November 1 During the Solemnity of All Saints, Pope Leo XIV declared Saint John Henry Newman a Doctor of the Church, honoring his contributions to education and faith. Newman, now co-Patron of the Church’s educational mission alongside Saint Thomas Aquinas, was celebrated for his insights into human dignity and vocation. Commenting on the Beatitudes, the Pope reminded Christian educators they follow the path of “Jesus the Teacher” and called schools and universities “laboratories of prophecy.” (Vatican News)
October 31 Can’t make it to Museum of the Bible for the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit (or already saw it and looking for more)? The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) Museum in Chicago is celebrating 100 years of excavations at Megiddo, an important archaeological site in Israel, with a special exhibit running through March 15, 2026. Otherwise known as the biblical Armageddon, Megiddo has revealed 20 successive cities and played a pivotal role in developing modern archaeological methods. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
October 31 Christians in Egypt are advocating for Easter to be recognized as an official public holiday, citing the need for over 10 million Christians to freely observe one of their most sacred days. A petition, supported by Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) International, argues that the lack of recognition forces many to choose between work or school and their faith. While Egypt recognizes other religious holidays, such as Orthodox Christmas, Easter remains (so far) excluded. (Christian Daily)
October 31 Hot on the heels of the SBC report (below), the Episcopal Church’s 2024 Parochial Report reveals similar declines in engagement, with slight dips in the number of parishes and baptisms. Worship attendance continued to gradually rebound post-COVID to 413,000, but remains far below the 600,000 in 2014. Membership, last reported at 1.547 million in 2023, has steadily declined from 1.96 million in 2010. Financially, 2024 marked the first year in a decade where expenses exceeded income. (Christianity Daily)
October 30 Analysis of the Southern Baptist Convention’s (SBC) 2024 Annual Church Profile reveals membership declines across most regions, with 40% of churches shrinking and only 21% growing. Growth is concentrated in newer (founded since 2000) and larger (500+ attendees) churches, while older and smaller ones experienced declines. Urban churches show the most growth (26%) but also the highest decline (45%). The Northeast and West lead in growth, but the South remains the SBC’s stronghold. (Lifeway Research)
October 30 Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia basilica is now the world’s tallest church, reaching 162.91 meters (534 feet), after a section of its central tower was lifted into place. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, the basilica’s central “Tower of Jesus Christ” will eventually rise even higher to 172 meters (564 feet) upon completion. Construction, begun in 1882 and funded by entrance fees from 4.9 million annual visitors, is expected to finish within a decade. (AP News)
October 30 The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) concluded its General Assembly in Seoul, South Korea, with the installation of Rev. Botrus Mansour as Secretary General and the adoption of the Seoul Declaration. Mansour, a Palestinian Christian, emphasized unity and reclaiming the term “evangelical” as bearers of good news. The Seoul Declaration addresses issues of sexuality, religious freedom, and social justice, affirming traditional views on marriage and life while calling for compassion and humility. (Christian Today)
October 30 Washington state has resolved a legal dispute over its child abuse reporting law, which initially required clergy to report abuse learned during private confession. Following lawsuits from Catholic and Orthodox clergy, the state agreed not to enforce this requirement. Clergy, though mandatory reporters, are now exempt from reporting information disclosed in sacred rites. The controversy was notable for its nuanced conflict between two important priorities: protecting children and ensuring religious freedom. (RNS)
October 29 Burial practices in biblical Judah, dating to the Iron Age (1200–586 BC), involved family tombs carved into bedrock or natural caves. These tombs featured a main chamber with stone benches for laying out the deceased, whose bones were later moved to a communal repository. Families stayed in the tomb for seven days, leaving behind artifacts like pottery, oil lamps, and perfume juglets. These practices reflect both archaeological findings and biblical texts. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
October 29 Bible sales in the U.S. surged 36% in September, reaching 2.4 million copies, following the assassination of Christian activist Charlie Kirk. HarperCollins Christian Publishing attributes the rise to renewed spiritual interest, particularly among 18- to 34-year-oldsm while analysts note that national crises often drive people to faith for comfort. Bible sales have been steadily increasing, with a 22% rise in 2024 and an 11% increase so far in 2025. (RELEVANT, from Wall Street Journal)
October 29 The Church of England reported a fourth consecutive year of growth, with 1.009 million regular worshippers in 2024, up 0.6% over 2023. Weekly attendance rose 1.6% to 702,000, driven by a 1.8% rise in adult participation. Baptisms and confirmations also increased, with adult baptisms up 11.5% and teenage baptisms rising 14%. While attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels, some churches are thriving, buoyed by renewed engagement and outreach, particularly among youth. (Christian Today)
October 28 Most Americans are skeptical of paranormal phenomena, with 39% believing in ghosts and 24% in witches. Weekly churchgoers are the most doubtful. Similarly, while 30% consult astrology or tarot annually, it’s mostly for entertainment rather than guidance. Historically, ghosts are seen as pitiable spirits tied to places or people, while demons are malevolent tricksters serving the Devil. Protestant reformers rejected ghosts as fabrications but accepted the possibility of demonic possession. (Baptist Press and RNS)
October 28 Former Intel CEO Patrick Gelsinger is now leading Gloo, a Christian AI company that develops tools like chatbots and AI assistants for churches, seeking to align technology with faith. Gelsinger likens AI’s potential to the Reformation’s printing press, calling it a “Gutenberg moment” for the church and an opportunity to “hasten the coming of Christ’s return.” Gloo’s initiatives include a recent $250,000 hackathon and a “Flourishing AI” program to evaluate AI’s impact on spiritual growth. (The Guardian)
October 27 Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered a massive New Kingdom fortress near the Sinai-Gaza border. Built to defend the Way of Horus, a key trade route connecting Egypt to the Levant, the fortress features 350-foot-long walls, 11 defensive towers, and a residential area. Artifacts include pottery, a bread oven, and a jar handle stamped with Pharaoh Thutmose I’s name. The site, still undergoing excavation, offers insights into Egypt’s Bronze Age military and trade efforts. (Biblical Archaeology Society and New York Post)
October 26 The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) opened its 14th General Assembly in Seoul, South Korea, uniting leaders from 161 national alliances under the theme “The Gospel for Everyone by 2033.” The event, running through October 31, focuses on global evangelism and unity ahead of the 2,000th anniversary of Christ’s resurrection. Secretary General-designate Botrus Mansour emphasized unity in diversity, while Asian and Korean leaders highlighted the region’s evangelical growth. (Christian Daily)
October 26 After 15 years of construction, the People’s Salvation Cathedral in Romania opened as the world’s largest Orthodox church, with thousands gathering for the consecration of the church’s icons. Over 410 ft. tall, with room for 5,000 worshippers, the cathedral features an astonishing 191,000 sq. ft. of mosaics inspired by historical Orthodox art. While celebrated as a national symbol of faith, the €270 million project, funded largely by public money, faced criticism for diverting resources from schools and hospitals. (AP)
October 24 Pioneering yet controversial feminist biblical scholar Phyllis Trible died age 92 in Manhattan. As a professor at Union Theological Seminary (1979–1998), Trible argued against biblical interpretations that suggested God loves men more than women, writing that “the intentionality of biblical faith, is neither to create nor to perpetuate patriarchy but rather to function as salvation for both women and men.” Her works include God and the Rhetoric of Sexuality (1978) and Texts of Terror (1984). (New York Times)
October 24 Sophia Forchas, a student shot at Annunciation Catholic School in Minnesota on August 27, has been released from the hospital the day before her 13th birthday, despite initial fears for her survival. Sophia’s parents expressed gratitude for the medical team and global prayers, including from Pope Leo XIV. Sophia will continue outpatient therapy as she regains her ability to walk and play sports. The family also remembered the classmates lost in the tragedy and called for continued prayers for peace. (Aleteia)
October 23 Archaeologists in Colossae, Turkey, uncovered over 60 tombs dating back 2,200 years, making it the largest necropolis in Anatolia. The biblical city, addressed in St. Paul’s Epistle to the Colossians but later abandoned after an earthquake in 787 AD, revealed rock-cut tombs, terracotta ceramics, oil lamps, and personal items like coins and sandals. Lamps symbolized guiding souls to the afterlife, while charms and amulets reflected pre-Christian spiritual practices. (New York Post)
October 23 On Jerusalem’s Mount of Olives, monks and nuns continue the centuries-old tradition of harvesting olives supported by volunteers from diverse backgrounds, a practice rooted in prayer and reverence. The site, where Jesus prayed before His crucifixion, is home to ancient olive trees. Even this year, amid drought and regional conflict, the harvest yields oil for sacraments and community use. Rev. Diego Dalla Gassa likened the process to spiritual growth, saying, “The olive is only good when pressed.” (AP)
October 23 For the first time ever, Prime Video’s Top 10 features three faith-based shows: The Chosen Adventures, The Chosen, and House of David. The Chosen Adventures, an animated spinoff, debuted on October 17, and House of David, a drama about King David, continues to draw viewers, while The Chosen remains popular months after its fifth season release. It’s a major moment for biblical storytelling, showing its growing mainstream appeal and ability to compete in the streaming wars. (RELEVANT)
October 23 The Lausanne Movement released a global survey of 1,030 Christian leaders from 119 countries that suggests a renewed optimism in the future of the church. Despite challenges like secularism, political polarization, ethical failures, and AI, leaders identified digital missions, youth engagement, and collaboration as ripe opportunities to reengage gospel-ready youth — especially in Africa and South Asia, where younger generations are emphasizing renewal and revival. (Christian Daily)
October 23 As announced (see Oct. 17 below), King Charles III and Pope Leo XIV held a historic joint prayer service in the Sistine Chapel — the first time a British monarch has publicly prayed with a pope since the Reformation. The ecumenical service, part of a two-day visit to the Vatican, sought to strengthen ties between the Catholic Church and the Church of England. The event featured prayers led by the Pope and the Archbishop of York, with choirs from the Sistine Chapel and St. George’s Chapel, Windsor. (The Times)
October 22 As if to illustrate the previous story (below), a 2,700-year-old Neo-Assyrian inscription was discovered near Jerusalem’s Temple Mount, providing the first direct evidence of royal correspondence between Assyria and Judah during the First Temple period. The fragment, inscribed in Akkadian cuneiform, mentions a delayed payment and a “chariot officer,” an Assyrian royal envoy. Dated to the reigns of Sennacherib or Hezekiah, it aligns with biblical accounts of Judah’s tribute to Assyria. (Jerusalem Post)
October 22 In the late 8th century BC, Assyrian invasions forced northern Israelite scribes to flee to Judah, influencing the Hebrew Bible with traditions about the 12 tribes and northern kings which scribes in the southern kingdom likely would not have known. Archaeological evidence, including seal impressions from a scribe named Menahem, reinforce this theory, while King Hezekiah’s projects, like the Siloam Tunnel and new city wall, reflect northern influence and the effect of the influx of refugees. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
October 22 In 2023, it was predicted that 100,000 churches would close in the U.S. in the next few years — but experts suggest the decline may be slowing. While 15,000 closures are expected in 2025, this reflects lingering effects of COVID-19 rather than a long-term trend. Small, aging congregations face challenges like declining attendance, financial strain, and costly building maintenance. However, many churches are adapting by repurposing properties for community use, such as affordable housing or shared spaces. (MinistryWatch)
October 22 Pope Leo XIV met with Ending Clergy Abuse (ECA), a global group advocating for a universal zero-tolerance policy on clergy sexual abuse. The meeting, attended by survivors from five countries, was the first time a pope engaged with an activist organization on this issue. The pope acknowledged resistance to universal reforms but committed to ongoing dialogue, leaving survivors feeling hopeful for further progress. (RNS)
October 21 According to the Bible Access Initiative, sub-Saharan Africa faces the most severe Bible shortages, with 14 of the top 20 countries. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, and Ethiopia top the list. Economic barriers, limited translations, and distribution challenges exacerbate the issue, while other regions face government restrictions, anti-conversion laws, and social hostility. The report calls for tailored solutions, such as digital and audio Bibles, to address these diverse challenges. (Christianity Today)
October 21 After nearly 50 years of effort spanning three generations of missionaries, the Ngalik people of Indonesia have received the first complete Bible in their native language, Silimo. Begun by Ed and Shirley Maxey in 1970, the project was completed by their son Buzz, his wife Myrna, and local translators. Despite challenges like remote access and political tensions in the region, the translation’s arrival has transformed the Ngalik community, enabling them to read, preach, and worship in their heart language. (Christian Daily)
October 21 The Catholic Church’s global population grew by 16 million in 2023, reaching 1.4 billion, or 17.8% of the world’s population. Increases were seen across all continents, including Europe. Yet at the same time, the number of priests continues to decline, dropping to 406,996, except in Africa and Asia, where slight increases were recorded. The number of seminarians also fell globally, though, the Church continues to educate nearly 72 million students worldwide through its extensive educational infrastructure. (Aleteia)
October 20 A Pew Research Center study found a growing belief among Americans that religion is regaining influence, with 31% agreeing (up from 18% last year). Additionally, 59% hold a favorable view of religion’s influence, up from 49% in 2022. The shift spans political, age, and religious demographics, with Jewish Americans (44%) and white evangelicals (36%) most likely to see religion’s influence increasing. However, 58% of Americans feel their religious views conflict with mainstream culture. (RNS)
October 20 On November 9, churches worldwide will observe Orphan Sunday, focusing on the theme “Together for Children and Strong Families,” inspired by Psalm 68:6. Organized by World Without Orphans (WWO), the initiative calls on congregations to support orphans and vulnerable children, addressing challenges like exploitation, trafficking, and lack of family stability. With over 140 million children globally orphaned, WWO provides resources like prayer guides and activity ideas to mobilize action. (Christian Daily)
October 20 Former Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Executive Committee president Morris H. Chapman died today age 84. During his service (1992–2010), he strengthened the Cooperative Program, achieving record contributions and unifying the denomination after its Conservative Resurgence. He also served as SBC president (1990–1992) and pastored churches in Texas and New Mexico. He is survived by his wife, two children, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. (Baptist Press and RNS)
October 17 Why “Jesus”? The name is a transliteration of the Greek Iēsous, itself derived from the Hebrew “Joshua” (Yehoshua), meaning “Yahweh is salvation” — as when Matt. 1:21 declares he will “save his people from their sins.” The name also evokes Joshua, Moses’ successor, who led Israel into the promised land. While modern translations retain “Jesus” due to the King James Version’s influence, the name’s original meaning enriches our theological and scriptural understanding of His redemptive work. (The Gospel Coalition)
October 17 King Charles III will make history as the first reigning English monarch in 500 years to pray publicly with a pope. During his state visit to the Vatican, he will join Pope Leo XIV in an ecumenical service at the Sistine Chapel in the first such event since the English Reformation began in 1534. It’s a significant step in improving relations between the Catholic Church and the Church of England, reflecting ongoing efforts toward unity after centuries of division. (The Guardian)
October 16 GAFCON, a conservative Anglican movement, has announced a major split from the Anglican Communion, rejecting the authority of the Archbishop of Canterbury and other Instruments of Communion. This decision follows disagreements over issues like sexuality and gender, culminating in the appointment of Sarah Mullaly as the Archbishop of Canterbury. The movement will form the Global Anglican Communion, a fellowship of autonomous provinces adhering to the Jerusalem Declaration of 2008. (Premier Christian News)
October 16 Why do so-called “lost” gospels continue to draw such fascination? These texts appeal to those seeking alternative perspectives on Jesus, drawing on a cultural distrust of authority and obsession with conspiracy theories. A new book by Simon Gathercole evaluates gospels against four apostolic benchmarks: Jesus as Messiah, his saving death, resurrection, and fulfillment of Scripture. The canonical Gospels align closely with these elements, while apocryphal texts often diverge. (The Gospel Coalition)
October 16 Global persecution of Christians has intensified, according to the International Society for Human Rights (ISHR). Authoritarian regimes and militant groups in countries like Nigeria, Pakistan, China, and North Korea oppress Christians through surveillance, violence, forced conversions, and legal restrictions. Additionally, Turkey has expelled over 200 foreign Christian workers since 2020, citing “national security” concerns, despite no recorded incidents of Christian terrorism. (Christian Daily and Christian Today)
October 15 The State of the Bible report’s latest chapter reveals divided perceptions of the Bible among U.S. adults. For instance, while 36% believe it is “totally accurate,” 24% say it’s “just another book.” Although 18% think the Bible was written just to manipulate people, 58% (or 148 million people) say the Bible has transformed their lives. The study also highlights that Scripture-engaged individuals exhibit higher levels of trust in other people, families, and religious institutions. (Baptist Press and American Bible Society)
October 15 Oklahoma’s new public schools superintendent, Lindel Fields, rescinded a controversial mandate requiring Bibles in classrooms and their integration into lesson plans. The directive, introduced by former Superintendent Ryan Walters, faced widespread criticism, legal challenges, and noncompliance from school districts. Fields emphasized that decisions about Bible use in education should be left to individual districts and that taxpayer funds should not be used for such initiatives. (AP News)
October 15 Archaeologists in Turkey discovered 1,300-year-old carbonized communion bread stamped with an image of Jesus as a sower and a Greek inscription reading, “With gratitude to the blessed Jesus.” Found in the ancient city of Eirenopolis, the bread’s preservation was due to rare conditions, and its agrarian motif reflects the faith and labor of local Byzantine communities. Likely used liturgically, the bread offers insights into early Christian worship and daily life. (Aleteia)
October 15 NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has revealed a vast and intricate universe, capturing tens of thousands of galaxies in a single image. While its discoveries may instill humility in regard to humanity’s smallness in the cosmos, they also testify to the wonder expressed in biblical passages such as Psalm 8:3-8. The paradox of an infinite Creator caring for finite beings underscores the miracle of divine grace, which reaches the pinnacle of its expression in the incarnation of Christ (Phil. 2:5-8). (BioLogos)
October 14 A new state-sponsored Texas English curriculum integrates extensive lessons on Christianity, including Bible stories, the life of Jesus, and Christian influences on history, surpassing the religious content of its original version. Critics worry the curriculum subtly promotes Christian beliefs over other religions and risks blurring church-state boundaries, while supporters argue it enhances understanding of foundational concepts in Western history, culture, and thought. (The New York Times)
October 14 Contrary to earlier reports, Jim Caviezel will not be reprising his role as Jesus in Mel Gibson’s The Resurrection of the Christ. The long-awaited sequel to The Passion of the Christ will feature an all-new cast, including Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen as Jesus and Mariela Garriga as Mary Magdalene. The decision was a practical one, to avoid the high costs of de-aging the original actors. The two-part film will explore the events following Jesus’ crucifixion, with Part One releasing on Good Friday 2027. (RELEVANT)
October 14 Former Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger, now with Gloo, urged Christians to embrace AI as a tool for advancing God’s purposes during the “AI for Humanity” event. He compared AI to the printing press, calling on Christians to harness its potential to address global poverty and education. In pastoral contexts, some argue that while AI tools can aid pastors with research and efficiency, they lack the Spirit-led discernment and depth essential for preaching in Christian community. (Christianity Daily and The Gospel Coalition)
October 11 Chinese authorities have detained Pastor Jin “Ezra” Mingri and nearly 30 leaders of Zion Church, one of China’s largest house church networks, in a coordinated crackdown across six cities. The arrests, citing “illegal dissemination of religious information,” follow years of government pressure on Zion, which counts nearly 10,000 members across 40 cities. Despite the persecution, house churches continue to meet and minister to the sick and marginalized. (Christianity Today and The Gospel Coalition)
October 10 A closer look at the 2025 State of Theology study (see Sept. 22) reveals shifts in U.S. evangelical beliefs post-pandemic. Evangelicals who believe Jesus was only a teacher declined to 28% (down from 43% in 2022) and those who think modern science disproves the Bible declined to 19% (from 30%), while belief in the obligation to join a local church rose to 61% (from 36%). However, 53% still view the Holy Spirit as a force, not a person, and 47% believe God accepts worship from all religions. (Lifeway Research)
October 9 Pope Leo XIV released his first Apostolic Exhortation, Dilexi te (“I have loved you,” Rev. 3:9), emphasizing the inseparability of faith and care for the poor. The document critiques economic inequality, “throwaway culture,” and systems that marginalize migrants and women. Quoting various saints, the Pope urges Christians to recognize Christ in the poor, avoid being led astray by secular ideologies, and work toward dismantling unjust structures to promote dignity and justice for all. (Vatican News)
October 9 Over 1,400 evangelical Christians from more than 60 countries gathered in Jerusalem during the Jewish holiday of Sukkot to show support for Israel, citing a “Biblical duty” to stand against antisemitism. Participants emphasized their theological and moral commitment to Israel as being central to biblical prophecy. While some oppose a two-state solution, others stressed reconciliation and prayer for Palestinians. The event coincided with the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. (AP)
October 9 A Barna Group study confirmed earlier findings that Gen Z and Millennial men are driving a rise in U.S. church attendance, with 46% of Gen Z men and 55% of Millennial men attending weekly, compared to lower rates among women. This shift, driven in part by the pandemic fostering a need for community and purpose, marks a reversal of past trends where women outnumbered men in church. Today, many young women cite gender inequality in church leadership as a barrier to participation. (Religion Unplugged)
October 7 The second part of Lifeway’s discipleship study (see August 21) found that 52% of U.S. Protestant pastors claim to have an intentional discipleship plan, but only 30% use specific methods to measure its effectiveness. While 71% believe such methods exist, only 29% say they consistently assess discipleship progress. Larger churches and those established since 2000 are more likely to evaluate and describe their strategies as effective. (Lifeway Research)
October 7 The Bible Access List published an interactive map and table highlighting the regions where access to Scripture is most challenged due to restrictions and shortages. The report (see October 4, below) shows the results of efforts by oppressive regimes and extremist groups to weaken Christian communities. Initiatives like Open Doors’ Ground Zero program are working to address this crisis by distributing and teaching Bibles. With this map, you can see for yourself where the need is greatest. (Bible Access List)
October 6 Today is the 500th anniversary of William Tyndale’s first printed work, the “Cologne Fragment,” which introduced Matthew’s Gospel in English to the public. Despite opposition and danger, Tyndale completed the first full English New Testament in 1526. Though betrayed and executed for heresy in 1536, his translation became the foundation for modern English Bibles, coining terms like “atonement” and “Passover” that influenced the King James translators and are still in wide use today. (Christian Today)
October 6 Tony Evans, founder of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, has completed a yearlong restoration process following his admission of an undisclosed sin in 2024 — but will not be returning to church leadership. During a “Restoration Sunday” service, Evans apologized to his congregation and family, expressing regret for the “instability this season has caused.” Jonathan Evans, his son, is expected to be installed as the church’s new lead pastor. (RNS)
October 4 A new study by the Bible Access Initiative found that 100 million Christians worldwide lack access to a Bible due to legal restrictions, persecution, and severe shortages. Countries like Somalia, North Korea, and Nigeria face the highest barriers, while millions in nations such as India and China await copies of Scripture. The report suggests a combination of digital, audio, and print Bibles to address this “modern famine of the Word.” (Christian Daily)
October 3 The 2025 “Bring Your Bible to School Day,” organized by Focus on the Family, is expected to involve 2 million students across the U.S., a significant increase from last year’s 1.3 million participants. The event encourages students to share Scripture and discuss faith in schools, with support from over 10,000 churches. Adults are also participating, with an estimated 3.5 to 4 million joining by bringing Bibles to workplaces. (Christianity Daily)
October 3 Dame Sarah Mullally has been named the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, a historic milestone for the Church of England. She will lead the Anglican Communion’s 85 million members worldwide. Mullally said her first calling is to follow Christ, but acknowledged challenges including declining church attendance, mishandled abuse scandals, and divisions over gender issues — including her own appointment, which though celebrated by many, has drawn criticism from conservative Anglican groups. (Various sources)
October 2 Robert Morris, founder of Gateway Church in Texas, has pleaded guilty to five counts of child sexual abuse from the 1980s. He will serve six months in an Oklahoma jail, register as a sex offender, and pay $270,000 to survivor Cindy Clemishire. The abuse, which began when Clemishire was 12, came to light last year, leading to Morris’s resignation and an independent investigation. Gateway Church apologized for initially mischaracterizing the abuse. (Christianity Today)
October 2 Prison Fellowship International and Bible League International have partnered to distribute 620,000 Bibles to prisoners in 20 countries over five years. Building on a 2019 collaboration, which provided over 570,000 Bibles, this initiative supports inmates completing the “Prisoner’s Journey” program, offered in 700+ prisons globally. The Bibles, available in eight languages, include 52 study lessons tailored to prison life, emphasizing the transformative power of Scripture to foster rehabilitation. (Christian Daily)
October 2 A new, large-scale study identifies a global pattern of religious decline: the Participation–Importance–Belonging (P-I-B) sequence. It begins with a decrease in worship attendance, then in personal importance of religion, and ends with declining formal affiliation. The study, analyzing data from over 100 countries, shows secularization progressing fastest in Europe, while Africa remains highly religious. Scholars debate whether this trend signals the end of religion or a shift toward individualized spirituality. (RNS)
September 30 Bible translation efforts are accelerating, with 118 new translations released worldwide in the past year, including 23 full Bibles and 95 New Testaments. Wycliffe Bible Translators estimate that brings the full Bible to 197 million people for the first time in their native language, while 54 million gained access to the NT. Translation programs have also begun in 461 new languages, preserving endangered tongues and fostering literacy. But 1.5 billion people still lack access to the Bible in their language. (Christian Today)
September 30 Over 7,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria this year, bringing the total to 52,000 deaths since 2009. Islamist extremists have destroyed thousands of churches and displaced millions, yet government accountability remains rare. Despite the horror, faith endures as displaced Christians gather in shelters and share Scripture, while advocacy groups like Open Doors and Global Christian Relief provide aid, trauma care, and advocacy. (RELEVANT)
September 30 The new YouTube series The Promised Land reimagines Moses’ desert journey as a workplace comedy in the style of The Office. Created by Mitch Hudson, a crew member of The Chosen, the series balances comedy with serious moments, such as the golden calf incident. It also highlights overlooked perspectives, like Miriam’s role as a prophetess. Showrunners hope the focus on humor will make Old Testament stories relatable and encourage viewers to revisit Scripture. (RNS)
September 28 Big events coming up next month for Bible scholars: Alongside the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Annual Meeting — the world’s largest gathering of biblical scholars — in Boston, MA from Nov. 22-25, the Biblical Archaeology Society will host its 28th Annual Bible and Archaeology Fest right next door, Nov. 21-23. And the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC will be displaying the world’s oldest Bible manuscripts in their Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit opening Nov. 22 and running through September 7, 2026.
September 28 Award-winning novelist Marilynne Robinson discussed the religious dimensions of her work in a lengthy interview. Among her insights is the uniqueness of Genesis among all ancient literature: “The idea that God explicitly calls creation good — you don’t find that anywhere else. … Human beings, understood in their fallibility and their frailty, are absolutely central in the cosmos of this very ancient book, and that is such a phenomenal thing. There’s nothing to compare.” (New York Times, paywalled)
September 28 Digital Bible sales surpassed print for the first time ever, and Brazil surpassed other countries in distributing the latter. Millions are seeking faith advice from AI chatbots — and watching AI Bible videos. Religious people are happier and have stronger self-identity than nonreligious. Oh, and the Rapture was predicted — but didn’t happen — on September 23-24. Review all the biggest, strangest, and most inspiring Bible news stories of September!
