Prayer & Worship

A second Protestant church leader, Iván García, was tragically assassinated in Colombia last week after leading a church service, highlighting a growing wave of violence against Christian leaders in the country. The attack underscores the alarming rise in religious persecution in Colombia, where violations of religious freedom and death threats against faith leaders have surged significantly in recent years.

Arthur Blessitt, a trailblazing evangelist known for carrying a 12-foot wooden cross to over 300 countries and territories, passed away at 84 on Jan. 14. Recognized by Guinness World Records for the “longest ongoing pilgrimage,” Blessitt walked 86 million steps over 40,000 miles, sharing the gospel worldwide since 1969. In his self-written obituary, he celebrated his journey of faith, urging others to continue spreading the message of Jesus.

Joyce Meyer Ministries and XO Marriage founder Jimmy Evans have announced their departure from Daystar Television Network following allegations of child abuse and a purported cover-up involving the network’s leadership. Citing a commitment to truth and sensitivity to those affected, Joyce Meyer’s CEO, Dan Meyer, stated the decision was necessary amid growing concerns from partners and viewers. Evans, facing backlash over his support for Daystar co-founder Joni Lamb, also revealed plans to focus on his Bible prophecy ministry, endtimes.com, full-time in 2025. Their departures follow similar exits by other prominent Christian figures as the scandal continues to unfold.

The Vatican has approved guidelines allowing individuals with same-sex attraction to pursue the priesthood in Italy, provided they embrace celibacy, as outlined in a document by the Italian Episcopal Conference and the Dicastery for the Clergy. While emphasizing respect and accompaniment for those with homosexual tendencies, Pope Francis has also urged caution in admitting such candidates to seminaries, reflecting ongoing tensions within Church teachings and practices.

Three Ohio State football stars, TreVeyon Henderson, Emeka Egbuka, and Gee Scott Jr., are boldly sharing how their Christian faith has transformed their lives, providing peace, joy, and purpose beyond the game. Speaking with Sports Spectrum, they recounted personal testimonies of faith, a campus revival marked by 60 baptisms, and their commitment to using football as a platform to glorify Christ, emphasizing that only Jesus offers true fulfillment.