April 29 A growing number of young Christians are embracing intentional singleness in their 20s, viewing it as a purposeful choice rather than a waiting period for marriage. Inspired by Biblical teachings like 1 Corinthians 7, they see singleness as an opportunity for undistracted devotion to God and personal growth. This shift challenges church norms, which often prioritize marriage and families, and urges churches to meet and honor singles where they are. (RELEVANT)
April 28 Bishop T.D. Jakes announced his plan to step down as senior pastor of The Potter’s House, a 30,000-member Dallas megachurch, later this year. His daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Touré Roberts, will succeed him as senior co-pastors in July. Jakes cited health concerns, including a recent heart attack, and emphasized the importance of fresh leadership. He will remain as chairman of the board. (Christianity Today)
April 28 The conclave to select the 267th Pope, previously set for May 5, is now scheduled to begin May 7. Approximately 180 cardinals, including over 100 electors, will gather in the Sistine Chapel. The process begins with a solemn Mass and oath of secrecy. A two-thirds majority is required to elect the new Pope, which can take anywhere from a few days to several months or, very rarely, even years. (Vatican News)
April 26 Pope Francis’s funeral in St. Peter’s Square drew 400,000 mourners, including clergy, pilgrims, refugees, and global leaders. The late pontiff, celebrated for his compassion and advocacy for peace, was eulogized as “a pope among the people.” His tomb was inscribed only with “Franciscus,” an unusually simple burial reflecting his humility. The conclave to elect his successor is set to begin on May 5. (The Guardian and Religion Unplugged)
April 25 In the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China, Bibles and other religious books have been exempted from tariffs, providing relief to Christian publishers (and readers). China, a major hub for Bible printing, produces over 75% of new Bibles globally, with Amity Printing Company leading the industry. While the exemption ensures affordability and accessibility of Bibles, the industry remains cautious amid broader economic uncertainties. (Christianity Today)
April 25 The Upper Room in Jerusalem, traditionally associated with Jesus’ Last Supper, has a rich history as a pilgrimage site. Recent archaeological studies using advanced imaging techniques have uncovered over 40 medieval inscriptions and graffiti on its walls. These include coats of arms, inscriptions from European pilgrims, and an Armenian inscription tied to the Mongol conquest of the Levant in 1299. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
April 24 Up against the ropes: An article about whether Jesus was crucified using nails or ropes (see April 14, below) caused a stir for implicitly questioning the Bible’s inerrancy, since Thomas asks to see Jesus’ nail marks in John 20:25. The article’s author apologized for his oversight. Acclaimed writer Karen Swallow Prior, while affirming the literal truth of Scripture, adds that Christians have reexamined the scant details of the Bible for centuries in both poor and fruitful ways. (Christianity Today and RNS)
April 23 Pastor and bestselling author Max Lucado got his first tattoo at age 70. Lucado had the Greek word tetelestai, meaning “it is finished,” tattooed on his right forearm to commemorate 50 years of experiencing God’s grace. Reflecting on his transformation from a troubled past, Lucado shared how the message of Christ’s sacrifice changed his life. (Christian Today)
April 22 Nearly 200 Christians were killed in Nigeria within a single week, with attacks targeting Christian-majority villages, including a massacre in Zikke village that claimed 56 lives. Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah condemned the violence, describing it as an “ocean of blood” and criticizing the government’s failure to address extremist violence by groups like Boko Haram and Fulani militants. (Aleteia)
April 22 Alabama became the latest U.S. state to have passed bills requiring public schools to display the Ten Commandments in common areas, following Oklahoma and Louisiana’s initiatives last year. The bill is now headed to Alabama’s state senate for approval. Even if it passes, though, legal disputes are likely: Louisiana’s mandate was ruled unconstitutional by a federal court in November. (Christianity Daily)
April 22 China has implemented strict restrictions on foreign missionaries, banning unauthorized preaching, religious schools, and literature distribution. Foreign clergy can only preach government-approved content, and unregistered religious activities are heavily monitored using advanced surveillance technology. These measures align with the government’s goal of aligning religions with Communist Party priorities. (Christianity Daily)
April 21 Pope Francis has died age 88, the day after making a brief Easter appearance in St. Peter’s Square. The first Jesuit and first Latin American pope, Francis was known for his humility and progressive reforms, focusing on poverty, inequality, and environmental issues during his 12-year papacy. Political and religious leaders from every corner of the globe have turned out to pay tribute. A papal conclave is expected to convene within 15-20 days to appoint his successor. (The Guardian)
April 20 Over 8,200 UK churches are leading the way in creation care, creating green spaces, wildlife habitats, and sustainable practices. Initiatives include bee-friendly habitats, wildflower meadows, and community events. A Rocha U.K.’s eco-award system has given churches 2,800 bronze, 1,200 silver, and 70 gold awards. With 40,000 worshipping communities in the UK, churches hold “colossal potential” to spearhead environmental action. (Religion Unplugged)
April 20 HAPPY EASTER! Christ is risen. He is risen indeed!
April 18 NASA’s astronomical models suggest a lunar eclipse occurred on April 3, 33 AD, potentially aligning with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This eclipse, which turned the moon red, matches biblical descriptions such as Matthew 27:45, which mentions darkness coming “over all the land during.” Originated by Oxford researchers in the 1980s, they theory connects the event to prophetic passages like Acts 2:20 and Joel 2:28-31. (New York Post)
April 17 Archaeology helps construct a biography of Caiaphas, the High Priest who played a key role in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. Appointed by Roman governor Valerius Gratus in 18 AD, Caiaphas served until 37 AD, when he was deposed by Lucius Vitellius. Two ornate ossuaries inscribed with the names of Caiaphas, his children, and grandchildren affirm his historical existence and suggest an influential presence in first-century Jerusalem. (Bible Archaeology Report)
April 16 U.S. churches interpret Good Friday in many ways. Many mainline and progressive Christians reject John Calvin’s “penal substitution” theory, which sees Jesus’ death as a punishment for human sin, emphasizing liberation and moral inspiration instead. But Calvin’s idea is central to many Easter traditions, and many say it is more about God’s love than his vengeance. Meanwhile, Orthodox churches don’t consider the cross in such “forensic” terms at all, while Catholics embrace a combination of theories. (RNS)
April 16 Research from various outlets indicates Easter is recognized by 95% of U.S. adults, with 79% planning to celebrate it in 2025. Two-thirds (66%) believe in the biblical account of Jesus’ resurrection, though many fail to grasp its theological significance for their lives, presenting an opportunity for pastors to help churchgoers understand not just that the resurrection happened, but the difference it makes in the world. (Lifeway Research)
April 16 In Nicaragua, Holy Week is proving far less joyous than usual, marked by government surveillance and repression under the Ortega regime. Public processions are banned, churches are monitored, and clergy face restrictions, with many exiled or silenced. Yet despite the risks and challenges, Cardinal Leopoldo Brenes preaches forgiveness and hope, emphasizing faith’s resilience. (Aleteia)
April 15 In Uganda, the Way of the Cross unites Catholics, Anglicans, and Orthodox Christians in a reenactment of Jesus’ Holy Week journey to Calvary. Organized by the Uganda Joint Christian Council, the processions symbolize Christ’s sacrifice and promote unity, faith, and national reflection amidst Uganda’s social and political challenges. This year’s rare alignment of the Easter date provides additional significance to the celebrations. (Religion Unplugged)
April 15 This year, Christians of all denominations will celebrate Easter (or Pascha as it’s known in Orthodox churches) on the same day, a rare alignment of the Julian and Gregorian calendars. This coincides with the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, which established key Christian doctrines and sought unsuccessfully to unify the date of Easter. Churches Together in England (CTE) issued a statement celebrating the occasion. (Christian Today)
April 14 We know taxes were as reviled in Jesus’ time as in our own — but a new discovery shows how far some would go to avoid them. A recently analyzed papyrus discovered in the Judean desert details a Roman tax-evasion trial involving two men accused of forgery, fiscal fraud, and sham slave sales. It also sheds light on the sophisticated, extensive Roman tax system. The trial’s outcome is unknown; penalties ranged from fines to execution. (The New York Times, paywalled)
April 14 “The mark where the ropes have been?” Though nails have long been a focus of Christian imagery, Bible scholar Jeffrey P. Arroyo García notes that the Gospels do not specify their use in the crucifixion. Whether by ropes or nails, crucifixion was a common and incredibly painful punishment in the Roman Empire, causing slow death by asphyxiation. Above all, García says, he hopes to encourage closer reading of the Gospel texts. (Christianity Today)
April 13 Yesterday was Palm Sunday, the day that kicks off Holy Week (the most important week in the Christian calendar, and indeed all of history) with Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey. See pictures of over 2.3 billion Christians celebrating the holiday worldwide, in places as diverse as Ukraine and Russia, Jerusalem and Gaza, India and Pakistan, Nigeria and Congo, and many more — united in worship despite hardship and division on earth. (The Guardian)
April 13 Amid widespread warnings about the dangers of AI, one developer has a very different prediction. At the Missional AI 2025 summit in Texas, Google DeepMind’s Richard Zhang suggested AI could deepen understanding of God and point to Jesus even as it “blur[s] the lines between humanity, robots, and God.” The event also showcased AI’s role in Bible translation by reducing “drudgery” and aiding mission work in difficult regions. (Christianity Daily)
April 11 A workshop in Ethiopia is preserving the ancient Christian tradition of manuscript creation. Using goat skin parchment, bamboo pens, and inks made from natural materials, artisans meticulously handwrite sacred texts, often taking months or years, before sending them on for use in churches and monasteries. The process, rooted in methods dating back 2000 years, now incorporates both ancient and modern styles. (The Guardian)
April 11 Spirituality in the UK is experiencing a “quiet revival,” with churches reporting increased attendance, conversions, and baptisms, particularly among Gen Z. A recent Bible Society report highlights a rise in churchgoing Christians from 8% to 12% of the population since 2018, especially in Catholic and Pentecostal congregations. This report partially attributes the changes to a post-COVID search for hope and meaning. (The Gospel Coalition)
April 10 The American Bible Society began releasing its annual State of the Bible report exploring U.S. Bible trends and perceptions across a range of demographics. Among Chapter 1’s highlights: Bible use is up 29% among Millennials and 19% among men over last year, and two-thirds of Bible readers access the Bible digitally through apps and websites like Bible Gateway. New chapters release monthly, so stay tuned for more! (American Bible Society)
April 10 The Jesus Film Project, a ministry of Cru, has reached its 2,200th translation with the release of the film in the Bouna dialect of the Kulango language, spoken in Côte d’Ivoire. Begun in 1979, the project’s mission is to make the story of Jesus accessible worldwide, especially to communities with limited literacy. Through collaborations with local voice actors, churches, and volunteers, it has become the most translated film ever. (Christian Daily)
April 10 Thousands of Christians are expected to gather in Mexico City for the 30th annual March for Jesus on April 19. The event, featuring dances, floats, concerts, and evangelism, reflects a growing spiritual openness in Mexico. Originally led by Dr. Carlos Quiroa and now overseen by his son Pablo, the march aims to bring hope and unity amidst the country’s ongoing challenges, including violence and human rights issues. (Christian Daily)
April 10 A study by Christian jewelry maker My Cross identified the top U.S. city for Christian engagement, with surprising results: New York City scored a perfect 100 (which does raise some methodology questions). Though only 57% of its residents identify as Christian, the city boasts nearly 9,000 Christian nonprofits, the highest in the nation, and ranks second in church density. (Religion Unplugged)
April 9 The Korean Bible Society held a dedication service for the New Korean Bible, a modern translation aimed at the next generation of Korean Christians. Completed after 13 years of work by 36 scholars and linguists, it balances faithfulness to the original texts with contemporary Korean language. At the service, Rev. Woonsung Kim emphasized the church’s mission to proclaim and embody biblical teachings in daily life. (Christian Daily)
April 9 The 2025 Zenger Prizes honored exceptional journalism rooted in on-the-ground reporting and a biblical ethic. Winners included Amitabh Parashar (BBC) for a story on saving baby girls in India, Miriam Jordan (NYT) for aiding Afghan women in California, and McKay Coppins (The Atlantic) for insights on Trump rally prayers. Other publications receiving awards included Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today, and more. (Religion Unplugged)
April 8 A third-century Christian hymn, discovered on ancient papyrus, has been revived as “The First Hymn” for modern worship. The hymn, notable for its early Trinitarian theology, was reimagined with contemporary music by John Dickson of Wheaton College working alongside Grammy-winning songwriters Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding. The song will receive global release on April 11 with a documentary debuting April 14. (Baptist Press)
April 8 Chalk it up to Jesus: A group of 70 Christian students from Western Kentucky University (WKU) participated in a unique initiative to spread the Gospel by chalking the entire Gospel of John — 879 verses — across their campus sidewalks. The event, part of the growing “Gospel Chalk Movement,” was a joint effort by several campus ministries aiming to share the message of hope and faith amidst global uncertainty. (Aleteia)
April 8 A recent study found that 99% of U.S. Protestant churches use at least one of 11 methods to welcome guests. Popular approaches include greeters at entrances, meeting the pastor after services, and visitor cards. Larger and smaller churches use different methods, while ethnicity and pastor age also factor in. Practices like information sessions and guest recognition have declined, partly due to COVID changes. (Lifeway Research)
April 7 Recent Barna research reveals a significant rise in belief in Jesus among U.S. adults, now at 66% — up 12 percentage points since 2021. This growth is driven by Gen Z and Millennials, particularly young men. Critically, many new followers of Jesus do not identify as Christian, reflecting a trend of spiritual openness without church affiliation (likely influencing other studies of religious demographics). (Barna)
April 7 Researchers from a group called Noah’s Ark Scans are investigating a 538-foot-long geological formation in eastern Turkey resembling the dimensions of Noah’s Ark described in Genesis. Initial findings using soil tests, radar scans, and other non-invasive methods seem promising, but require further analysis. The team may consider excavation if evidence supports their theories, while prioritizing preservation of the site. (New York Post)
April 4 A pyramidal structure was found on a hilltop in the Judean Desert overlooking the Dead Sea. Originally dated to the First Temple period, it has been redated to the Hellenistic era (332–37 BC) based on coins and other well-preserved artifacts discovered at the site, such as papyrus fragments, weapons, and fabrics. Built with massive hand-hewn stones, its purpose remains uncertain — possibly a guard tower, grave, or monument. (Biblical Archaeology Society)
April 4 The Word for Word Bible Comic, created by British illustrator Simon Amadeus Pillario, transforms the Bible into a graphic novel series aimed at adults and older teens. It includes every word of scripture (NIV), while relying on careful research to depict settings, characters, and events authentically. The comics address mature themes, making them unsuitable for children but accessible to those who find traditional Bibles intimidating. (Religion Unplugged)
April 3 Following two devastating earthquakes in Myanmar, a coalition of evangelical alliances are hosting a global online prayer event on April 5 at 8:30am ET. The earthquakes have killed over 3,000 people, injured thousands, and left many missing. Relief efforts are hindered by damaged roads and power outages. The prayer event aims to support survivors, emergency responders, and relief organizations during the crisis. (Christian Daily)
April 3 How biblically accurate was Season 1 of House of David? Covering 1 Samuel 15–17, it focused on Saul’s rejection, David’s anointing, and Goliath’s defeat. It adds subplots inspired by tradition and context but not addressed in the Bible, such as David’s family dynamics, Saul’s monogamy, and Goliath’s origins. While some elements align with scripture and history, others, like Saul’s son Eshbaal seizing the throne, are fictional. (Christianity Today)
April 3 The 169-foot-tall Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer is set to begin construction this summer near Birmingham, UK. Inspired by the Möbius strip, the infinity-loop structure will feature 1 million white bricks, each digitally linked to a story of answered prayer from both ordinary individuals and historical figures. Initially delayed due to rising costs and design challenges, the project is now on track to open in autumn 2027. (Christianity Daily)
April 2 Due to high demand, the annual Priestly Blessing in Jerusalem will be held twice this Passover, featuring released hostages, their families, and wounded soldiers, with live online broadcasts planned. The Western Wall Heritage Foundation removed tens of thousands of prayer notes for ritual burial ahead of the ceremony. Many others were submitted online, even from citizens of countries hostile to Israel, expressing hopes for peace. (Israel Nation News)
April 1 Also not April Fools (or the plot of the next Mummy movie): A three-year-old girl discovered a 3,800-year-old Canaanite scarab amulet at the biblical site where David is said to have battled Goliath. The scarab will be displayed in a special exhibit by the Israel Antiquities Authority in Jerusalem (hopefully without inadvertently awakening any ancient magic, armies of the undead, etc.). (Times of Israel)
April 1 Not April Fools: A shocking study by the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University found that only 11% of Americans believe in the Trinity, with slightly higher rates among self-identified Christians (16%) and born-again Christians (24%). Meanwhile, only 53% of Christians “believe that God exists and affects people’s lives.” The findings suggest a decline in Biblical literacy and understanding of core Christian doctrines. (Christianity Daily)
April 1 The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) is seeking a new secretary general to unite its 600 million members, following Thomas Schirrmacher’s resignation last year. The WEA has faced criticism from groups in Korea and Europe over theological concerns and its association with Catholicism. The new leader, expected to be announced in October, will need to address these divisions and foster global unity while upholding evangelical values. (Christianity Today)
April 1 Neuroscience suggests humans are “hardwired” for faith. Prayer and worship light up multiple brain regions tied to empathy, focus, and emotional regulation. Spending 30 minutes in prayer, four days a week, has been shown to reduce stress and increase compassion. Not all prayer is equal, though: love-centered prayers have the biggest impact, while fear-based views of God trigger stress responses. (RELEVANT)
April 1 Baptist groups are redoubling efforts to spread the Gospel globally through humanitarian aid. The Baptist World Alliance’s “Stand in the Gap” initiative is raising funds for urgent needs in areas like DR Congo and Myanmar. Meanwhile, Southern Baptists’ Send Relief responded to a deadly earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand, providing food, water, and shelter to thousands. Both organizations call for donations and prayer. (Baptist Press and Christian Daily)
March 31 A survey by Fusion and Savanta found that just 29% of Christian students (and 12% of non-Christian ones) in the UK read the Bible weekly, though often only through social media snippets. Half of all students believe the Bible is relevant today. Despite these mixed opinions, many are curious about the Bible, and Fusion says there is a huge opportunity to foster spiritual transformation through greater Scriptural engagement. (Premier)
March 30 The little-known Bible story of Zelophehad’s daughters (Numbers 27:1-11) might be the oldest recorded women’s rights campaign. Five sisters successfully petitioned Moses to inherit their father’s property after his death without a male heir. Their case led to a change in Mosaic law and set a precedent that has influenced theological and political debates for millennia, including royal succession in England and Scotland. (Christian Today)
March 30 Booming Bible sales in the UK and (gradual, tepid) church growth in the U.S. New takes on science vs. faith and St. Patrick vs. snakes. Pope Francis, home from the hospital, and Butch Wilmore, home from space, both credited Jesus with sustaining them. Church renewal conferences were held in Africa, Korea, Europe — just about everywhere … and a guy whose blood saved 2.4 million unborn babies. Revisit the biggest, strangest, and most inspiring Bible and church news stories of March!
