“Conditions for religious freedom in Russia and former Soviet republics are still better than they were during the communist period, but “compared to 10 years ago, it’s much more difficult and restrictive.” During the Christmas season 20 years ago, regimes and realms were making news that still resonates two decades later: The United States was... Continue Reading

While the new law does not mention advance care planning, the Obama administration has been able to achieve its policy goal through the regulation-writing process, a strategy that could become more prevalent in the next two years as the president deals with a strengthened Republican opposition in Congress. When a proposal to encourage end-of-life planning... Continue Reading

Christmas 2010 is a whole lotta jingle and not so much Jesus. Two new surveys find more than nine in 10 Americans celebrate the holiday — even if they’re atheists, agnostics or believers in non-Christian faiths such as Judaism and Islam. A closer look at Christmas activities reveals what may be the first measurement of... Continue Reading

It’s mildly entertaining, but nonetheless welcome, to see media talking heads debate what Jesus would do in politics. On Hardball with Chris Matthews, Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Wash., recently scolded Christians for celebrating Jesus at Christmastime while opposing an extension of unemployment insurance benefits for another year: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036697/vp/38333035#38333035 Bill O’Reilly took him to task in a... Continue Reading

“The other side is winning the war on words and the rhetoric,” said Tom McClusky, senior vice president of Family Research Council Action, the legislative arm of the conservative advocacy group. “Generationally, this is an uphill battle for us, and we realize that.” The Republican senator from North Carolina was blunt. “Because she’s a damn... Continue Reading

“Tourism is one of the main sources of income for the future Palestinian state and for Palestinians now, and we are doing our best to utilize this opportunity.” People in the West Bank may be suffering but Christmas remains a time of joy and celebration for Christians in and around Bethlehem, says one leader. According... Continue Reading

The City Council of Mission, Kansas – a suburb of Kansas City between Shawnee and Overland Park – adopted an ordinance back in August of this year that is causing controversy now. The Ordinance, No.1332 was established to enact a “Transportation Utility Fee.” In other words, all property under the jurisdiction of the city that... Continue Reading

The questions they are asking are many: Will chaplains be allowed to preach on what the Bible says about homosexuality without being accused of hate speech? Will conservative denominations pull their endorsement of chaplains? Retired Navy chaplain Mark Jumper of Illinois has spent the last several days poring over emails from other military chaplains across... Continue Reading

John McCain criticized the action, saying: “We are trying to jam major issues through the Senate of the United States. The American people have spoken and you are acting in repudiation of the message of the American people. The majority is using the lame duck session to push an agenda.” The Senate on Saturday first... Continue Reading

An evangelical professor launched a petition calling on the Pakistani government to change blasphemy laws and release Asia Bibi, the first woman sentenced to death under the laws. Warren Throckmorton, a professor at the Christian institution Grove City College and a psychology and public policy fellow of its Center for Vision and Values, started the... Continue Reading