Stop going to church, Philippines president tells his people

Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte has urged people to stop going to church and said they could build their own chapels instead.

Duterte has faced fierce criticism from Catholic bishops over his 'war on drugs', which has seen thousands murdered in apparent extra-judicial killings. Police say they all died in gang shoot-outs.

Yesterday he caused further outrage when he said he would set up a 'Duterte Death Squad' to kill members of the Maoist New People's Army.

He has previously said 'God is stupid'. 

According to UCA News, Duterte said of bishops who had criticised his no-quarter drugs policy: 'You don't have to go to church to pay for these idiots.'

He has accused Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, who has criticised drug-related killings, of giving church donations to his own family, saying in a November 22 speech: 'You, David, you be quiet. You go on asking for contributions... Where does the people's money go?'

He said: 'You know, the truth is, I tell you, the offerings, the pineapple, avocado, bananas, where do they go? You want to know? I will show you. [They go] To his family.

'The fool just keeps on asking – there is even a second collection.'

Duterte said he thought David might be taking drugs himself, to which the bishop replied on Facebook: 'No sir, I'm not into drugs of any sort, whether legal of illegal. Never been.'

News
The little-known prayers written by Jane Austen
The little-known prayers written by Jane Austen

It is now 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen whose books and their many screen adaptations are beloved around the world. Not many people know that she was a devout Christian who also wrote devotional prayers. This is the story …

The Anglican worldview of Jane Austen’s life and novels
The Anglican worldview of Jane Austen’s life and novels

16 December 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of novelist Jane Austen, who was born in southern England in 1775. Her novels are steeped in biblical analogy and practical theology. This is the story…

Almost half of UK adults plan to attend church this Christmas, new poll finds
Almost half of UK adults plan to attend church this Christmas, new poll finds

Churches across the UK are expecting fuller pews this Christmas, as new research suggests a significant rise in the number of people planning to attend services and church-run events over the festive season.

ACNA panel recommends archbishop stand trial
ACNA panel recommends archbishop stand trial

The Board of Inquiry issued a short statement on Friday stating that there was “probable cause to present” ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood “for trial for violation of Canon 2 of this Title.”