August 29 A monumental 2,800-year-old dam has been uncovered in Jerusalem’s City of David, dating back to the reigns of kings Joash and Amaziah. The largest dam found in ancient Israel, it was part of a sophisticated system — built to manage water shortages and flash floods — that also included the Siloam Channel and Hezekiah’s Tunnel. The discovery reshapes understanding of the city’s infrastructure during the Iron Age, suggesting advanced planning and resource management. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
August 28 The American Bible Society has issued grants to four Christian universities to engage Gen Z with the Bible through innovative projects. An AI-powered “Bible Engagement Assistant” is being developed at Los Angeles Pacific University, and a YouTube series, “Beyond the Bible,” at MidAmerica Nazarene University. These projects aim to make Scripture more accessible and relatable, while others, like Lectio Divina at Houghton University, focus on fostering deeper, personal interactions with Scripture. (RNS)
August 28 Many American Bible colleges are closing due to declining enrollment, financial challenges, and shifting priorities among Christian families, with Multnomah among the latest to go up for sale. These institutions have shaped leaders in ministry, education, and various professions for decades, helping keep Scripture at the center of daily life. While the future of Christian higher education remains uncertain, its impact endures through alumni who carry forward the values and training they received. (Christianity Today)
August 27 A tragic shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during a Mass attended by nearly 200 children. The shooter fired through the church windows, killing two children and injuring 17 others, before dying by suicide. The FBI is investigating the incident as an anti-Catholic hate crime and act of domestic terrorism. The community held a vigil attended by clergy, officials, and mourners, with Archbishop Bernard Hebda lamenting how such violence could occur in a sacred space. (AP News)
August 27 At Pastor John MacArthur’s memorial service on August 23, his son Matt shared his father’s final words: “Be faithful.” MacArthur, who died last month at 86, was remembered for his unwavering faith, even in his final days. In his final moments, he expressed assurance in salvation, quoting 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 and adding, “Grace has overpowered my sinful heart.” (Christianity Daily)
August 27 More than 8,000 Christians participated in the March for Jesus in Belfast, Northern Ireland on August 23. The peaceful, celebratory event included prayers, worship, and testimonies at City Hall. Organized by Rev. John Ahern, the march aimed to publicly exalt Christ, address societal issues like addiction and prejudice, and foster unity among Christians despite differences. A similar march is planned in Dublin on September 27. (Christian Daily)
August 26 PSA: If your pastor sends a personal email asking for money, check with the church office before you comply. Email phishing scams are increasingly targeting churches, exploiting “high-trust, low-tech environments” by impersonating pastors or other trusted figures to request donations, gift cards, or sensitive data like passwords. Experts recommend churches hold trainings and implement cybersecurity measures like two-factor authentication to protect church systems and assets. (Religion Unplugged, from MinistryWatch)
August 25 NBA player Jonathan Isaac’s Judah 1 sneaker, featuring Proverbs 28:1, is now part of the Museum of the Bible’s “Impact of the Bible” exhibit. The shoe, from Isaac’s Christian brand Unitus, includes biblical imagery such as a lion’s mane representing the Lion of Judah. It’s the first NBA shoe to prominently display Scripture. (RNS)
August 25 New research reveals a surprising resurgence in church attendance, led by Millennials and Gen Z. This marks a shift from pre-pandemic trends, where older adults were more consistent attendees. Commitment to Jesus has also grown, with nearly 30 million more U.S. adults identifying as followers since 2021. Many younger individuals express spiritual openness, often separate from organized religion, presenting opportunities for churches to engage with authenticity and discipleship. (Barna)
August 25 The Manx Bible celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2025. First published in 1775 as “Yn Vible Casherick” as an effort to preserve the Manx Gaelic language and provide scripture in the native tongue of the Isle of Man, it was translated by local clergy under Bishop Thomas Wilson based on the King James Version and original texts. The Manx Bible was recently digitized and, although the Manx language has declined, is still used in language classes and occasional worship. (Christian Today)
August 23 Archaeologists on Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, uncovered a 1,400-year-old plaster cross, revealing a thriving Christian settlement during the 7th and 8th centuries AD. The cross, featuring regional motifs and a fingerprint on the back possibly left by its maker, suggests Christianity flourished alongside Islam and pagan traditions. The discovery highlights the Arabian Gulf’s forgotten role in Christianity’s eastward expansion and its history of peaceful religious coexistence. (Christian Today)
August 22 Speaking of currency (see below), a rare gold coin (one of only 20 known) of Queen Berenice II of Egypt (246–222 BC) was discovered in Jerusalem’s Givati Parking Lot excavations. Minted in Alexandria, the coin is 99.3% pure gold and features Berenice’s portrait and a cornucopia. The find challenges the prevailing view of Jerusalem as a small, poor city during the post-exile period, suggesting that it had already begun to grow in importance by the end of Persian rule. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
August 22 A University of Haifa study reveals that silver was used as currency in ancient Israel as early as the mid-Bronze Age (circa 1600 BC) and remained the primary currency until the end of the Iron Age (ca. 600 BC). Evidence of tampering with silver purity even suggests early attempts at forgery. The findings highlight a sophisticated monetary system in Israel predating its use in Egypt and Greece, and long before the invention of coins in the 7th century BC. (Times of Israel)
August 21 A survey of U.S. Protestant pastors found that while 52% are generally satisfied with discipleship in their churches, just 8% are strongly satisfied. Half have an intentional plan, but only 30% measure its effectiveness. Discipleship priorities vary, with 46% focusing on biblical knowledge and 38% on relationships. Most pastors (95%) believe discipleship happens best in relationships, such as Sunday School and small groups. Only 22% think virtual discipleship is as effective as in-person. (Lifeway Research)
August 21 A groundbreaking study identified four types of religiously unaffiliated Americans: Nones in Name Only (21%), who pray and believe in God but avoid organized religion; Spiritual but Not Religious (36%), who reject religion but embrace spirituality; The Dones (33%), who have fully disengaged from religion and spirituality; and Zealous Atheists (11%), who actively oppose religion. While “nones” have grown to 30% of the U.S. population, their diversity suggests some remain open to faith. (The Gospel Coalition)
August 21 James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family and a leading advocate for conservative Christian family values, died today, age 89. Dobson authored over 70 books, including Dare to Discipline and The Strong-Willed Child, and hosted a radio program reaching millions globally. Both respected and controversial, he emphasized strict-but-loving parenting and became a prominent voice in evangelical politics, advocating against abortion, pornography, and same-sex marriage. (Christianity Today and RNS)
August 20 A well-timed study from Duke University corroborates some of the findings from the State of the Bible (below), that online church services may be less effective than in-person worship in fostering feelings of transcendence, shared identity, and closeness to God. The study, involving 43 participants, found that in-person attendees reported higher emotional engagement and heart rate during services. While online worship remains beneficial, researchers note it doesn’t fully replicate the in-person experience. (RNS)
August 20 Though 64% of Americans identify as Christian, only 44% of them attend church at least once a month. Those with high Scripture engagement are also much more likely to be highly engaged at church (52% vs. 7% with low Scripture engagement) — as are those who attend in person (31%) over online attendees (19%). The study also found a clear correlation between higher church engagement and overall well-being, including lower stress, anxiety, and loneliness, and higher levels of hope. (State of the Bible)
August 19 Something good out of Nazareth? The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) has appointed Advocate Botrus Mansour as its first Arab Christian Secretary General. An Arab-Israeli of Palestinian heritage from Nazareth, Mansour will officially assume his role at the WEA General Assembly in Seoul this October. With a background in law and nonprofit management, Mansour has held leadership roles in evangelical organizations in Israel and the Holy Land. (Christianity Daily)
August 18 Pop quiz: What’s the only country in the world with the Bible on its national flag? If you answered the United States, Israel, or even the Vatican … you’d be wrong — it’s Dominican Republic. The flag features a central white cross and a coat of arms that includes an open Bible displaying John 8:32. Designed by Casimiro Nemesio de Moya in 1913, the coat of arms also includes a cross, spears, laurel and palm wreaths, and the national motto, “Dios, Patria y Libertad” (God, Homeland, and Freedom). (Aleteia)
August 18 Archaeologists in Israel have uncovered a 1,600-year-old mosaic at Hippos-Sussita near the Sea of Galilee, believed to be evidence of the region’s earliest nursing home. The Greek inscription, “Peace on the elders,” was found at the entrance of a public building, suggesting it served as a community and spiritual center for elderly care during the Byzantine period. (Jerusalem Post)
August 18 The Vatican will begin a three-month maintenance project on Michelangelo’s Last Judgment fresco in the Sistine Chapel in January 2026, concluding before Holy Week. The fresco, painted between 1536 and 1541, depicts Christ’s final judgment and draws nearly seven million visitors annually. These efforts address the challenges of mass tourism and climate change on historic art and architecture. (Aleteia)
August 17 A Lifeway Research study of 730 former pastors from four Protestant denominations found that 34% of pastors left ministry due to burnout (16%) or church conflict (18%). The leading reason for departure was a “change in calling” (40%). The study highlights challenges like COVID-19’s impact and the pressures of modern ministry. (The Christian Post)
August 15 In China, a quiet spiritual revival is unfolding through a Bible hand-copying initiative launched in 2019 to honor the centennial of the Chinese Union Version (CUV) Bible translation. Despite a call for just 1,200 participants, millions responded, including a calligrapher who became a Christian through the project and families reconnecting through shared Scripture. The movement continues to grow, even as it faces challenges like government scrutiny and financial strain. (Christianity Today)
August 15 Prime Video has greenlit Joseph of Egypt, an eight-episode limited series based on the biblical story of Joseph. The series stars Adam Hashmi (Bridgerton) as Joseph and features Alexander Siddig (Foundation) as Jacob and Babak Tafti (Succession) as Simeon. Dallas Jenkins, creator of The Chosen, serves as executive producer, with Craig Wright (Greenleaf, Lost) as writer and showrunner. No release date has been announced, but the series is currently filming in New Mexico. (RELEVANT)
August 15 A clay seal impression, or bulla, bearing the name “Yeda’yah son of Asayahu” was discovered during the Temple Mount Sifting Project. Dated to the late 7th or early 6th century BCE, the seal likely belonged to a high-ranking official, suggesting Yeda’yah’s father could be the same Asaiah, a biblical figure mentioned in 2 Kings 22:12 and 2 Chronicles 34:20. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
August 14 A wildfire near the Sea of Galilee has unveiled new archaeological insights into the ancient village of Bethsaida, believed to be the hometown of apostles Peter, Andrew, and Philip. The fire cleared vegetation in the Betiha Nature Reserve, exposing mounds and ruins at the el-Araj site, which archaeologists have been excavating since 2016. Previously, the site revealed a Byzantine church and Roman bathhouse, but the fire has now highlighted potential residential areas from the first century. (Haaretz)
August 14 A former fish market in Glasgow’s Merchant City has been transformed into a vibrant exhibition, “Glasgow Close Knit,” featuring 430 handknitted and crocheted blankets. Created by Church of Scotland members and local groups, the display highlights community creativity and compassion. Each blanket will be donated this winter to individuals in short-term housing. (Christianity Today)
August 13 Over 400 hostile acts against U.S. churches were documented in 2024, according to a Family Research Council report. These incidents included vandalism, arson, bomb threats, and physical assaults, with gun-related incidents doubling compared to previous years. After arson, anti-LGBT incidents such as theft of church pride flags were among the most common. Still, such incidents declined from 2023, as did abortion-related and satanic-themed incidents. (Christianity Daily)
August 12 Over 1,000 Iraqi Christians, mostly children, recently celebrated their first communion despite challenges from past persecution by ISIS and ongoing pressures from Iranian-backed militias. Ceremonies were held across Iraq, including Baghdad and the Nineveh Plains, with over 460 children participating in the town of Baghdeda alone. (The Christian Post)
August 12 The Vatican Apostolic Archive, established in 1612, safeguarded centuries of Church records once scattered and endangered by persecution, mob violence, and political turmoil. Early documents, dating to the first century, included baptismal data, papal letters, and theological rulings. In 1881, Pope Leo XIII opened the archive for scholarly research, transforming it into a secure and accessible resource for historical study. (Aleteia)
August 11 The Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer, a 51.5m (169 ft.) tall Christian monument under construction in England, has received over 100,000 answered prayer submissions for its digital archive. Designed as a Möbius strip of one million bricks, each brick will link to a prayer testimony accessible via a dedicated app. Organizers are aiming for 250,000 stories by its opening, and encourage Christians worldwide to contribute their testimonies. (Christian Daily)
August 10 This summer marks the 500th anniversary of the first printed English New Testament, translated by William Tyndale in 1525. His translation, based on Erasmus’s Greek New Testament, influenced the King James Bible and modern versions. Events in Antwerp, where Tyndale revised his work after fleeing England, include exhibits of rare 1526 New Testament copies and a letter from Tyndale’s imprisonment. (Christian Today)
August 10 Syria’s Christian population, once 2 million, has declined by over 85% since 2011, with fewer than 300,000 remaining. Christians are emigrating en masse due to economic collapse, forced conscription, and rising extremism. Most recently, a June 22 bombing at St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Damascus killed 22 and injured 60. Patriarch John X urges global attention to protect one of Christianity’s oldest communities from disappearing entirely. (Religion Unplugged)
August 10 Mission Eurasia’s Bible camps are helping 30,000 children across 14 countries, 80% of whom are Ukrainian children affected by war. Located in safer regions, the camps provide trauma counseling, Bible lessons, and recreational activities, while local church leaders and trained counselors ensure ongoing support for families after the camps. The initiative, part of Mission Eurasia’s “Summer of Hope,” aims to restore emotional stability and share the message of Jesus amid the ongoing conflict. (Christian Daily)
August 9 A Lifeway Research study found that 82% of U.S. Protestant churches supported local public schools in the past year, with most providing school supplies for students and teachers. Churches also volunteered for school events (41%), offered teacher appreciation gifts (38%), and assisted with tutoring programs (26%). Larger, Southern, mainline, and African American churches and pastors stood out for their support, while evangelical churches were more likely to conduct Bible clubs. (Religion Unplugged)
August 8 Archaeologists uncovered a carved ivory head, less than an inch tall, in Jerusalem’s City of David, dating to Iron Age II (1000–586 BC). The unusual artifact, likely used to decorate furniture, depicts a woman with an Egyptian-style wig and headband. Found in a seventh-century BC layer, it may predate Judah’s Assyrian vassalage, offering intriguing hints about early cultural and economic exchanges in the Near East. (Biblical Archaeology Review)
August 7 Militant Islamist groups in Africa have caused over 22,000 deaths in the past year alone, with Christians being primary targets. The Sahel region, Somalia, and the Lake Chad Basin account for 99% of fatalities, driven by groups like Al Shabaab and JNIM. Political instability and restricted media access exacerbate the violence, with militant groups controlling vast territories. (Christianity Daily)
August 6 Jewish sages in Late Antiquity actively engaged in the Roman-Byzantine wine industry, shaping halachic rulings to align with agricultural practices. A study from the University of Haifa revealed that vineyard spacing mandated by sages mirrored Classical-era vineyards in Italy and France. The researchers used rabbinic texts and archaeological evidence to highlight the sages’ practical knowledge of viticulture and their efforts to harmonize divine law with economic and environmental realities. (Jerusalem Post)
August 6 The U.S. leads the “Secular West” in Bible engagement, with 28% of Americans using the Bible weekly and 41% attending church monthly, surpassing other Western nations like Canada and Europe. Americans also show stronger trust in the Bible’s relevance and compatibility with science. Yet secularism is growing, and the study urges U.S. churches to leverage current openness to Scripture to counter the trend. (Lifeway Research)
August 6 Just because it sounds biblical, doesn’t mean it is biblical. Common phrases such as “God helps those who help themselves” and “God won’t give you more than you can handle” are not actually in the Bible. Popular sayings like these can misrepresent Scripture’s teachings on grace, suffering, and human nature. It’s always good practice to verify beliefs with the Bible, as the Bereans did to Paul in Acts 17, to avoid forming theology around unbiblical ideas. (RELEVANT)
August 6 Christian amulets inscribed with texts or images for protection or healing were very popular in late antiquity. These include small items like rings and pendants with brief inscriptions such as “Christ, help Andrews,” as well as larger parchment amulets featuring Gospel excerpts and Psalms. Yet despite their Christian elements, such amulets were often condemned by early church leaders for resembling pagan practices or Jewish tefillin. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
August 5 New research by Brazilian 3D designer Cicero Moraes once again challenges the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin, suggesting it is a “masterpiece of Christian art” rather than a genuine relic. Using digital recreations, Moraes found the shroud’s image aligns more closely with a low-relief sculpture than with a real human body. Moraes’ study adds fire to the ongoing debate, with critics citing medieval carbon dating and supporters pointing to Middle Eastern pollen and crucifixion-consistent blood samples. (Christian Today)
August 5 At the 20th Symposium of Episcopal Conferences in Africa and Madagascar, African Catholic leaders called for peace, reconciliation, and dialogue amid ongoing conflicts across the continent. Over 250 bishops and 13 cardinals, representing some 280 million African Catholics, emphasized forgiveness and unity, urging political leaders to prioritize the well-being of their people. The meeting also unveiled a 12-point vision plan for the church’s next 25 years, focusing on evangelization, self-reliance, and care for creation. (RNS)
August 5 In June, 200 Muslims attacked a Christian youth retreat in Sukabumi, Indonesia, claiming the private residence was unlawfully used for worship. The mob damaged property, destroyed vehicles, and traumatized the children present. Officials detained eight suspects and compensated the family for damages. But the incident highlights growing religious freedom challenges in Indonesia, where securing permits for worship spaces is difficult, and attacks on Christian gatherings are increasing. (Christianity Today)
August 3 The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) elected Rev. Yehiel Curry as its first African American presiding bishop during the 2025 Churchwide Assembly in Phoenix, Arizona. Curry, currently bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, will begin his six-year term in October, succeeding Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, the denomination’s first female presiding bishop. (Christianity Daily)
August 3 Pope Leo XIV concluded the Jubilee of Youth in Rome with a mass attended by over a million young Catholics from 146 countries. Dubbed a “Catholic Woodstock,” the week-long event featured music, prayer, and vibrant celebrations. In his homily, Pope Leo encouraged the youth to aspire to holiness and spread their faith, emphasizing peace and solidarity with those in war-torn regions like Gaza and Ukraine. (The Guardian)
August 3 Mourning victims of the tragedy in Texas; remembering John MacArthur; practicing the red heifer ceremony in Jerusalem. The latest archaeological discoveries in the Holy Land; Christian conferences in Europe and Asia; and research about the state of the Bible, faith, and Christianity around the globe. Plus, how the Bible uses nicknames to subtly add meaning to its stories. Catch up on the biggest, strangest, and most inspiring Bible and church news stories of July!
