Good news and the persecuted church, from around the world

SermonWave World News

Thursday, October 29, 2026 Updated 1:23 AM Central Time 559 stories

Illustrative photo: Maria Hilf Kapelle SK
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Maria Hilf Kapelle SK · Simon Koopmann / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0
Good news

EDN calls for disability leadership in European churches

Protestante Digital Albania

The European Disability Network advocated for meaningful inclusion at Hope for Europe 2026 in Golem, Albania. Representatives from Germany, Spain, Belgium, Estonia, Ukraine, and Zambia argued that churches must move beyond basic care to grant people with disabilities decision-making power and leadership roles. Martina Köninger emphasized that assistance alone is insufficient. The group highlighted that one in six people globally has a disability, urging communities to remove social barriers and stigma. The network stressed that true inclusion requires recognizing the capabilities of all individuals within the Christian mission.

Translated from Español

Illustrative photo: A group of people visits a chapel
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Regarn Hope on Unsplash
Good news

Unreached People Groups Discussed at Stavanger Conference

Dagen (Norway) Norway

Hundreds of Christians gathered last weekend at the IMI church in Stavanger, Norway, for the Unåddkonferansen. The event featured guest Paul Ai from Vietnam. Organizers stated that approximately 3.4 billion people are considered unreached, meaning they have never had a real opportunity to hear the message that Jesus Christ offers eternal life. According to Joshua Project data, these individuals possess unique value and are loved by God. The conference emphasized the biblical call for all people to be saved and know the truth, highlighting the global scope of the mission to reach these populations.

Translated from Norsk

Good news

Rooted in Holmes program launches to boost food security in Florida

wjhg.com United States

United Way of Northwest Florida and CrossPoint Church have launched the Rooted in Holmes program in Ponce de Leon, Florida, to address high poverty rates in Holmes County. Funded by a Florida Blue Foundation grant, the initiative provides monthly food distributions and establishes a community garden to subsidize supplies. Pastor Michael Tadlock and CEO Gina Littleton state the program also teaches budgeting and agricultural skills to support workforce development. The first distribution in September served 411 residents, with a goal to increase food security by 40% over four years. The effort aims to help working families struggling to make ends meet.

Persecuted church

Syria Protests to Jordan Over Civilian Deaths in Daraa

antaranews.com Syria

A nation summoned a neighboring country’s ambassador to protest airstrikes that killed civilians in a southern region. The attacking nation claims the operation occurred without its consent, resulting in seven deaths, including children. The defending nation states the strikes targeted militant positions in retaliation for a church attack in a specific area. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the two nations regarding cross-border military actions and civilian safety in the region.

Translated from Bahasa Indonesia

Persecuted church

Jordanian newspaper condemns attack on Christian church in Karak

ammonnews.net Jordan

A Jordanian newspaper published an editorial addressing the assault at a church in a city in Jordan. The outlet argues that Jordanian Christians are full citizens, not foreigners or extensions of Western powers. The article calls for a serious confrontation with extremist ideologies that justify violence based on religion. It demands transparent investigations, strict application of the law against perpetrators and inciters, and a rejection of discrimination. The newspaper emphasizes that protecting citizens and places of worship is a state responsibility, urging institutions to address narratives that fuel exclusion and ensure equal rights for all Jordanians regardless of faith.

Translated from العربية

Illustrative photo: people sitting on chair during daytime
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Gracious Adebayo on Unsplash
Good news

Argentine Congress honors evangelical alliance on national day

laprensa.com.ar Argentina

The Argentine Chamber of Deputies honored the Christian Alliance of Churches of Argentina (Aciera) in Buenos Aires. The ceremony marked the upcoming National Day of Evangelical and Protestant Churches, officially recognized since 2024 by Law 27.741. Pastor Christian Hooft, president of Aciera, addressed lawmakers, citing 8 million adherents in Argentina. He emphasized democratic values, religious freedom, and the need to address challenges like artificial intelligence while protecting human dignity. Lawmakers from various parties attended the event held in the Hall of Lost Steps.

Translated from Español

Illustrative photo: The City of Jos Plateau State
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · The City of Jos Plateau State · Martemmedia / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
Persecuted church

Gunmen kill farmer and injure pastor in Plateau State attack

dailytrust.com Nigeria

Gunmen attacked a farm in a village in northern Nigeria, killing a farmer and injuring a pastor. Another man remains missing. A community member confirmed the incident to journalists in a nearby city, condemning the violence and urging security agencies to investigate and protect residents. The Plateau State Police Command spokesperson did not respond to inquiries. The attack highlights ongoing security challenges in the region, where Christians face severe persecution. This incident underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures for believers and local residents in this volatile area.

Persecuted church

Man arrested after three suspicious fires hit Napier buildings

RNZ Pacific New Zealand

Police in Napier, New Zealand, arrested a 47-year-old man following three suspicious fires on Monday morning. The incidents began around 12:50 am with a blaze on Raffles Street, followed by significant damage to St Paul's Presbyterian Church on Tennyson Street. A third fire occurred in a Market Street alleyway. The suspect was identified via CCTV and faces charges of wilfully setting fire and arson. While the church co-minister Mark Johnston reported extensive structural damage, no injuries were reported. The man has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in Napier District Court on 18 November. Police continue to investigate the remaining two scenes.

Persecuted church

King visits victims after church attack in southern Jordan

aawsat.com Jordan

Following a terrorist attack on a church in a village in southern Jordan, the King visited the injured. The monarch, wearing a military uniform, met with victims to offer support and reaffirm the state's resolve to protect national stability. The article highlights the importance of combating terrorism through strong leadership and societal unity, drawing parallels with historical challenges in Yemen. It emphasizes that maintaining security and respecting religious diversity are essential for preserving the integrity of stable nations against extremist threats.

Translated from العربية

Persecuted church

Report Alleges State Complicity in Abductions of Syrian Minority Women

slguardian.org Syria

A recent report by the International Institute for Religious Freedom alleges that Syria’s interim government obstructs investigations into the abduction of Alawite women and girls. The study cites numerous cases of sectarian targeting and sexual violence since late 2024. It claims security forces suppressed evidence and detained survivors. While the Syrian Interior Ministry dismissed most allegations as non-criminal, Amnesty International and UN experts expressed concern over police inaction. The report urges impartial investigations to determine responsibility for the abuses in western and central Syria.

Illustrative photo: woman in yellow and white floral dress wearing gold crown
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Bob Brewer on Unsplash
Good news

Papua New Guinea Minister Funds Rebuilding of Historic St Kilamu Church

thenational.com.pg Papua New Guinea

Jason Peter, Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion, pledged K50,000 to rebuild the historic St Kilamu Parish in Labu-Butu. He officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the new structure, which has served the community since 1952. Peter also donated K5,000 to Betany Lutheran Church in West Taraka for its thanksgiving celebration. The Huon Gulf District Development Authority previously supported that project with materials. Peter emphasized that churches provide essential spiritual guidance, family support, and community unity. The new buildings aim to serve current and future generations in both locations.

Illustrative photo: St. Catherine Church - Book (2463854189)
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · St. Catherine Church - Book (2463854189) · Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
Good news and persecution

US Church News: Ministry, Leadership, and Social Media Trends

The Christian Post United States

Several developments in US Christianity were highlighted recently. An evangelistic ministry founded by an automotive industry icon is helping Generation Z Christians share their faith on social media. Meanwhile, James Meeks, founding pastor of Salem Baptist Church in Chicago, retired after 38 years, handing leadership to Pastor Charlie Dates. The Good News Club continues expanding in US schools. A global conference on theology and pastoral training attracted 500 participants from over 80 countries. Additionally, Covenant Eyes acknowledged concerns about its accountability software being used to monitor churchgoers, and Barna Group head advised youth ministries to involve young people as participants rather than consumers in the Gospel mission.

Persecuted church

Indonesian Creator Arrested for Blasphemy After Economic Frustration

beritasatu.com Indonesia

Police in Medan, Indonesia, arrested content creator Ritman Marbun for allegedly insulting Jesus during a TikTok live stream. Authorities state the motive stemmed from unresolved economic difficulties and a loss of online influence. The incident, recorded by viewers, sparked outrage among Christians. Marbun was detained at his home in Medan Selayang and charged under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law and the Criminal Code. He faces over five years in prison. The suspect previously posted an apology video, citing personal struggles and a loss of control during the broadcast. Police seized his phone and clothing as evidence.

Translated from Bahasa Indonesia

Good news and persecution

Russian Church Grows Amidst New Restrictions on Foreign Ministries

e-n.org.uk Russia

Christian communities in Russia are expanding despite intensified government pressure. The General Prosecutor’s Office recently declared that foreign entities, including Christian ministries, threaten national security. Consequently, groups such as the American Child Evangelism Fellowship and Mission Eurasia were designated as undesirable organizations. This regulatory shift aims to curb external religious influence, yet reports indicate that local church growth continues regardless of these hostile measures and legal blacklisting efforts. (68 words)

Good news

Birdflip recruits young women to campaign against Australian abortion laws

The Catholic Weekly Australia

Birdflip, a pro-life movement established in Australia in February 2025 by law professor Joanna Howe, is recruiting and training young women to campaign against abortion. Director Jessica Meney and team members Pieta Winkels and Anna Harrison explain that their faith and personal experiences drive their opposition to the practice. The group uses social media, street interviews, and podcasts to challenge prevailing narratives and advocate for the protection of human life. According to the organization, it currently has 20 ambassadors across the country and plans to expand its network in 2027. The team is also organizing the 2026 National Life Summit on the Gold Coast.

Good news and persecution

Christian Forum Offers to Mediate Government and Farmer Talks

Christian Today India India

A Christian organization in Arunachal Pradesh has contacted the state Chief Minister, offering to mediate between the government and local indigenous farmers. The group addressed tensions surrounding a proposed major hydroelectric dam project. While remaining neutral on the infrastructure development, the organization seeks to facilitate dialogue to preserve social harmony and address concerns of the local community. They urged authorities to engage in peaceful consultation with stakeholders to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region, aiming to protect community relations amidst the development dispute.

Persecuted church

Vatican postpones Nicaraguan bishops' visit due to political conditions

ACI Prensa Nicaragua

The Holy See has delayed the ad limina visit of bishops from Nicaragua until next year, citing insufficient conditions. A senior church leader confirmed the postponement. This quinquennial visit allows clergy to report directly to Rome. Currently, several bishops reside in exile due to government persecution. Anonymous clergy and analysts warn that permitting the remaining bishops to travel could result in them being barred from returning, leaving the local church without leadership. The Vatican Press Office has not yet responded to inquiries regarding this significant decision affecting the region's religious community.

Translated from Español

Good news

Canção Nova Mission Month Highlights Work in São Paulo

Cancao Nova Noticias Brazil

Canção Nova has released a special report on its missionary activities in São Paulo, Brazil. The outlet identifies the São Paulo mission as the community's second-largest missionary front, following the work in Cachoeira Paulista. The report, produced by Aline Imercio and Leandro Iarussi, details the operations of the group in the capital city. This coverage serves to highlight the organization's reach and efforts within the region during the designated Mission Month.

Translated from Português

Persecuted church

West Bengal Christians Allegedly Forced Into Hindu Rituals After Mob Attack

Christian Today India India

Three Christian families in a village in West Bengal allege that a mob attacked them and forced participation in Hindu rituals during a major festival. Police registered a case against thirteen suspects, including alleged members of a right-wing Hindu group, but no arrests have been made. The victims report threats of rape and death if they did not renounce Christianity. Authorities have now provided security, though investigations continue. Christian groups cite this as part of a rising pattern of violence against the minority community in the state.

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