Research published in the China Economic Review indicates that Christianity significantly boosts economic growth within China. Analysts examined provincial data, revealing a strong correlation between Christian institutions and regional prosperity. The authors suggest this stems from the institutional nature of Christian groups, which contribute via spending, salaries, and social networks. Despite comprising only a small fraction of the population, these institutions represent a substantial portion of religious organizations. The findings imply that recent government restrictions on Christianity may hinder economic stability. This work extends previous studies by economist Zhao Xiao on the role of churches in market economies, highlighting the complex relationship between faith communities and national development.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by dan wilding on UnsplashPersecuted church
Riots in France have included antisemitic attacks, with a Paris synagogue vandalized and Jewish shops torched in Marseille. Protests, initially sparked by student grievances, merged with other groups, displaying Palestinian symbols and chants. Reports indicate targeted violence against Jewish businesses, though local police in Marseille denied anti-Jewish motives. Community leaders condemned the acts as criminal delinquency. The unrest highlights rising tensions, as Jewish emigration to Israel reaches a decade-high pace amid a surge in anti-religious incidents across the country.
The UniteUS ministry held an evangelistic event at Appalachian State University in North Carolina, where organizers claim more than 700 students decided to follow Jesus. According to CBN News, approximately 100 of these individuals were baptized immediately following the gathering at the Holmes Convocation Center. Speakers Tonya Prewett and Jennie Allen addressed the crowd, and attendees described the experience as life-changing on social media. UniteUS states that its outreach has reached over two dozen campuses nationwide since September 2023, with future events scheduled for the University of South Alabama and Belmont University.
A kerosene stove accident in Papua, Indonesia, triggered a massive fire that destroyed 2,000 homes and left 5,000 people homeless. The blaze spread rapidly through squatter encampments built with second-hand wood during the first week of September. Although no casualties were reported because the incident occurred during the day, the victims lost all possessions. A local church responded by establishing a tent city and providing emergency supplies. The relief effort faced challenges due to the region's economic downturn and social tensions regarding migrant populations. The outlet reports that the church prioritized listening to the victims' stories while distributing aid.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Levi Meir Clancy on UnsplashGood news
Reports from Jerusalem indicate that ultra-Orthodox Jews are increasingly engaging with Messianic Jewish evangelists. Charles Gardner of God Reports notes that street outreach efforts have attracted attention from Haredi individuals, with some listeners taking notes and recognizing specific YouTube personalities. The article cites an estimated one million believers of Jewish descent globally. It also references historical figures like Johanna-Ruth Dobschiner to illustrate long-standing connections between Jewish people and Christianity, suggesting a current shift in interest despite traditional opposition to Christian teachings.
A missionary traveling through Ukraine during the fourth year of the Russian invasion reports that religious activities continue despite daily bombings. The author describes baptizing Australian volunteers in Kyiv and providing humanitarian aid in eastern regions like Kramatorsk. Ukrainian chaplains and police officers are assisting displaced civilians while facing drone strikes and destruction of their homes. The account highlights the resilience of the local population and the ongoing risks faced by aid workers and soldiers on the front lines. The group states they are delivering supplies and offering spiritual support to those under attack.
St. Anne’s Anglican Church in Toronto, Canada, was severely damaged by a fire on June 9, 2024, which destroyed its dome and roof. The building, a National Historic Site known for works by Group of Seven artists, has temporarily served as an art gallery. In 2026, the exhibition Where Walls Meet Sky allowed public access to the ruins. The congregation and preservation teams are currently working to save historic elements for future reconstruction, transforming the damaged site into a space for contemporary art and reflection.
Merlin Kraft of BibleLadUK organized a baptism event at Bigbury-on-Sea in Devon, UK, on September 5, 2026. The gathering drew 170 participants who were baptized in the sea, far exceeding initial expectations. Attendees traveled from across the UK and Ireland, including Scotland, Wales, and various English cities. Calvary Chapel Plymouth assisted with the event, providing a gospel message and literature. Kraft attributes the turnout to social media outreach, noting a growing interest in Jesus among people who may not typically attend church buildings. The event highlights a potential shift in how the gospel is reaching individuals in Britain.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Justin Lane on UnsplashGood news
Charles Gardner reviews Simon Guillebaud’s book Dangerously Alive, which details the missionary’s experiences in Burundi during the late 1990s civil war. Guillebaud worked for Scripture Union while dodging bullets and bombs in the Central African nation. The article notes that despite the violence, revival occurred, including miraculous healings and the conversion of a former rebel soldier who later became president. Gardner highlights Guillebaud’s perspective on spiritual warfare and his critique of Western Christianity, commending the account as a challenge for modern believers. The outlet attributes these events and reflections to Guillebaud’s narrative.
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Flores Island in Indonesia on August 15, 2026. The disaster killed 111 people and damaged more than 78,000 homes, leaving 180,000 individuals in temporary shelters. Although a tsunami warning was issued, it was later lifted. Relief organizations, including New Generations, established centers in Central and Southern Flores to distribute supplies to remote areas. The group reports that difficult terrain and destroyed infrastructure have complicated rescue and aid efforts in the region.
A former Muslim businessman in Uzbekistan converted to Christianity following the tragic death of his young daughter. Seeking spiritual answers, he prayed for a Gospel and received a stolen New Testament from friends. Although the book was later confiscated, a former classmate residing in Tajikistan sent him a Bible and a Jesus film. He and his wife watched the film, both prayed to accept Christ, and were subsequently baptized in Tajikistan. The outlet reports that he later baptized four close friends, highlighting a personal journey from Islamic faith to Christianity following personal tragedy and divine intervention.
Gospel artist and worship leader Diamond Moss will join the U.S.-based band In His Service for a ministry mission in the Philippines from September 1 to 17, 2026. According to God Reports, the team plans to visit seven cities to spread the gospel through music and community outreach. Moss stated that the trip aims to encourage believers and share a message of hope, faith, and love. The group intends to use their musical gifts to build relationships and draw people back to Jesus during these international engagements.
The Israel Museum in Jerusalem is displaying an excerpt from the Gospel of Luke alongside the Great Isaiah Scroll during its 60th anniversary celebrations. This exhibit highlights the historical connection between the Old and New Testaments, noting that Isaiah is cited frequently in the New Testament. Nick Syrett of CMJ Israel commented that the display underscores Christianity's roots in Jewish scripture. The original Isaiah Scroll, copied around 125 BC, is on public view for a limited time. The museum states that Christian tradition interprets many Isaiah verses as prophecies regarding Jesus.
Hyatt Moore, formerly the art director for Surfer Magazine, has become the president of Wycliffe USA. His life trajectory shifted from a rebellious youth in California to a career in design and missionary work. After experiencing spiritual emptiness and experimenting with drugs, Moore found faith in Mexico. He now leads the organization while also creating art that celebrates global cultural diversity. His journey highlights a transition from secular success to religious leadership and artistic expression focused on God's people. This role marks a significant chapter in his multifaceted career spanning media, missions, and fine arts.
Kristina Costanza, a former member of an all-female paranormal investigation team based in the US, has abandoned witchcraft and ghost hunting to follow Jesus. According to her account on the Into the Supernatural podcast, her interest began in Salem, Massachusetts, during her teenage years. She later formed a professional team and hosted a Travel Channel show. Costanza reports that involvement in the occult caused severe mental and physical distress. She states that reading the Bible, particularly Deuteronomy 18, led to her repentance and decision to discard occult items. She now shares her testimony to encourage others to leave similar practices.
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