November 28 Bible sales in the U.S. have risen 11% in 2025, continuing steady growth since 2021. HarperCollins reports increased demand across all types, including children’s and study Bibles, with diverse editions helping meet the surge. The Jesus Bible, designed for Gen Z readers, has been particularly successful, reflecting growing interest in faith among younger generations. (The Christian Century)
November 26 Collin Hansen of The Gospel Coalition (TGC) reflected on the challenges Christianity faces in a secular age where faith often feels “unnecessary.” Hansen examines the decline of religion in Europe and parts of the U.S., attributing it to factors like prosperity, individualism, and the legacy of Protestantism’s high moral expectations. Yet he also identifies three emerging tensions — Islam’s rise, collapsing fertility rates, and security concerns — that could reignite interest in Christianity as a source of hope and cohesion. (TGC)
November 25 Some small relief out of Nigeria, as 50 children aged 10-18 escaped captivity after being kidnapped from their Catholic school last week (see Nov. 21, below), but over 250 students and 12 teachers remain missing. The Diocese of Kontagora, which owns the school, is urging prayers and support for their safe return. The mass abduction was the latest and perhaps most shocking event in the ongoing religious conflict in Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom are rampant. (RNS)
November 24 The Gospel Coalition (TGC) has announced its 2025 Book Awards, recognizing 22 outstanding evangelical books across various categories, selected based on their gospel-centered arguments, faithful use of Scripture, and ability to address contemporary challenges while fostering church unity. Notable winners include Bobby Jamieson’s Everything Is Never Enough and Brad Edwards‘ The Reason for Church, among many others. (The Gospel Coalition)
November 24 What does your Bible cover might say about you? According to a humorous new article, a lot — from duct-taped covers symbolizing a well-used life to floral covers representing long-standing church dedication. The piece playfully categorizes Bible owners, including those with minimalist black leather covers, camo-print designs, or Instagram-worthy aesthetics. While lighthearted, the article ends with a reminder that it’s the inside of the Bible that holds the power to shape lives, regardless of its cover. (Lifeway Research)
November 23 Kim Kardashian revealed she anonymously purchased her late father Robert Kardashian’s Bible for $80,276 at an auction. Kim said the Bible, which had been inscribed and gifted by Robert to O.J. Simpson during the 1994 murder trial, holds sentimental value for her, since she has few items from her father. Even so, she presented the Bible, which had been initially offered for $15,000 publicity raised the starting bid, to her sister, Khloé, as a gift. (Christian Post)
November 21 Violence against Christians continues to escalate in Nigeria, most recently with a church shooting during service and the abduction of over 200 children from a Catholic school. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) and the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) have commended Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for religious freedom violations, urging the U.S. and Nigerian governments to take decisive action. (AP and Baptist Press)
November 21 The Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians in Europe (OIDAC) reported 2,211 anti-Christian hate crimes across Europe in 2024, including 274 personal attacks, 94 arson incidents, and widespread vandalism. France, the UK, Germany, and Spain recorded the highest numbers. The report also discussed legal restrictions on religious freedom such as bans on public prayer, and urged governments and media to protect religious rights and promote balanced reporting. (Evangelical Focus)
November 20 Thousands gathered at Utah Valley University for a crusade led by Greg Laurie, held in memory of Charlie Kirk, who was tragically killed on campus two months prior. Titled “Hope for America,” the event featured worship by Phil Wickham and a gospel message from Laurie, urging attendees to commit to faith in Jesus. Over 2,100 people from a mix of evangelicals, Latter-Day Saints, and nonbelievers professed faith in person and online. (Christianity Today)
November 20 A federal judge ordered 14 Texas school districts to remove Ten Commandments displays from classrooms by December 1, ruling that the state law mandating the displays violates the U.S. Constitution. The ruling follows similar legal battles in Arkansas and Louisiana over religious displays in public schools. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is appealing the decision and pursuing lawsuits against districts refusing to comply with the law. (Baptist Press)
November 19 A new interactive museum dedicated to the Shroud of Turin has opened at the Christ Cathedral campus in Garden Grove, California. Titled “The Shroud of Turin: An Immersive Experience,” the $5 million exhibit features 360-degree projection rooms, replicas of the shroud and crown of thorns, and a life-size sculpture of Jesus, plus a dramatic re-creation of his resurrection. The exhibit explores the shroud’s history, scientific studies, and its significance as a symbol of Christ’s suffering. (AP News)
November 19 The Frick Collection in New York City is hosting an exhibit titled To the Holy Sepulcher: Treasures from the Terra Sancta Museum, showcasing over 40 artifacts from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. These 17th- and 18th-century treasures, donated by European Catholic rulers, include gem-encrusted gold and silver liturgical objects and luxurious vestments. The display will remain until January 5, 2026, before traveling to Fort Worth, Texas. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
November 19 Christianity Today has appointed Dr. Nicole Massie Martin as its new President and CEO. Dr. Martin has over 25 years of leadership experience in nonprofits, academia, and ministry, most recently as CT’s Chief Impact Officer and COO since 2023. She hopes to continue Billy Graham’s vision for CT, focusing on creative storytelling and unifying the church. The announcement is the latest editorial shakeup at CT, with news editor Daniel Silliman having announced his departure earlier this week. (Christianity Today)
November 18 Nondenominational churches are now the fastest-growing segment of American Christianity, with 14% of Americans identifying as nondenominational Christians, up from less than 3% in 1972. These churches emphasize a personal relationship with Jesus and a casual, inclusive approach to worship. Experts predict nondenominational Christians could surpass Roman Catholics as the largest religious group in the U.S. within 15 years. (CBS)
November 18 Christian developers are creating innovative games that blend faith and entertainment. Video games like Bug & Seek, Sainthood, and The Serpent & The Seed, and board games like Deliverance, offer unique ways to explore Scripture, theology, creation, and even spiritual warfare. While there’s no substitute for the Word, games like these can provide entry points into complex topics and inspire both Christians and non-Christians with themes of faith, charity, and community. (The Gospel Coalition)
November 17 Despite declining religiosity in the U.S., Bible sales continue to soar, with 2025 on track to surpass last year’s record-breaking numbers. Over 18 million Bibles have been sold this year, driven by personalized special editions (including children’s Bibles) and renewed interest in faith among younger generations. Analysts attribute the surge to a search for spiritual stability amid societal turmoil. Still, only 20% of Americans are “Scripture engaged,” leaving a gap between ownership and active use. (RNS)
November 17 South Africa’s new Section 22 Committee, established to curb church abuse scandals by overseeing religious activities, has sparked protests from Christian groups who view it as a violation of religious freedom. Supporters of the committee see it as a necessary step to protect congregants from widespread exploitation, but protesters argue that existing laws already address these crimes, making the committee both unnecessary and unconstitutional. (Religion Unplugged)
November 17 Season 2 of House of David on Amazon Prime traces David’s rise from a shepherd to a military leader, exploring his relationships with King Saul, Jonathan, and Mychal. The season features exciting battles and political intrigue, though it stretches biblical narratives with fictional elements like Saul’s concubine and altering timelines. After a slow start, the finale accelerates the story, covering four Bible chapters in one episode and setting the stage for David’s eventual kingship. (Christianity Today)
November 14 Word continues to spread of spiritual revival among Gen Z, with college ministries across the U.S. reporting unprecedented engagement, especially among men. At the University of Illinois Chicago, weekly Bible study attendance has surged, and similar growth is seen nationwide, including at Salt Network ministries and Summit Church events. Leaders say students are drawn to foundational Christian teachings, hungering for truth and seeking clarity in a culture of confusion. (The Gospel Coalition)
November 14 Pope Leo XIV’s first international trip, later this month, will focus on fostering unity between Catholic and Orthodox Christians. The itinerary includes a a joint visit to İznik (ancient Nicaea) in Turkey with Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople Bartholomew I, to celebrate the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea. But first up on Leo’s agenda is hosting a gathering of Hollywood celebrities to explore how “artistic creativity” can support the mission of the church. (RNS and The Guardian)
November 14 The Complutense Polyglot Bible, a six-volume work commissioned in early 16th-century Spain, is celebrated as a Renaissance masterpiece that paradoxically influenced both Catholicism and Protestantism. Featuring texts in Latin, Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, it was intended to affirm Catholic orthodoxy while also providing tools for deeper biblical study. Yet its meticulous design and inclusion of original languages inspired later Protestant translations, such as the Reina-Valera Bible. (Evangelical Focus)
November 13 The 15th-century Borso D’Este Bible, celebrated as the “Mona Lisa of illuminated manuscripts,” is on rare public display in Rome as part of the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations. Known for its intricate miniature paintings in gold and Afghan lapis lazuli, the two-volume masterpiece was commissioned by Duke Borso D’Este and created between 1455 and 1461. Usually housed in Modena, the Bible is being showcased in the Italian Senate under strict humidity-controlled conditions until January 16. (AP News)
November 13 The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has announced the “Catholic American Bible,” a new English translation set to release on Ash Wednesday 2027. This translation will unify texts used in Mass, the Liturgy of the Hours, and private devotion. It features a revised New Testament, the Abbey Psalms and Canticles, and updated introductions and notes. The Catholic American Bible replaces the New American Bible–Revised Edition (NABRE) and aims to make Scripture more accessible to Catholic faithful. (Aleteia)
November 13 A new Barna report, Faith-Forward CEOs: Research and Insights on Executives Who Lead Differently, reveals how Christian faith influences leadership among U.S. CEOs. Surveying 356 executives, the study found that 89% identify as Christian or value faith — but only 51% say faith actively shapes their leadership, indicating a gap between belief and practice. The report encourages leaders to integrate faith into organizational culture, viewing business as a calling rather than just a career. (Barna)
November 12 Kenyan school teachers have been fighting back against extremist groups — with choreographed gospel dances. Youth unemployment is high in Kenya (12% to as much as 67%), leaving teens vulnerable to promises of work, marriage, or adventure by terrorist organizations. Churches counter with music groups, seminars, and mentoring, steering teens away from drugs, crime, and violence — and in some cases even helping former gang members find faith and join the church choir. (Christianity Today)
November 12 Evangelist Franklin Graham drew over 70,000 attendees during a two-night outreach event in Argentina. The event, coinciding with what would have been his father Billy Graham’s 107th birthday, featured a Gospel message, musical performances, and support from 2,500 local churches. Hundreds responded to the call for salvation. Graham will follow up the “crusade” with upcoming stops in India, Cambodia, Peru, and Spain. (Christianity Daily)
November 11 An estimated 3,300 languages still lack a Bible translation, and Avodah Connect is turning to artificial intelligence to help close the gap. In a webinar with Dallas Baptist University, the group said 31 translation teams are already using its AI process, and hopes to reach 50 by 2026; 11 are halfway done. Avodah believes AI can shorten traditional 20–25-year projects to 4–5 years and cut costs, while human reviewers ensure results remain “trustworthy, understandable, appealing, and appropriate.” (MinistryWatch)
November 11 U.S. Catholic bishops elected Oklahoma City Archbishop Paul S. Coakley as president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for a 3-year term, succeeding Archbishop Timothy Broglio. Brownsville, Texas, Bishop Daniel Flores will serve as vice president. A bishop since 2004 and archbishop since 2010, Coakley is known for strong pro-life advocacy, opposition to the death penalty, and statements expressing concern about gender ideology and mass deportations. (Catholic News Agency)
November 11 Renowned Bible scholar N.T. Wright claims that Christianity has never been mainly about “getting your soul to heaven,” but about God’s Kingdom coming “on earth as in heaven.” His new book The Vision of Ephesians argues that Ephesians reveals God’s plan to “unite all things in heaven and on earth.” Wright sees Ephesians as a “blueprint for rebuilding credibility” in a divided church, emphasizing church unity as a public witness that “Jesus is Lord and [earthly powers] are not.” (RELEVANT)
November 11 Is hope cooler than cynicism now? Gallup’s latest Life Evaluation Index shows global well-being quietly rising. In 2024, one in three adults worldwide were classified as “thriving,” the highest in over a decade, while only 7 percent said they were “suffering.” Hope is growing fastest in Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Asia, where communal and spiritual ties remain strong. Researchers call it “hopeful skepticism” — not blind optimism, but the belief that the future could be better and that our choices matter. (RELEVANT)
November 10 As the U.S. honors Veterans Day, former Navy chaplain Nick Hamilton reflects on Scripture’s role in healing trauma. Drawing from Psalm 22, he highlights the importance of expressing raw emotions and questioning God, as seen in David’s cries of abandonment. Hamilton warns against suppressing emotions or rushing to dismiss pain with platitudes, advocating instead for honest engagement with grief. His insights encourage trauma survivors to seek spiritual healing through open dialogue with God. (Baptist Press)
November 10 For anyone looking for a renewed take on a well-known story, the YouTube mockumentary series The Promised Land humorously reimagines Moses leading the Israelites with an Office-style twist. Season 1 explores biblical events like Mount Sinai and the golden calf, blending humor with poignant moments. While reportedly struggling at times with tone, the series adeptly expands on minor scriptural details. Creator Mitch Hudson plans 40 episodes, with Season 2 already in development. (Christianity Today)
November 14 Biblical Israel maintained a millennium-long trade network importing African ivory from the White Nile basin in modern Sudan between 1600-600 BC, despite widespread geopolitical strife. Artifacts such as luxury items and furniture inlays demonstrate the material’s cultural and economic significance, aligning with biblical accounts such as King Solomon’s ivory throne and Ahab’s palace. This research challenging assumptions about limited commerce in ancient Africa and the Middle East. (Times of Israel)
November 8 Catholics bishops have warned against visiting the controversial Marian shrine in Naju, South Korea, with some imposing automatic excommunication on those who do. The shrine, linked to unapproved claims of miracles by Julia Kim since 1985, has been repeatedly condemned by the Archdiocese of Gwangju. Bishops in Asian archdioceses like Malaysia and Singapore urge adherence to approved pilgrimage sites, such as those in Namyang, South Korea, and Akita, Japan, instead. (Aleteia)
November 7 The United Methodist Church (UMC) has approved a global restructuring plan, granting its nine regions autonomy to adapt practices like ordination and marriage rites to local contexts while maintaining core doctrines. Passed with 91.6% support, the plan aims to decentralize U.S. influence and rebuild trust after years of division over LGBTQ+ inclusion. Leaders call it a “defining moment” for unity and renewal in the UMC, enabling the denomination to better serve its diverse global communities. (RNS)
November 6 The State of the Bible report found that 55% of practicing Christians said reading the Bible made them more loving toward neighbors, while the median charitable donation of the Scripture-engaged was 4x higher than the disengaged. Even non-Christians who read Scripture reported positive changes. Yet the Scripture-engaged and -disengaged showed more similar pro-social behavior than those who felt neutral about the Bible, recalling Jesus’ warning against lukewarm faith (Rev. 3:15-16). (American Bible Society)
November 6 Researchers have unveiled the most comprehensive digital dataset of Roman roads, nearly doubling their known length. Created using archaeological, historical, and remote sensing data, the dataset offers incredible spatial precision and metadata. For Bible scholars, it presents an unprecedented opportunity to better understand the routes taken by the apostles. Only 2.7% of roads are confirmed with certainty, so many gaps remain, but the freely available resource is expected to transform Roman studies. (Nature)
November 6 Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm in Jamaica’s history, has devastated the island, displacing up to 90% of residents in hard-hit areas and destroying homes, crops, and churches. The Jamaica Baptist Union has launched relief efforts, distributing food, water, and supplies while coordinating aid with global partners like Send Relief. Pastors and volunteers are providing shelter and hope amid the destruction, with many praying for spiritual renewal alongside physical recovery. (Christianity Today)
November 5 The Bible Society’s Patmos Typology Report maps global Bible engagement across seven cultural clusters, revealing diverse challenges and opportunities. While 73% of people worldwide value faith, Bible engagement varies. In Sub-Saharan Africa, 51% read the Bible weekly, while in secular Western societies, only 24% do. Barriers like low literacy, secularism, and regional perceptions must be met with tailored strategies to make Scripture relevant and transformative across diverse contexts. (Christian Today)
November 5 Tel Megiddo in Israel continues its rich archaeological revelations (see October 31). A 5,000-year-old winepress, one of the oldest in the region, was uncovered alongside ritual artifacts from the Canaanite period. The discovery provides definitive evidence of ancient wine production during the rise of urbanization in the region. Ritual vessels, including a ram-shaped libation vessel, were also found near the city’s temple, suggesting folk worship practices by local farmers. (Jerusalem Post)
November 5 Nigeria remains the most violent country for Christians, with over 3,000 killed for their faith last year. Islamist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP, along with radicalized Fulani militants, target Christians through killings, kidnappings, and displacement. While violence is concentrated in the north, it is spreading southward, inflamed by religious extremism, poverty, and resource conflicts. Christians are 6.5 times more likely to be killed than Muslims in affected areas. (Evangelical Focus)
November 5 Construction has begun on the UK’s massive Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer, a £40 million ($52 million) Christian monument near Birmingham. The 51.5-meter-high, 80-meter-wide Möbius strip design will feature one million bricks, each linked to a story of answered prayer accessible via a mobile app. Over 100,000 prayer testimonies have been collected so far, with a goal of 250,000 by the monument’s 2028 completion. Christians worldwide are encouraged to contribute their stories. (Christian Daily)
November 4 Only 8% of U.S. Protestant pastors are highly satisfied with their church’s discipleship efforts, according to a new study. Corporate worship, community building, and serving others rank higher in focus. Obstacles include members’ lack of prioritization, complacency, and insufficient disciple-makers. Younger pastors and newer churches are more likely to emphasize discipleship, but overall, pastors acknowledge the need for greater intentionality to fulfill the Great Commission. (Baptist Press)
November 4 A Barna study found that 38% of U.S. Gen Z women are now religiously unaffiliated — a sharp historical reversal. Many cite purity culture, politicization, and emphasis on marriage and motherhood over individual spirituality as reasons for disengaging; others left out of solidarity with friends and disillusionment from church scandals. Despite institutional distrust, most remain spiritually open. Researchers urge churches to rebuild trust by reimagining discipleship and embracing “radical welcome.” (RELEVANT)
November 4 Christians in Myanmar and Armenia face worsening persecution. Myanmar’s military has destroyed over 220 churches and killed 85 clergy since 2021, targeting Christian-majority Chin State and restricting worship. In Armenia, the government is accused of detaining clergy, seizing Church assets, and undermining the Armenian Apostolic Church ahead of 2026 elections. These crises are only the latest threats to certain Christian communities, prompting further calls for urgent action in at-risk areas. (Christian Today)
November 4 Archbishop Steve Wood of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) has taken a leave of absence amid allegations of sexual misconduct, bullying, and plagiarism. Wood denies the claims, which predate his election as archbishop. A Board of Inquiry will investigate the charges while Bishop Ray Sutton assumes interim leadership. The ACNA is in the process of overhauling its clergy abuse protocols after facing multiple recent misconduct charges. (RNS)
November 2 Is church a “miracle drug” for well-being? Research from Harvard’s School of Public Health highlights the significant health benefits of regular church attendance. Studies show that attending religious services weekly can reduce mortality by 20–30% over 15 years, improve mental health, increase happiness, and foster generosity and social engagement. The findings challenge perceptions of church as outdated, suggesting it functions as a “miracle drug” for well-being. (The Gospel Coalition)
November 2 Be sure to catch up on all the biggest, most thought-provoking, and most inspiring Bible news stories of October!
