Activist Faith

I recently shared the story of Asia Bibi, a 45-year old Pakistani woman and mother condemned to death for her Christian beliefs. An international outcry resulted, calling for Asia’s release, including a plea from the pope. The good news: Monday’s Guardian announced Asia Bibi’s newly-declared innocence! This is a tremendous change of direction based on…

In 2001, America began a “War on Terror” to avenge the attack of al-Qaeda forces on American soil. Nine years later, troops remain in Afghanistan with plans in place to “transition” leadership to local security forces. Many argue the battle is not done until Bin Laden is brought to justice. Others are ready to end…

Mother Teresa has said, “Let us touch the dying, the poor, the lonely and the unwanted according to the graces we have received and let us not be ashamed or slow to do the humble work.” My friend Dan King experienced this during a recent trip to Haiti. His reflections are shared for you below.…

My friend Robby’s life is a powerful story. Being raised in a religious home, Robby knew of God but never had a relationship with Him. After graduating from William Carey College, he moved back to New Orleans to start his own business. During this time, he began learning Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and took a bouncer job…

Recent news headlines continue to note persecution of Christians in Iraq. In fact, one Iraqi Christian woman interviewed by CNN this week shared, “We only have God,” said the woman, who lost a family member in the church attack. “God is the only one watching over us.” This disturbing persecution of Christians draws our attention…

World Vision, the global Christian humanitarian behemoth, has turned micro. Microfinance that is. Microfinance, for those unaware, is the concept of providing a small loan (as low as $25 US) to help a person in the developing world start a sustainable business. When that loan is repaid, the person can borrow a larger amount to…

I mentioned last Sunday that open Christianity is illegal or restricted in 51 countries of the world. This morning, I was told about Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian was has been given a death sentence for sharing her Christian faith. Thousands are petitioning her release, including the Pope. I encourage you to join in. Why?…

While many companies have moved toward “Happy Holidays” and away from “Merry Christmas” during this time of year, my local Starbucks barista politely offered me a cup of their Christmas Blend this morning. This may not seem like a big deal, but I could list an entire page of companies that have removed the word…

Last January, I had the opportunity to serve in Haiti 17 days after the January 12th earthquake that killed an estimated 200,000+ people. The team I assisted helped in shipping food and water aid, moving patients at our make-shift hospital inside an elementary school building, and invested time with children in the local orphanage. The…

I am illegal in 51 nations. That’s because there are currently 51 countries where Christian missionary activity is either completely illegal or restricted. That’s about 1 in 4 countries worldwide. Today is also the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. I don’t have the answer to creating broader religious freedom in many parts…

More from Beliefnet and our partners