Category - persecution

Are Christians facing discrimination?

Jonathan Bartley — Fri, 09 May 2008 00:42:43 +0100

Constant Christian claims of discrimination don't hold water, says Jonathan Bartley. They are used to excuse privilege, and evade the more demanding self-giving dynamic of the Gospel.

St George is no crusader

Press Office — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 03:53:42 +0100

The religion and society think-tank Ekklesia has welcomed a new painting of St George, the patron saint of England, which portrays him as a man of compassion and challenges the myth of 'the crusade

Christians still fear attacks in Indian state of Orissa

Ecumenical News International — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:07:50 +0000

In the Indian State of Orissa's Kandhamal district, residents say it is hard not to be afraid. The ash heaps and metal frames are all that remain of the contents of the two-storied office of World Vision, a Christian development organization.

Christians in India's Orissa state campaign for protection

Ecumenical News International — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:27:34 +0000

Christian groups and churches in Indian's eastern state of Orissa are demanding urgent protection, saying they have been hounded by Hindu extremists, with reports of nine people being killed in attacks since Christmas.

The real offensiveness of Christmas

Jonathan Bartley — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:14:09 +0000

Christmas is offensive, and always will be, says Jonathan Bartley. It legitimates the undermining of those in authority. But it is also about looking after not just those who are “deserving” of love, but those who appear disreputable and unworthy.

Forgiveness and suffering for beliefs is a sign of hope, says Pope

staff writers — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 15:07:13 +0000

Pope Benedict XVI has declared in one of his key Christmas messages that believers facing persecution, torture and death in some parts of the world and those who die forgiving their killers are a sign of hope and faith for humanity.

Struggle, surprise and sainthood

Simon Barrow — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 22:58:07 +0000

Christian faith is about sustaining faith in face of the knowledge and reality of death, says Simon Barrow. The feasts of All Saints and All Souls put us in solidarity with a host of people who have struggled to see right prevail.

Freedom of belief under threat, says new book on India

Ecumenical News International — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 08:07:01 +0100

Despite India remaining the world's most populous and vibrant democracy, freedom of religion is in decline and plural secularism threatened, says a journalist-turned-Christian activist who is now secretary general of the All India Christian Council.

Vietnam Mennonite Church to gain official recognition

staff writers — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 06:35:23 +0100

Vietnam's national Religious Affairs Committee has announced that it will present a 'Certificate for Religious Activities' to the Vietnam Mennonite Church in early October 2007, following concerted attempts by the church to gain recognition.

Pentecostal pastor defiant over attacks on Indian Christians

Ecumenical News International — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 22:13:53 +0100

Two months after being brutally assaulted by Hindu fundamentalists in the presence of television crews, Indian Christian Pastor Walter Masih says he is determined to continue his ministry.