Norway: Religious extremism condemned
In the aftermath of attacks last July that killed 77 and were carried out by a self-described ‘cultural Christian,’ Norwegian Christians and Muslims on Nov. 22 jointly condemned religious extremism as ‘contrary to the teachings of our religions.’ Stating, ‘Religious extremists put themselves in the place of God and believe that they are fighting on behalf of God against the enemies of God. Religious extremism is therefore contrary to the teachings of our religions, especially with respect to the basic dignity and rights of all human beings,’ according to a news release. The statement said that religious extremism is part of the global reality, but notes it threatens the life, welfare, and rights of human beings in many local situations.
Pray: for more religious leaders to publicly adopt a balanced stance stand against religious extremism. (Pr.29:26)
Greece: Greeks are turning to their faith.
Greece's economy is in dire shape, and both the country's leaders and residents face an uphill battle to escape what could become a five-year recession. Recent economic reports revealed that the recession was deeper than originally thought. And with news like that splashed across national headlines, many Greeks have turned to religion for some kind of relief. ‘The church is the last resort for everyone. Even more so when people have problems,’ said church goer Stelios Papayoannou. ‘It is human nature to forget God in good times and remember him in hard times.’ Greek worshipper Maria Libery added ‘With faith people can overcome all difficulties. This is why we flock here, to church.’ She continued ‘Times are hard everywhere. Church can bring relief to our soul and make us feel that there is something outside of this life. I believe this is why we go to church.’
Pray: for all those facing hardship due to the economic situation to find an answer in Christ. (Ps.62:8)
More: http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2011/November/Greeks-Attend-Church-as-Economic-Uncertainty-Grows-/
Greece: Greeks are turning to their faith.
Greece's economy is in dire shape, and both the country's leaders and residents face an uphill battle to escape what could become a five-year recession. Recent economic reports revealed that the recession was deeper than originally thought. And with news like that splashed across national headlines, many Greeks have turned to religion for some kind of relief. ‘The church is the last resort for everyone. Even more so when people have problems,’ said church goer Stelios Papayoannou. ‘It is human nature to forget God in good times and remember him in hard times.’ Greek worshipper Maria Libery added ‘With faith people can overcome all difficulties. This is why we flock here, to church.’ She continued ‘Times are hard everywhere. Church can bring relief to our soul and make us feel that there is something outside of this life. I believe this is why we go to church.’
Pray: for all those facing hardship due to the economic situation to find an answer in Christ. (Ps.62:8)
More: http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2011/November/Greeks-Attend-Church-as-Economic-Uncertainty-Grows-/
Christians still feel marginalised - report
A new report out from Premier Christian Media warns of a ‘strong bias’ against Christians in British public life. The media group’s report is based upon consecutive polls it has commissioned in recent years to gauge perceptions among Christians and non-Christians. Feelings of marginalisation were found to be particularly strong amongst Christians. In a 2008 survey of 500 Christians, 73% said they felt Christians were being unfairly marginalised in British society. That was followed by a C-Panel poll the following year which found that 66% of Christians felt there was greater negative discrimination towards Christians than other faiths. Although non-Christians were far less likely to agree that Christians were being marginalised, poll results revealed a sympathetic general public. Premier noted perceptions of ‘favouritism’ towards Muslims in particular and a bias towards homosexual lobby groups.
Pray: against the ongoing marginalisation of our faith in all levels of society. (Pr.10:11)
More: http://www.christiantoday.com/article/christians.still.feel.marginalised.report/28872.htm
