith, trusting God to provide as they serve neighbors in need and demonstrate what it means to live the Gospel daily.

Join this mission of mercy—pray, serve, or give—uniting to uphold families, honor our calling, and keep faith, freedom, and compassion alive across our nation.

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Faith Facts

• The number of Christians in Syria has dropped from 2.1 million in 2011 to about 540,000 in 2024.
• Archbishop Jacques Mourad says ongoing violence and instability make it impossible for the Church to stop Christian migration.
• Recent attacks, such as the bombing at Mar Elias Church, highlight a severe threat to Syria’s Christian heritage.

Archbishop Jacques Mourad cautioned that the Christian faith is fading in Syria, due to worsening political chaos and the flight of believers.

He urged the world to take a moral stand by supporting reforms and guaranteeing security for besieged Christian communities.

“None of the efforts by the universal Church or the local Church managed to stem the tide of the exodus,” Mourad stated.

He explained that Christians are leaving because of government failure, not because of church action.

Reports indicate churches face persecution, targeted violence, and erosion of religious liberty as militant groups gain ground.

The historic cities of Antioch and Damascus, foundational to Christianity, are now at risk of losing their ancient spiritual identity.

“Who would accept a treaty such as this?” Mourad questioned regarding talks that may jeopardize Damascus’s water security. “Where are the human rights values that should help ensure that decisions are fair for both parties?”

Christian leaders have called on U.S. policymakers to demand constitutional protections and stop extremist groups from advancing.

Faith communities urge believers and leaders alike to stand for religious freedom, justice, and the preservation of Syria’s Christian culture.

Read the full report at The Christian Post

Faith Facts

• Nearly one in five people in England are aged 65 or older, with over a quarter expected to be above 65 by 2065.
• UK churches, supported by organizations like Faith in Later Life and the Anna Chaplaincy network, are strengthening outreach to older adults through diverse local initiatives.
• Effective ministry to seniors recognizes their diverse stages—active retirees, those with reduced activity, and individuals in care—and tailors outreach accordingly.

England faces a rapidly aging population, offering churches a vital opportunity for mission and growth. Ignoring older adults would mean overlooking a growing harvest field ready for the hope of the Gospel.

While building up younger congregations, it’s essential churches avoid stereotypes about “later life” and see seniors as a dynamic part of Christ’s body, each stage presenting unique ways to serve and engage.

Churches are reaching older members through lunch clubs, exercise sessions, outings, and accessible activities, with some parishes even organizing practical supports like chiropodist visits or home-based programs.

Ministry among “go-go” seniors often involves inviting active individuals to volunteer, participate in outreach, and discover faith in new settings, forging new relationships and service opportunities.

Outreach to the “slow-go” group includes offering fellowship and support—such as lunch clubs, bereavement counseling, and remembrance services—helping them remain woven into church life and Christian community.

For home-bound or “no-go” seniors, church members bring worship, prayer, and encouragement through visits, live-streamed services, and connections to local care homes, showing Christ’s compassion.

At the end of life, the church can minister to families through sensitive, faith-filled funeral services, offering the enduring comfort of the Gospel and a lasting testimony to God’s love.

“There is something very powerful about ministering to those who are very old, including the experience of journeying with someone to the very end of life. The impact on the wider church of mission to older people is significant.”

Every age is precious in God’s sight, and intentional ministry to older adults not only honors them but also strengthens the witness and unity of Christ’s people.

Let us stand firm in faith and love, serving all generations in Jesus’ name.

Read the full article at Christian Today