Church

Asia Bibi's possible release from jail seen boosting hopes of Christians in Pakistan
The possible release of a Christian woman who has been in prison for posing the question "My Christ died for me, what did Muhammed do for you?" could be a "watershed moment" for Christians charged falsely of blasphemy, said a watchdog group.

Boycott polio vaccine, say Kenya's Catholic bishops
Kenya's Catholic bishops have urged a boycott of a polio vaccination programme over fears regarding its safety.

Five ways to stop the post-festival crash
After a great time away, how do you avoid a post-festival low? Martin Saunders has some tips.

Sudanese pastors facing execution make final plea for justice; verdict set on Aug. 5
The lawyers for the two South Sudanese pastors facing death penalty for allegedly spying for a human rights group concluded their case.

Hysterical reaction to the gay scout leaders decision is a terrible witness
The decision by the Boy Scouts of America to allow gay people to lead its groups has been criticised by conservatives.

Young Syrians marry in the ruins of church in devastated city of Homs
The church of St George posted pictures of their wedding on its Facebook page.

Pope Francis sees Christian 'genocide' as persecution affects 200 million Christians
The increasing persecution against Christians around the world has reached a point leading Pope Francis and other groups to start calling the problem a "genocide."

Soul Survivor proves the Church has a pulse
Rumours of the Christian faith's demise among the young may have been greatly exaggerated. At least, that's the impression you draw from a visit to Soul Survivor, writes Martin Saunders.

US Bishop comes out years after voting no to gay clergy, 'I was a coward'
In 2009, Evangelical Lutheran bishop Kevin Kanouse voted against his church's decision to affirm same-sex marriage. Six years later, he has come out as gay himself, and says he was too afraid until now to reveal his "true nature".

Ukraine: Russian Patriarch plays intricate political game in letter to Putin and Poroshenko
"Blood is being shed and people are being killed in Ukraine," said Patriarch Kirill.

Biblical name confirmed by inscription on 3,000-year-old jar
The large ceramic jar was found to be inscribed with the name Eshbaal ben Beda.

Viral pastor Dewey Smith does not support same-sex marriage, church says
A pastor who's sermon on hypocrisy in the church went viral last week says his words have been taken out of context and he is not in favour of same-sex marriage.
Antarctica is losing its only Catholic priest
Staff cutbacks and declining attendances mean that Roman Catholics will no longer serve the Chapel.

Mark Driscoll confirms move to Phoenix, sparks speculation about new church venture
He says ministry "remains a calling and desire, but my plan is not to rush into anything".

Oklahoma's Ten Commandments monument must go, says court in blow to conservatives
Its location violates the state constitution's ban on the use of state property for the benefit of religion.

Homosexuality: Can a single YouTube sermon change conservative minds?
Dewey Smith blasts those who judge and condemn gay people for their hypocrisy.