Over One-Third of Gen Z Believe Revival Likely This Year Mar. 30: Research reveals that 29% of U.S. adults, including 38% of Gen Z, believe a spiritual revival is likely within the next year. Revival expectations among younger generations are driven by spiritual hunger, prayer, and a search for meaning amid mental health challenges and societal disruption, while Boomers attribute revival primarily to youth spirituality. This research presents a critical opportunity for church leaders to address the growing desire for deeper faith. (Barna)
Nicaragua Escalates Religious Persecution, Restricts Bibles Mar. 30: The Nicaraguan government has escalated religious persecution, banning 18 religious organizations, restricting Bible imports, and revoking citizenship of religious leaders critical of the regime. A new CSW report highlights a 40% increase in persecution in 2025, including surveillance, detentions, and restrictions on worship. The U.S. and other international bodies continue to condemn Nicaragua’s severe violations of religious freedom. (Baptist Press)
Cardinal Briefly Barred From Holy Sepulchre Mar. 29: On Palm Sunday, Cardinal Pizzaballa was initially barred by Israeli authorities from entering Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre for Mass, citing safety concerns amid the conflict with Iran. After global criticism, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu intervened to grant him access. The Cardinal later blessed Jerusalem with a relic of the True Cross at Gethsemane, praying for peace and lamenting the rare disruption of Holy Week traditions. (CBS; Aleteia)
Persian-Era Infants’ Mass Grave Discovered in Israel Mar. 29: Archaeologists uncovered a tragic, Persian-era mass grave of children in a repurposed water cistern at Tel Azekah, Israel, dating back to the 5th century BC. The site, near the location of David and Goliath’s battle, contained the remains of 68 to 89 individuals, mostly children under two, along with artifacts like pottery, beads, and jewelry. Infants were not granted individual graves at the time, researchers said, as they had not achieved full social status. (Jerusalem Post)
Iraqi Christians Asked to Cancel Easter Celebrations Mar. 28: Christians in Northern Iraq have been asked to cancel traditional Palm Sunday and Easter celebrations due to ongoing regional hostilities. Typically marked by vibrant processions and community gatherings, this year’s events will be limited to church buildings. Faith leaders described the decision as a pastoral responsibility to ensure safety and show solidarity, urging Christians worldwide to pray for peace, resilience, and hope during this challenging time. (Christian Today)
Bible-Based TV Storytelling Continues to Grow Mar. 27: Streaming platforms have transformed Bible-based storytelling into binge-worthy content. This trend, kicked off by The Chosen, now includes productions such as House of David, The Old Stories: Moses, and Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints. These series combine high production values, serialized structure, and faith-driven narratives balancing authenticity and dramatic storytelling. Their success reflects a growing demand for faith-based content. (RNS)
SBC Launching Worship Survey Mar. 27 — The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) is launching a survey to better understand worship practices across its affiliated churches. Conducted by the SBC Worship Research Committee, the study aims to provide insights into worship trends, challenges, and opportunities. It will cover topics like congregation demographics, worship leader backgrounds, song and instrument choices, and ministry experiences. Results will be shared at the SBC Pastors’ Conference in June. (Baptist Press)
UK Bible Society Withdraws “Quiet Revival” Report Mar. 26: The Bible Society (UK) has withdrawn its “Quiet Revival” report after discovering data errors. The report, based on YouGov polling, suggested a rise in monthly church attendance from 8% in 2018 to 12% in 2024, especially among young men. But many critics questioned its methodology, citing discrepancies with other data sources. The Bible Society plans to conduct new research on signs of spiritual awakening, such as increased Bible sales and adult baptisms. (Christian Today)
U.S. Catholic Churches Seeing Surge of Converts Mar. 26: U.S. Catholic dioceses are seeing a surge in new members. The Archdiocese of Detroit is welcoming 1,428 converts this Easter, its highest in 21 years, and the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston reported its largest intake in 15 years. The Diocese of Des Moines is experiencing a 51% increase from last year. Many attribute this growth to a mix of personal spiritual journeys, societal instability, and the influence of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff. (The New York Times)
How Churches and Pastors Use (and Don’t Use) AI Mar. 26: New research reveals that while many church leaders are exploring artificial intelligence (AI), most churches remain cautious and lack clear policies. The study shows that 33% of churches use AI for tasks like administration, content creation, and communication, but 83% of leaders express concerns about data privacy, 51% worry about plagiarism, and 49% fear a loss of authenticity in preaching. Only 5% of churches have formal AI guidelines. (Barna)
Announcement: The Bible Gateway App Is Now Better Than Ever Mar. 25: The Bible Gateway app has been rebuilt to make reading and studying Scripture simpler, faster, and more connected to your daily life. Improved features include a faster, smoother Bible reading experience; improved dark mode; syncing across devices; emoji reactions for interesting verses; and tap “Go Deeper” to instantly view study resources. Download the app today! (Bible Gateway)
Audio Bibles Bring God’s Word to Remote Kenya Mar. 25: In Kenya, solar-powered audio Bibles are transforming lives, particularly among the visually impaired and those in remote areas. Users describe the devices as life-changing, enabling them to hear Scripture in their native languages while managing daily tasks. Distributed by organizations like “Your Network of Praise,” these audio Bibles provide access to Christian teachings for marginalized communities. (Religion Unplugged)
Biblical Epic Based on Moses to Premiere This Spring Mar. 25: Christian media continues its unprecedented growth with The Old Stories: Moses, a three-part biblical epic premiering this spring on Wonder Project’s Prime Video subscription. Starring Ben Kingsley as Moses and directed by Jon Erwin, the series serves as a companion to House of David, exploring Israel’s foundational stories before David’s rise. O-T Fagbenle co-stars as Pharaoh. The trailer is available to stream now. (RELEVANT)
U.S. Seminary Enrollment Highest in 20 Years Mar. 25: Seminary enrollment in the U.S. continues to grow, with 70,179 students in degree programs for 2025-26, up by 1,400 from the previous year and the highest since 2006. Hispanic enrollment saw the largest increase, rising 28% from 2023 to 2025. Seven of the 10 largest seminaries are Baptist-affiliated, with Liberty Theological Seminary leading at 6,344 students. Online-only participation also grew, now comprising 48% of students. (MinistryWatch)
Sarah Mullally Installed as 106th Archbishop of Canterbury Mar. 25: Dame Sarah Mullally has been installed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first woman to hold the role. The ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral was attended by 2,000 guests including the Prince and Princess of Wales and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Mullally reflected on her journey from NHS nurse to spiritual leader as she addressed global conflicts, safeguarding failures, and the Church’s challenges, urging trust in God’s promises. (Christian Today and AP)
Anne Graham Lotz, Daughter Share How Medical Ailments Inspired New Book Mar. 24: Anne Graham Lotz and her daughter, Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright, are continuing the legacy of Billy Graham through their ministry and writing. Lotz, 77, leads AnGel Ministries, while Wright, 51, serves as vice president and leads a global online Bible study. Their upcoming book, God Won’t Leave You There: Joseph’s Story, explores resilience through the biblical story of Joseph, inspired by their personal health challenges. (RNS)
Vast Monastic Complex Discovered in Egypt Mar. 24: Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered a 5th-century monastic complex, part of the second-largest monastic cluster in Christian history. The site includes 13 rooms serving as living quarters, hospitality halls, teaching areas, and prayer spaces. Artifacts at the site include murals with monastic and plant motifs, a Coptic funerary stele, pottery, and a marble column. The find shows how early Christian monks balanced asceticism with social and resource management. (Jerusalem Post)
Bible Sales, Engagement Continue to Rise Mar. 23: Bible sales in the U.S. reached over 19.1 million in 2025, a 12% increase from 2024 and triple the sales of a decade ago. Specialty Bibles, such as study and journaling editions, and digital platforms like Bible Gateway are driving this growth. Research also shows increased Bible engagement, with 61% of Protestant churchgoers reading Scripture weekly, up from 36% in 2007. The renewed interest presents an opportunity for churches to foster Bible literacy and discipleship. (Baptist Press)
U.S. Churches Report Surge in Adult Baptisms Mar. 23: Churches across the U.S. are experiencing a surge in adult baptisms. Southern Baptist churches alone reported over 250,000 baptisms in 2024 — a 10% increase from 2023 and the fourth consecutive year of growth. The revival is largely driven by Gen Z, with movements like Unite US sparking spiritual awakenings on college campuses such as Auburn and UCF. Experts attribute the trend to a generational hunger for truth and structure amid societal challenges. (RELEVANT)
Sistine Chapel Hosts Concert on Biblical Angels Mar. 22: The Sistine Chapel hosted a rare concert debuting Angels Unawares, a 70-minute oratorio by composer Sir James MacMillan. Inspired by biblical encounters with angels, the piece features texts by the late Robert Willis and was performed by The Sixteen choir and Britten Sinfonia orchestra, surrounded by Michelangelo’s vivid frescoes. Commissioned by the Genesis Foundation, the concert was attended by international dignitaries and recorded for BBC radio. (AP)
Monumental Statue of Jesus Installed in Lebanon Mar. 21: In Qaa, Lebanon, a monumental statue of Christ the Redeemer has reached a significant milestone with the installation of its head. Is inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer, the statue overlooks the Bekaa Valley near the Syrian border. Despite ongoing regional tensions and security challenges, the project continues uninterrupted, serving as a testament to the enduring faith of local Christian communities. (Aleteia)
RIP: Former SBC President Steve Gaines Mar. 21: Steve Gaines, former Bellevue Baptist Church pastor and Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) president (2016-2018), died age 68 after battling cancer. Born in Mississippi, Gaines earned degrees from Union University and Southwestern Seminary, pastoring churches in Texas, Alabama, and Tennessee, including nearly 20 years at Bellevue. He is survived by his wife, Donna, four children, and 18 grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on March 22, 2026. (Baptist Press and RNS)
Unprecedented Baptismal Site Unearthed in Galilee Mar. 20: Archaeologists at Hippos, a Byzantine-era site near the Sea of Galilee, have uncovered two unique baptismal halls, or photisteria, in a cathedral. The northern hall, the largest purpose-built baptismal space in Byzantine Palestine, featured flowing water, mosaics, and saint dedications. The southern hall, converted from a martyrion, contained still water and rare artifacts — including the largest reliquary ever found in the Holy Land. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
“Bibles for Iran” Campaign Sent Funds to Other Organizations Mar. 20: A recent “Bibles for Iran” campaign by Cubinero Inc. serves as a reminder for donors to vet nonprofits before donating. The campaign linked donations to a PayPal account but did not disclose that funds would be sent to other organizations like Vision Beyond Borders and Galcom USA for Bible distribution. After inquiries from MinistryWatch, Cubinero updated its website to direct donors to these highly rated organizations. (MinistryWatch)
New Miniseries Humanizes Women of the Bible Mar. 19: The Fox Nation miniseries The Faithful highlights the lives of women in the Bible, offering a humanized and relatable portrayal of their struggles and faith journeys. Created by René Echevarria and Julie Weitz, the show combines biblical accuracy with psychological realism and explores themes of trust, divine encounters, and complex relationships. Reviewers praise the show for its high production value and thoughtful storytelling. (Christianity Today)
Cuban Pastor Arrested After Posting YouTube Bible Lesson Mar. 18: Pastor Rolando Pérez Lora was arrested in Cuba shortly after uploading a Bible lesson to YouTube from a public park in Matanzas. The park, one of the few places with public Wi-Fi, was often used by the pastor for his ministry. Although released after a few hours, Pastor Pérez Lora reported ongoing government harassment of his ministry. Advocacy group CSW condemned the arrest and urged Cuban authorities to cease targeting religious leaders. (Christian Today)
Award-Winning Film Presents the Gospel in Five Minutes Mar. 18: The Swiss short film The Life presents the gospel in five minutes without words, using a first-person perspective to depict a journey through birth, love, conflict, and a life-changing decision. The film transcends language and culture, making it ideal for global evangelism and digital sharing, much like the Oscar-nominated short Forevergreen (see Mar. 10, below). Since its release, The Life has garnered over 100,000 views and won 24 international awards. (Evangelical Focus)
Judge Halts Arkansas Schools’ Ten Commandments Displays Mar. 17: A federal judge has struck down an Arkansas law requiring public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms, deeming it unconstitutional. The ruling is part of an ongoing debate over religion in schools, with similar legal battles in Louisiana and Texas. Critics argue such mandates violate the separation of church and state, while supporters argue the Ten Commandments hold historical significance. Arkansas officials plan to appeal the ruling. (AP)
Study Highlights Evangelism Gap Between Desire and Action Mar. 17: A new study reveals that although 60% of U.S. Protestant churchgoers express eagerness to share Jesus with diverse groups, over a quarter (27%) haven’t done so in six months, and less than half (48%) intentionally build relationships with non-Christians for evangelism. The findings emphasize the need for intentional disciple making and relationship building to fulfill the Great Commission effectively. (Lifeway Research)
Israeli Jews and Christians Becoming More Religious Mar. 17: Many Israelis are turning to faith amid ongoing conflict. A November poll found that 27% of Jewish Israelis have become more religious since the war with Hamas began, with one-third praying more frequently and 20% reading Jewish Scriptures more often. Messianic Jewish communities like Jews for Jesus are also reporting a rise in Bible study interest and professions of faith, while Christian pastors note a steady stream of baptisms. (Christianity Today)
Infamous “Wicked Bible” on Display at Yale Library Mar. 16: A Yale exhibition exploring the history of typos includes the infamous 1631 “Wicked Bible,” which mistakenly printed the Seventh Commandment as “Thou shalt commit adultery.” This error led to major fines and the destruction of most copies. The exhibit, featuring artifacts like mislabeled maps, errata sheets, and a “corrected” version of Copernicus’s On the Revolutions, runs at Yale’s Sterling Memorial Library through November 2026. (Smithsonian Magazine)
New Bible Translation Brings Gospel to South Indian Converts Mar. 16: In Rajasthan, India, the translation of the Bible into the Hadoti language has brought Scripture closer to millions of speakers. Initiated by a South Indian missionary in 2011, the project faced various challenges, including opposition from Hindu nationalist groups. But the translators persisted, gathering community feedback for careful adaptation. For many, hearing the Bible in their mother tongue has deepened their faith and connection to God. (Christianity Today)
Report Suggests Young Canadians Open to Faith Mar. 16: A report by Cardus and the Canadian Bible Society suggests that young Canadians (ages 18–34) are showing increased openness to religion, despite low overall religious affiliation in the country. Titled Faith Restored?, the study highlights that nearly half of young adults interested in learning about the Bible frequently use Scripture and attend church. The report parallels similar findings in the UK and U.S. (Christian Daily)
Incoming Anglican Archbishop Undertakes Historic Pilgrimage Mar. 16: Dame Sarah Mullally, the incoming Archbishop of Canterbury, will embark on a historic six-day pilgrimage from London to Canterbury ahead of her installation on March 25 — the first of its kind by a new archbishop in centuries. Covering 140km, the journey follows ancient routes and includes stops at major cathedrals, shrines, and schools — helping prepare Mullally for her role as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury. (Christian Today)
New Comedy Series Offers Fresh Take on Exodus Mar. 15: The Promised Land, a comedic series streaming on Angel Studios and YouTube, reimagines Moses’ desert wanderings in the style of The Office. With documentary-style interviews and humorous takes on biblical events, the show portrays Moses, Aaron, and Miriam as relatable, flawed characters. While it raises concerns about oversimplifying biblical narratives, the series is praised for enhancing Bible literacy in an accessible and family-friendly format. (Aleteia)
Overwhelming Majority of U.S. Adults Believe in Afterlife Mar. 14: Belief in the afterlife remains strong among Americans across all religious groups (except atheists), with 88% affirming people have souls. While 55% affirm both heaven and hell, 29% reject both, and 14% believe only in heaven. Belief in the afterlife is higher among older generations but shows a slight resurgence among younger adults. Church attendance correlates with stronger belief in hell, especially among Catholics. (Religion Unplugged)
RIP: Gospel-Centered Civil Rights Leader John M. Perkins Mar. 13: Civil rights leader, Bible teacher, and theologian John M. Perkins died age 95. Born in 1930 in segregated Mississippi, Perkins endured profound personal loss but embraced the gospel. He founded the Christian Community Development Association based on his “old-fashioned reading of the Bible” and championed the “3 Rs” — relocation, reconciliation, and redistribution — to address racism and poverty. His writings, including Let Justice Roll Down, inspired generations of Christians to integrate faith with social action. (Various sources)
Lost Fragments of the Cross Found in Argentina Mar. 13: Fragments of the Holy Cross, lost since a 1944 earthquake in San Juan, Argentina, have been rediscovered in a school chapel. Originally donated to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in 1908, the relics consist of two wooden splinters arranged in a cross and housed in a reliquary. Certified as authentic by the Vatican, the relics will be returned to the cathedral during Lent and will be displayed during Good Friday processions. (Aleteia)
Rural U.S. and European Churches Partner to Share Gospel Mar. 13: Missionary Steve Brown has launched a partnership connecting rural churches in the U.S. with those in Europe to spread the gospel in underserved areas. Churches in Wyoming and Oklahoma are already engaging with communities in Spain and Slovakia through vision tours, youth rallies, and Bible studies. Brown emphasizes long-term relationships and mutual encouragement between U.S. and European churches to foster effective ministry and discipleship. (Baptist Press)
Gospel-Centered Short Film Nominated for Oscar Mar. 13: The Oscar-nominated animated short film Forevergreen tells a gospel-inspired story of grace and redemption. The film follows an orphaned bear saved by a sacrificial evergreen tree, symbolizing Christ’s love. Created with innovative animation techniques, the film reflects the directors’ faith and desire to glorify God through art. They hope Forevergreen inspires viewers to reflect on God’s grace and the universal need for redemption. (The Gospel Coalition)
Rick Warren Urges Unified Effort to Bring the Gospel to Everyone Mar. 12: Pastor Rick Warren is calling for global church unity to achieve the goal of sharing the gospel with every person by 2033, the 2,000th anniversary of Jesus’ resurrection. Speaking to evangelical leaders, Warren urged churches to work together through local and global partnerships across denominations and cultures. He emphasized practical collaboration over symbolic gestures, encouraging the use of technology to reach diverse populations. (Christian Daily)
Hidden Detail Found in Tilma of Guadalupe Mar. 12: Researchers examining the Tilma of Guadalupe, a revered religious artifact believed to bear a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary, have discovered what appears to be 13 tiny human figures reflected in the eyes of the image. These figures, visible only through digital magnification, are thought to represent witnesses present when the tilma was revealed in the 16th century. Despite extensive scientific studies, the artifact’s creation and preservation remain unexplained. (New York Post)
Hundreds of Christian Leaders to Read Bible Live in April Mar. 11: From April 18-25, nearly 500 Christian leaders, including pastors, politicians, and authors, will read the Bible aloud from cover to cover at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. Organized by activist Bunni Pounds, the event aims to inspire Americans to engage with Scripture and awaken what she calls an “apathetic church.” The event, costing $2.5 million, will be livestreamed and seeks to encourage Bible reading and discipleship across the nation. (RNS)
Iranian Christians See Growth Despite Conflict Mar. 11: Iranian Christians face severe persecution under the Islamic regime, yet conversions to Christianity are increasing. Some leading evangelists see this conflict as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Others avoid assigning it biblical relevance, simply viewing it as a chance for freedom — though some fear the conflict could harm Christianity by associating it with foreign influence. Christians and other religious minorities comprise a small but vital 0.3% of Iran’s total population. (Baptist Press)
UK Bible Sales Continued Growth in 2025 Mar. 11: Bible sales in the UK grew by 19% in 2025, reaching £6.3 million, according to NielsenIQ BookData, continuing their significant rise from £3.6 million in 2019. SPCK, a Christian publisher, noted this trend aligns with a broader spiritual hunger among Gen Z, as people seek meaning and stability in a changing world. The surge in Bible sales coincides with (contested) reports of increased church attendance and spiritual exploration in the UK. (Christian Today)
Giant Baby Jesus Statue Touring Mexico Mar. 10: A 16-foot Baby Jesus statue visited Mexico City’s Tepito neighborhood as part of a traveling project promoting peace and family values. Created in 2013 by Mexican artist Abraham Gómez, the statue has toured communities affected by violence, offering a message of hope. In Tepito, known for both its vibrant culture and longstanding problems with crime, residents gathered for prayers, offerings, and Mass. (AP)
Thousands Respond to Gospel Message in Peru Mar. 10: The “Esperanza Lima” festival in Peru’s National Stadium drew over 90,000 attendees, with thousands responding to Franklin Graham’s Gospel message about forgiveness and new life in Christ. The event featured Christian artists and united over 2,300 churches in support. Graham shared the parable of the prodigal son, emphasizing God’s mercy for those who return to Him. Many attendees moved forward to pray and express repentance. (Christian Daily)
Southern Baptist Convention Sees Record Growth in Puerto Rico Mar. 10: The Convention of Southern Baptist Churches in Puerto Rico celebrated significant milestones at its 2026 annual meeting in San Juan, including record baptisms and the reopening of the Seminario Teológico Bautista de Puerto Rico in partnership with Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Six new churches joined the convention, 20 international missionaries were commissioned, and the prison discipleship program baptized 32 inmates (Baptist Press)
Ukrainian Bible Society Distributes 1,000 Bibles Daily Mar. 9: The Ukrainian Bible Society (UBS) has distributed 1.6 million Bibles since Russia’s invasion, averaging nearly 1,000 daily. UBS focuses on long-term emotional, psychological, and spiritual resilience, providing adults with Bibles and devotionals for trauma and grief, while expanding access to children’s resources to cope with instability. UBS’s trauma-healing ministry has trained 6,380 participants through 114 nationwide sessions, with plans to reach 16,000 more in 2026. (Christian Daily)
Resurgence of Church Planting in North America Mar. 9: Church planting in North America is experiencing a resurgence after a decline in the 2010s. Networks like Acts 29 and Send Network report significant growth in church-planting pipelines, with a shift toward well-supported teams and structured training. The movement now emphasizes accountability, assessment, and community over the lone-planter model of the past, with a focus on reaching diverse and unchurched populations. (The Gospel Coalition)
Historian Discovers Galileo’s Handwritten Psalm 145 Missed from February: Historian Ivan Malara discovered Galileo Galilei’s handwritten notes in a 16th-century copy of Ptolemy’s influential geocentric astronomy text. The notes also include a transcribed Psalm 145, aligning with accounts of Galileo praying before his research — and challenging portrayals of him being primarily driven by philosophy or politics. The discovery offers new insights into Galileo’s intellectual journey and his pivotal role in the scientific revolution. (Science)
Vatican Celebrates Growing Global Numbers Mar. 7: The Vatican noted a surprising global increase in young Catholics, with significantly increased catechumenate participation in France, the Netherlands, Australia, and some dioceses in the U.S. Experts attribute this revival to a renewed search for faith among youth in secularized societies. Countries like Ireland, Germany, and Indonesia also see rising Catholic engagement, signaling what some call a “new springtime” for the Church. (Aleteia)
New Discoveries Shed Light on Exodus Commandments Mar. 6: Archaeologists in Turkey uncovered rare Bronze Age textile fragments (2000–1200 BC), revealing advanced techniques like Nålbinding (single-needle knitting) and the earliest known blue-dyed fabric in Anatolia. These finds illuminate the economic and technological landscape of the ancient Near East and provide context for biblical references to dyed fabrics, such as blue threads in priestly garments (Exodus 28:31–35) and tabernacle curtains (Exodus 26:1). (Biblical Archaeology Society)
Study Finds No U.S. Surge in Biblical Worldview Mar. 6: A survey by Arizona Christian University’s Cultural Research Center found no significant rise in biblical worldview among Americans following the shocking assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in 2025. Only 4% of surveyed adults hold a biblical worldview, unchanged since 2023, despite past levels of 12% in 1994. Researcher George Barna highlighted the urgent need for intentional discipleship to counteract the cultural erosion of biblical thinking. (Christian Daily)
Episcopal Leaders Optimistic Despite Declining Numbers Mar. 6: At the Episcopal Parish Network’s annual conference in Charlotte, N.C., Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe rejected claims of the Episcopal Church’s decline as “a lie from the pit of hell.” Despite membership halving since the 1960s, leaders expressed optimism about the church’s future. Speakers emphasized the importance of moral clarity, faith-driven public witness, and engaging younger generations to address declining attendance and aging demographics. (RNS)
GAFCON Elects Council Instead of Leader Mar. 6: GAFCON unexpectedly opted for a conciliar structure instead of a central leader, electing Archbishop Laurent Mbanda of Rwanda as chairman alongside other officers, serving until 2028. The movement seeks to return Anglicanism to Reformation principles while avoiding direct conflict with Canterbury. However, some African bishops oppose GAFCON’s distancing from the traditional Instruments of Communion, urging unity through dialogue and collective discernment of God’s will. (RNS and Christian Today)
Unprecedented Updates of Spanish-Language Lewis Classics Mar. 5: Grupo Nelson has released updated editions of C.S. Lewis classics Mere Christianity and The Screwtape Letters for Latin American readers. These editions aim to make Lewis’s profound theological insights more accessible by modernizing language while preserving his original message. The relaunch seeks to inspire new generations across Latin America to engage with Lewis’s timeless wisdom. (Christian Daily)
What Were Synagogues Like in the Time of Jesus and Paul? Mar. 4: Recent research into ancient synagogues reveals how Jewish communities experienced these sacred spaces through their senses. Beyond architectural studies, scholars now explore the use of light, sound, and scent in synagogues. Artifacts like menorahs, oil lamps, and incense burners suggest that illumination and aromatics played a significant role in creating a sense of holiness, enhancing worship as both a physical and spiritual experience. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
Prayer Booklet Gaining Traction With Skeptics Worldwide Mar. 4: The trypraying booklet, a seven-day prayer guide designed for non-Christians, is gaining traction worldwide, with endorsements from figures like Bear Grylls. Available in 12 countries, including recent launches in South Africa, Germany, and Ukraine, the booklet invites skeptics to explore prayer in a simple, approachable way, with relatable testimonies and straightforward prayers such as, “God, if you’re there, I want to know you.” (Christian Today)
New Biblical Video Game Lets You Slay Genesis-Era Giants Mar. 3: Ever wondered what it might be like to be a giant-slaying leper in biblical times? Wonder no more, thanks to The Abased, a new Bible-inspired fantasy action video game from indie developed CALYXIR. Players take on the role of Elyhias, a leper and fallen “faith enforcer,” tasked with confronting resurgent giants threatening civilization in a pre-Flood world. The game is listed on Steam for Windows PC, but a release date is yet to be announced. (RELEVANT)
Two Major Biblical TV Projects Announced Mar. 3: The Chosen Season 6 will premiere on Prime Video this fall, focusing on the final days of Jesus’ life, with a theatrical finale planned for spring 2027. Creator Dallas Jenkins also teased future projects, including a series on the apostle Paul. Meanwhile, Zachary Levi will host David: King of Israel, a four-episode docudrama on Fox Nation. The series blends historical context with dramatized reenactments, exploring David’s complex story of faith, failure, and redemption. (RELEVANT)
Contested UK “Quiet Revival” Study to Be Repeated Mar. 2: YouGov will repeat its controversial “Quiet Revival” study, which previously suggested a rise in church attendance among young adults in England and Wales. The 2025 report claimed monthly church attendance among 18–24-year-olds increased from 4% in 2018 to 16% in 2024, drawing excitement from church leaders. But some sociologists argued the findings conflict with long-term data. The new version hopes to clarify whether the revival is real or overstated. (Christian Today)
U.S. Foreign Missions Confront a Changing World Mar. 2: U.S. Protestant foreign missions are undergoing significant changes, with denominational agencies like the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) scaling back or closing, citing financial challenges and the rise of indigenous churches and their own missionary ventures in the Global South. Nondenominational agencies and evangelical organizations, however, continue to grow their missions and church planting efforts in collaboration with local faith groups. (MinistryWatch)
Israeli Researchers Solve 100-Year-Old Mystery Mar 1: Israeli researchers from Tel Aviv University have solved the mystery of cone-shaped clay vessels, known as cornets, found nearly 100 years ago near the Dead Sea. The cornets, dating to 4,700–3,800 BC, were likely used as candles during ceremonial processions before being ritually smashed and buried in sacred pits. Chemical analysis revealed beeswax residue inside the cornets, while pierced legs served as handles for balanced suspension. (Jerusalem Post)
Iranian Christians Express Mixed Emotions Amid Attacks Mar. 1: Iranian Christians, both within the country and abroad, are navigating a mix of fear, hope, and joy following the U.S.-Israel strikes. Many see this as a potential turning point for freedom and justice in Iran, while others express concern over the uncertainty and suffering caused by the conflict. Supported by diaspora communities and churches worldwide, long-persecuted Iranian Christians are praying for a future of religious freedom and peace. (Various sources)
Digital Tech Brings Welsh Bible to Wider Audience Mar. 1: Digital technology is revolutionizing access to the Welsh Bible for modern audiences. Initiatives like beibl.net offer a translation in everyday spoken Welsh, while the ap Beibl app provides free mobile access, and digitization projects have preserved historic translations like the Beible William Morgan on Bible Gateway. Audio versions, including recordings of the New Testament and regional accents, cater to younger, tech-savvy users. (Christian Today)
Catch Up on February’s Bible News Stories Mar. 1: Don’t forget to catch up on all the biggest, strangest, and most inspiring Bible news stories of February 2026!
