Trending – Chrife.com.gh https://chrife.com.gh Everyday news from a Christian Fellow Sat, 29 Jun 2024 16:18:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.5 https://chrife.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/favicon-1-75x75.png Trending – Chrife.com.gh https://chrife.com.gh 32 32 151839082 No Problem Is Too Small for Prayer https://chrife.com.gh/no-problem-is-too-small-for-prayer/ Sat, 29 Jun 2024 16:17:58 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=7562 Do you ever feel too small for God, as though your worries don’t deserve his attention? As though he has more important things to do than tend to that tricky relationship, those hidden regrets, that dwindling bank account? If you’re tempted to believe such lies, consider an overlooked story in 2 Kings 6 — a story […]

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Do you ever feel too small for God, as though your worries don’t deserve his attention? As though he has more important things to do than tend to that tricky relationship, those hidden regrets, that dwindling bank account? If you’re tempted to believe such lies, consider an overlooked story in 2 Kings 6 — a story of small people, small problems, and a small miracle that can transform our understanding of God.

Small People

The story that comes just before this one is about a great man, a highflier, a Very Important Person: Naaman, the commander of Syria’s army (2 Kings 5). And the passage that immediately follows is about an even more important person: Naaman’s boss, the king of Syria himself (2 Kings 6:8–33). Both men have corner offices, fly first class, and live in gated communities. They’re big deals.

But not the people in this story. They’re referred to as “the sons of the prophets,” a group gathered around a prophet such as Elisha, learning from him and serving him. These are the guys who work in a cubicle, fly economy, and live where the houses are small and close together. They’re not famous or important — in fact, we’re not even told their names.

And yet this passage tells their story. In between the internationally significant narratives of a great military leader and a famous political leader is an episode about no-names involved in a purely local affair. This surprising interest in small people seems to have been a recurring feature of Elisha’s ministry (see the stories in 2 Kings 4). It’s also a hallmark of the larger biblical story (notice, for example, the focus on unnamed minor characters throughout the Gospel of Mark).

What’s more, the Bible doesn’t just show an interest in small people for whom things are going well — people who might be a net gain, even in their own small way. Rather, it demonstrates genuine care for small people with problems. That’s certainly the case for the sons of the prophets in 2 Kings 6. In fact, they have two problems.

Small Problems

The first problem is a housing issue. “Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, ‘See, the place where we dwell under your charge is too small for us’” (2 Kings 6:1). I get this. Several years ago, with our kids getting older, our house felt cramped, so we moved to a larger one. I wouldn’t deem our housing needs worthy of inclusion in Holy Scripture. Maybe the sons of the prophets felt similarly. But here’s their story — in the Bible. Apparently, the small problems of small people matter to God.

In this case, the sons of the prophets come to Elisha not just with a problem, but with a proposed solution. “‘Let us go to the Jordan and each of us get there a log, and let us make a place for us to dwell there.’ And he answered, ‘Go’” (2 Kings 6:2). Sometimes God meets our needs through miraculous means (he’ll do that in this very story). Other times he helps us through our own activity. Elisha doesn’t make a new house appear out of thin air. Instead, the sons of the prophets mount a logging expedition and build a house.

God often works this way. According to Jesus, God feeds the birds of the air — but as one of my seminary professors used to say, you don’t see birds lying on their backs, waiting for God to drop worms into their beaks. He feeds them through their own worm-finding efforts. Yes, God can provide manna from heaven and bread by raven (1 Kings 17:3–6), but his normal means of provision is our own hard work (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

The second problem involves a lost axe head. “But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, ‘Alas, my master! It was borrowed’” (2 Kings 6:5). Of course, this is a tiny issue in the grand sweep of things. But when a problem happens to us, we don’t feel that way about it. When it’s our injured leg, our dented car, our negative job review, our extended sickness, the comparatively small problem can feel big. The unnamed man in verse 5 “cried out” — a term connoting real distress. He cries out, “Alas!” He can’t afford to replace that borrowed axe head.

Yes, it’s a relatively small problem — but not to him. Will God even notice? Look what happens next.

Small Miracle

“Then the man of God said, ‘Where did it fall?’ When he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there and made the iron float. And he said, ‘Take it up.’ So he reached out his hand and took it” (2 Kings 6:6–7). The description of Elisha as “the man of God” reminds us that Elisha, though a prophet, is a man. He needs to ask where the axe head fell (apparently, the miracle doesn’t include actually locating it!). But the term “man of God” also reminds us that Elisha represents God, speaks for God, does miracles by the power of God. God himself, in the person of his prophet, is involved in this small miracle.

Elisha throws a stick into the water; the axe head floats. We’re not told why a stick is used, but this is undoubtedly a miracle. Iron doesn’t float. As miracles go, it’s a small one. No one is raised from the dead. The fate of a nation doesn’t hang in the balance. There are few witnesses. Even the ending of the story is undramatic. “And he said, ‘Take it up.’ So he reached out his hand and took it.” That’s it. End of story.

So, here’s a summary of this little story: Some small people have a couple of small problems, and God meets their needs — in one case through their own planning and effort, and in the other through a small miracle. Maybe the story doesn’t seem all that important, yet I’m glad it’s in the Bible. It demonstrates that God cares about us and our everyday problems. He acts on our behalf. If we’re attentive, we’ll see that in our own lives.

No Prayer Too Small

I’ve seen God act this way in my own life. I’m a pastor, and a few years ago, I agreed to lead a graveside service for the deceased brother of a friend who lives in town. My friend isn’t a follower of Jesus, so this seemed like a great opportunity to serve him and deepen our friendship. The service was scheduled for 1:00, but somehow, I got it into my head that it began at 1:30. That day, I drove to the cemetery and arrived at about 1:20, thinking I was early. But as I walked toward the grave, I saw many cars and a crowd of people. I looked at my notes, discovered I was in fact twenty minutes late, and felt sick to my stomach.

Surprisingly, though, as I neared the grave, I saw pallbearers pulling a coffin out of a hearse and carrying it toward the grave. My friend greeted me and told me what had happened. An out-of-town funeral home had driven the coffin to the wrong cemetery in our town. A grave had been dug at that cemetery for a different funeral the same day, and they had lowered the coffin into that grave. It took time to discover the error, get the coffin out of the grave and back into the hearse, and drive it to the right place. In fact, it took them twenty minutes. Which meant I arrived right on time. I believe that was the work of God. He knew every little detail, cared for me, and prevented an unintentional offense against my friend. God did a small miracle for a small person (me).

Psalm 147:3–4 says that God “heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names.” God does big things (like creating and naming the stars) and little things (like binding up the wounds of sad people). So, here’s an invitation: Ask God for his help. Give him your burden. Surrender your problem. He wants you to ask. He sees and cares, no matter how humble and hidden the issue. God took on flesh and came to earth as a tiny, fragile, helpless baby born to a manual laborer. By doing so, he was saying, loud and clear, “I care about small people. I was one myself.” Let’s bring our problems, big and small, to him.

Source: Desiring God

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Elon Musk’s Neuralink Receives FDA Approval for Second Patient as First Participant Shares Emotional Experience https://chrife.com.gh/elon-musks-neuralink-receives-fda-approval-for-second-patient-as-first-participant-shares-emotional-experience/ Mon, 20 May 2024 18:46:31 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=7475 Neuralink, the pioneering neurotechnology company, has received FDA approval to proceed with its second human trial. This marks a significant step forward in their ambitious quest to create brain-computer interfaces that could transform the treatment of neurological disorders. Our sources reveal that the first patient, who has chosen to remain anonymous, has shared his emotional […]

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Neuralink, the pioneering neurotechnology company, has received FDA approval to proceed with its second human trial. This marks a significant step forward in their ambitious quest to create brain-computer interfaces that could transform the treatment of neurological disorders.

Our sources reveal that the first patient, who has chosen to remain anonymous, has shared his emotional journey through the trial. After undergoing a procedure to implant Neuralink’s advanced device, he described feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. The operation was carried out using Neuralink’s state-of-the-art surgical robot, designed for precision and safety.

Post-surgery, the patient experienced a range of emotions from hope to fear but was reassured by the diligent support from the Neuralink team. While it’s still early in the trial phase, initial results appear promising, bringing a glimmer of hope to many suffering from severe neurological conditions.

This development comes amidst ongoing debate. Critics have raised ethical and safety concerns about the long-term implications of such technology, while advocates argue the potential benefits, including restoring mobility and communication for those with paralysis, are too significant to ignore.

With the FDA’s green light for a second patient, Neuralink continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in neurotechnology. This approval not only reflects the FDA’s confidence in the safety and potential efficacy of Neuralink’s approach but also paves the way for further advancements that could revolutionize medical treatments for neurological disorders.

As Neuralink moves forward, the world watches closely, hopeful that these trials could usher in a new era of medical innovation. We’ll continue to follow this story and bring you the latest updates.

#ChrifeNewsReporters

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Empower Your Career: UN Internship Opportunities in Human Rights and Public Administration Await You https://chrife.com.gh/empower-your-career-un-internship-opportunities-in-human-rights-and-public-administration-await-you/ Tue, 07 May 2024 11:16:06 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=7343 Are you ready to take the next step in your career journey? The United Nations is offering exciting internship opportunities for passionate individuals eager to make a difference in the fields of human rights and public administration. Seize this chance to gain invaluable experience, expand your skills, and contribute to meaningful projects on a global […]

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Are you ready to take the next step in your career journey? The United Nations is offering exciting internship opportunities for passionate individuals eager to make a difference in the fields of human rights and public administration. Seize this chance to gain invaluable experience, expand your skills, and contribute to meaningful projects on a global scale.

Internship 1: Americas Section Human Rights Internship

  • Job Opening ID: 233933
  • Category and Level: Internship, I-1
  • Duty Station: Geneva
  • Expected Duration: 3 months

Join the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva and become an advocate for human rights across the Americas region. As an intern, you will assist in researching and analyzing human rights issues, preparing reports, and supporting key initiatives aimed at promoting and protecting human rights for all. This internship offers a dynamic environment where you can make a tangible impact while honing your skills and knowledge in human rights advocacy.

Qualifications and Skills:
Applicants should be enrolled in or have completed a degree program in relevant fields such as law, international relations, or political science. Fluency in English and Spanish is required, with knowledge of French being desirable. This internship provides a unique opportunity to work alongside experts in the field and gain firsthand experience in the world of human rights diplomacy.

Internship 2: Public Administration Internship

  • Job Opening ID: 233957
  • Category and Level: Internship, I-1
  • Duty Station: New York
  • Expected Duration: 2-6 months
  • APPLY

Embark on a journey of discovery with the Department of Economic and Social Affairs in New York. As a Public Administration intern, you will delve into research areas such as sustainable development, digital government, and public service delivery. Your responsibilities may include assisting with conferences and meetings, conducting research, and preparing analytical documents. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of public administration and contribute to global initiatives for sustainable development.

Qualifications and Skills:
Applicants should be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program or the final year of a first university degree program. Proficiency in standard software applications such as MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams is required, with the ability to design surveys and polls being desirable. This internship provides a platform for aspiring public administrators to apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges and make a meaningful impact on global development efforts.

Empower Your Career: Internship Opportunities in Human Rights and Public Administration Await You

Empower Your Career: Internship Opportunities in Human Rights and Public Administration Await You

Apply Now:
Don’t miss out on these incredible internship opportunities with the United Nations. Take the first step towards a rewarding career by applying today. The deadline for applications is May 12, 2024, for the Americas Section Human Rights Internship and May 16, 2024, for the Public Administration Internship.

Note:
Interns are responsible for their travel, accommodation, and living expenses. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.

Unlock your potential and become a catalyst for change on the global stage. Apply now and join us in our mission to build a better future for all.

37 UN Internships released in the last 7 days - Apply Now!

37 UN Internships released in the last 7 days – Apply Now!

Source: Joinunitednations.com

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US imposes new sanctions on Iran after attack on Israel https://chrife.com.gh/us-imposes-new-sanctions-on-iran-after-attack-on-israel/ Thu, 18 Apr 2024 18:16:21 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=7016 Sanctions against Iran’s missile and drone programmes come as fears mount over the possibility of greater regional escalation. The administration of United States President Joe Biden has imposed new sanctions on Iran in response to its missile and drone attack on Israel, as tensions mount over the possibility of further escalation in the Middle East. […]

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Sanctions against Iran’s missile and drone programmes come as fears mount over the possibility of greater regional escalation.

The administration of United States President Joe Biden has imposed new sanctions on Iran in response to its missile and drone attack on Israel, as tensions mount over the possibility of further escalation in the Middle East.

In a statement on Thursday, Biden said the sanctions targeted “leaders and entities connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran’s Defense Ministry, and the Iranian government’s missile and drone program that enabled” the April 13 attack on Israel.

“As I discussed with my fellow G7 [Group of Seven] leaders the morning after the attack, we are committed to acting collectively to increase economic pressure on Iran,” the US president said.

“And our allies and partners have or will issue additional sanctions and measures to restrict Iran’s destabilizing military programs.”

Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel in the early hours on Sunday, in retaliation for the deadly bombing of the Iranian consulate in Syria’s capital, Damascus, earlier this month.

The attacks came amid months of escalating regional tensions linked to Israel’s months-long bombardment of the Gaza strip. The war in Gaza has killed more than 33,900 Palestinians and plunged the coastal enclave into a humanitarian crisis.

The Biden administration — which has faced pressure to curb its support for Israel amid the conflict in Gaza — is now facing calls to restrain the Israeli government’s response to Iran’s attack.

Despite an international push for de-escalation, Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have pledged to respond.

This is a moment — given the fact we’re looking into the abyss in terms of the region — that Biden has to be much clearer and much stronger in drawing a red line for Israel and Netanyahu not to bring the entire region into a war,” Trita Parsi of the Washington-based Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft told Al Jazeera after the Iranian attack.

Thursday’s sanctions targeted 16 people and two entities linked to the production of Iranian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), or drones, including models that were used in the Iranian attack against Israel, according to the US Treasury.

Washington also sanctioned five companies that provide materials for steel production in Iran, as well as three subsidiaries of an Iranian automaker accused of offering assistance to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The Treasury added that the United Kingdom was also imposing sanctions on people and entities involved in Iran’s UAV and ballistic missile industries.

In a separate statement, the British government said it sanctioned the General Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, the IRGC Navy and individuals affiliated with Iran’s Aerospace Industries Organisation.

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Source: Al Jazeera

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Made in Ghana stadium by Ibrahim Mahama unveiled in London https://chrife.com.gh/made-in-ghana-stadium-by-ibrahim-mahama-unveiled-in-london/ Wed, 17 Apr 2024 14:58:34 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=7003 Visitors to the Barbican centre in London will see swathes of pink and purple across the building this spring rather than the usual concrete exterior thanks to the Ghanian artist Ibrahim Mahama. His large-scale public art piece, Purple Hibiscus—made of 2,000 square metres of woven cloth—covers the lakeside façade of the brutalist structure, creating a vivid contrast against the […]

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Visitors to the Barbican centre in London will see swathes of pink and purple across the building this spring rather than the usual concrete exterior thanks to the Ghanian artist Ibrahim Mahama.

His large-scale public art piece, Purple Hibiscus—made of 2,000 square metres of woven cloth—covers the lakeside façade of the brutalist structure, creating a vivid contrast against the grey building and sky.

The work was sewn together by more than 1,000 weavers and seamstresses at the Aliu Mahama sports stadium in Tamale, Ghana (an accompanying film gives an idea of the scale of the work, showing a plethora of craftspeople knitting the piece together on the football pitch).

“The period for the commission was quite short—roughly seven months to produce the entire work so we had to get a lot of people in order to get the work. I had to rent the stadium also; the days when they weren’t playing football games, we were playing [art] games!” Mahama tells The Art Newspaper, outlining how the commission helped bolster the local economy. “There is a lot of unemployment; we had to use the money that came from the commission to pay these people over seven months.”

When the work is deinstalled in August, the entire piece will go back to Ghana. “There are certain projects I did such as the National Theatre [the venue in Accra was covered in a blanket of jute sacks]… so I think it might be interesting to use the material to wrap this building.”

Mahama has also incorporated into the fabric more than 130 traditional Ghanaian robes known as batakaris, which are handed down through families across numerous communities. These garments reflect “Mahama’s deep interest in the life cycles of textiles and what can be learnt from the historical memories embedded within them”, a statement says.

“I’ve never made a work in this colour and on this scale,” Mahama says. “When I came here, Shanay [Jhaveri, head of visual arts at the Barbican] was telling me about the history of the site; they used to sell rags here [in the Cripplegate district] before the Second World War.

I’ve always believed materials contain spirits and souls. So I thought, if they were selling rags here, then historically the site still contains those spirits in a way. I thought why not work with these materials from Ghana which have been worn over the body and contain the sweat of the body.”

He highlights the global, geo-political aspect of the Barbican project. “The threads [for the covering] are coming from China… I was interested in what [the work] represents on a global scale in terms of politics… art has that responsibility and power—[we are] able to take something that seems very local and then open up the connections within it on a global stage.”

Mahama’s piece forms part of the exhibition Unravel: The Power of Politics & Textiles in Art (until 26 May) which has sparked controversy after two collectors, and the artists Yto Barrada and Cian Dayrit, removed works from the show over the Barbican’s decision to cancel a talk on Palestine and the Holocaust.

Asked about the boycott, Mahama says: “I am coming from ground zero… a lot of these histories [linked to the Global South] are tied to debt and these debts all come back to Europe. I would say that we should have boycotted Europe a long time ago because the politics in Europe has put the Global South in a bad way [condition]… I want to further understand; art is not about withdrawal but about re-inserting yourself, even as problematic as things are, and then within that go much deeper into the politics.”

Mahama is having a moment; last month he won the inaugural Sam Gilliam Award, a prize created last year by Dia Art Foundation and the Sam Gilliam Foundation in honour of the late artist’s legacy (Mahama will receive US$75,000 and feature in a public programme at Dia in autumn of this year). Meanwhile, Mahama will present a new body of work at the Fruitmarket gallery in Edinburgh later this year (22 June-6 October).

Source : asaaseradio.com, Author: Fred Dzakpata

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Gen Z women are leaving the church in large numbers due to changing beliefs and practices. https://chrife.com.gh/gen-z-women-are-leaving-the-church-in-large-numbers-due-to-changing-beliefs-and-practices/ Thu, 11 Apr 2024 19:01:44 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=6934 In the bustling city of Oakwood, nestled between towering skyscrapers and historic buildings, lies St. Mary’s Church, a cornerstone of the community for generations. Its stained glass windows tell stories of faith, hope, and tradition. Yet, beneath the veneer of tranquility, a quiet revolution brews. The pews, once filled with fervent worshippers, now echo with […]

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In the bustling city of Oakwood, nestled between towering skyscrapers and historic buildings, lies St. Mary’s Church, a cornerstone of the community for generations. Its stained glass windows tell stories of faith, hope, and tradition. Yet, beneath the veneer of tranquility, a quiet revolution brews.

The pews, once filled with fervent worshippers, now echo with the footsteps of fewer attendees, particularly among Gen Z women. A recent survey conducted by Oakwood University’s sociology department revealed a startling trend: more Gen Z women are abandoning the church than their male counterparts.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the churchyard, Pastor Jonathan gathered his thoughts in his dimly lit study. The survey results weighed heavily on his mind. How could a sanctuary that once served as a beacon of solace for so many now be losing its grip on the younger generation, especially women?

He reminisced about his own journey to the priesthood, the unwavering faith that guided him through turbulent times. But for today’s youth, faith seemed elusive, overshadowed by the allure of modernity and skepticism.

Across town, in a cozy apartment adorned with posters of social justice movements and feminist icons, Maya scrolled through the survey findings on her tablet. As a proud Gen Z woman and a staunch advocate for equality, she found herself nodding in agreement with the statistics.

Growing up in a traditional Catholic family, Maya’s Sundays were spent attending mass and reciting prayers. Yet, as she entered her teenage years, she began to question the teachings of the church. Why were women relegated to subservient roles? Why were their voices silenced in matters of faith and doctrine?

Her disillusionment deepened as she witnessed the church’s reluctance to address pressing social issues, from LGBTQ+ rights to reproductive freedom. For Maya and many of her peers, the church’s values no longer aligned with their own evolving beliefs.

Meanwhile, at Oakwood University, Professor Carter sifted through the survey data with a furrowed brow. As an esteemed sociologist specializing in religious studies, she had anticipated some degree of disengagement among Gen Z youth. However, the gender disparity caught her off guard.

In her meticulously organized office, lined with bookshelves brimming with scholarly tomes, Professor Carter pondered the underlying factors driving Gen Z women away from the church. Was it a lack of representation in leadership roles? Was it the failure to address gender-based discrimination within the congregation?

As she delved deeper into her research, Professor Carter embarked on a journey of introspection, grappling with her own relationship with faith and feminism. Like Maya and countless other Gen Z women, she yearned for a spiritual community that embraced diversity, empowerment, and inclusivity.

Back at St. Mary’s Church, Pastor Jonathan convened a meeting of the parish council to discuss the survey findings. The mood was somber as they contemplated the future of their congregation. Should they adapt to the changing times, or cling to tradition at the risk of alienating a generation?

In the end, they chose a path of reconciliation and renewal. With Pastor Jonathan’s guidance, St. Mary’s embarked on a mission to foster a more inclusive and progressive environment, where all members felt valued and heard.

As the church doors swung open on Sunday morning, a sense of anticipation filled the air. Gen Z women, once disillusioned by centuries-old dogma, now found solace in a community that welcomed their voices and honored their experiences.

In the heart of Oakwood, amidst the ebb and flow of societal change, faith endured—not as a relic of the past, but as a beacon of hope for a more equitable future. And in this newfound harmony, the spirit of St. Mary’s thrived, stronger and more resilient than ever before.

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US teen arrested over alleged plans to attack churches in the name of ISIS https://chrife.com.gh/us-teen-arrested-over-alleged-plans-to-attack-churches-in-the-name-of-isis/ Wed, 10 Apr 2024 23:08:08 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=6925 The FBI has arrested an 18-year-old man from Idaho, for allegedly planning to kill churchgoers in his local town after pledging his allegiance to Islamic State. Alexander Scott Mercurio is accused of plotting to attack multiple churches in Coeur d’Alene on Sunday, “using weapons, including knives, firearms, and fire”. According to a statement from the […]

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The FBI has arrested an 18-year-old man from Idaho, for allegedly planning to kill churchgoers in his local town after pledging his allegiance to Islamic State.

Alexander Scott Mercurio is accused of plotting to attack multiple churches in Coeur d’Alene on Sunday, “using weapons, including knives, firearms, and fire”.

According to a statement from the Justice Department, a search of his parents’ home found items consistent with his planned attack, including a “metal pipe, handcuffs, folding saw, head coverings, two canisters of butane fuel, and machete”. Several firearms were also discovered in his father’s bedroom.

Court documents say Mercurio “stated he intended to incapacitate his father with a pipe, handcuff him, and use the firearms locked in the closet to attack the church”.

Mercurio allegedly pledged loyalty to ISIS and sought to attack people attending churches in Idaho on 7th April 2024, before the conclusion of Ramadan.

Mercurio used his school-issued computer to plan the attack after finding ‘purpose’ in ISIS, according to an affidavit. He allegedly outlined plans to “kill as many as possible” at multiple local churches in an act of martyrdom.

“This case should be an eye-opener to the dangers of self-radicalisation, which is a real threat to our communities,” special agent in charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI said.

He now faces charges of attempting to provide material support and resources to ISIS – a designated terrorist organisation. If convicted, Mercurio faces up to 20 years in prison.

Related videos:

Source : Premier Christian News, Author: Heather Preston

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Christian Leaders Critique Biden’s Easter Proclamation of ‘Transgender Day of Visibility’ https://chrife.com.gh/christian-leaders-critique-bidens-easter-proclamation-of-transgender-day-of-visibility/ Wed, 03 Apr 2024 14:09:02 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=6874 President Joe Biden’s proclamation recognizing Easter alongside the ‘Transgender Day of Visibility’ has ignited controversy and drawn criticism from Christian leaders across the nation. The juxtaposition of these two events in a single proclamation has sparked debate regarding the intersection of religious observance and LGBTQ+ rights. The proclamation, issued by the White House, aimed to […]

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President Joe Biden’s proclamation recognizing Easter alongside the ‘Transgender Day of Visibility’ has ignited controversy and drawn criticism from Christian leaders across the nation. The juxtaposition of these two events in a single proclamation has sparked debate regarding the intersection of religious observance and LGBTQ+ rights.

The proclamation, issued by the White House, aimed to acknowledge both Easter Sunday, a significant religious holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the ‘Transgender Day of Visibility,’ which celebrates transgender individuals and raises awareness about discrimination they face.

However, many Christian leaders have voiced their disapproval of the proclamation’s framing. They argue that Easter, a cornerstone of Christian faith symbolizing hope, redemption, and renewal, should not be overshadowed or diluted by the recognition of another event, especially one that some view as conflicting with their religious beliefs.

Prominent figures within the Christian community, including clergy members, theologians, and conservative politicians, have condemned Biden’s proclamation as a misrepresentation of the values and priorities of the nation’s majority religious demographic.

Some critics argue that while acknowledging the rights and struggles of transgender individuals is important, doing so within the context of Easter diminishes the religious significance of the holiday for millions of Americans.

Others perceive the proclamation as part of a broader political agenda aimed at advancing LGBTQ+ rights at the expense of religious freedoms. They contend that the Biden administration’s emphasis on inclusivity and diversity has alienated traditional religious communities and undermined their moral convictions.

Amidst the controversy, voices advocating for understanding and dialogue have emerged. Some religious leaders have called for respectful engagement and empathy towards transgender individuals while affirming the importance of religious freedom and expression.

The debate surrounding Biden’s Easter proclamation highlights the ongoing tensions between religious traditions and evolving societal norms. It underscores the challenges of navigating a diverse and pluralistic society where competing values and beliefs often collide.

As the discussion continues, it remains to be seen how policymakers, religious leaders, and the public at large will reconcile the tension between religious observance and social progress in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

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NBA Star Jaden Ivey Boldly Preaches The Return of Jesus Christ https://chrife.com.gh/nba-star-jaden-ivey-boldly-preaches-the-return-of-jesus-christ/ Thu, 21 Mar 2024 15:16:22 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=6843 In the electrifying world of professional basketball, Jaden Ivey was a force to be reckoned with. Known for his lightning-fast dribbling skills, impeccable shooting accuracy, and charismatic presence on and off the court, he had risen to become one of the NBA’s brightest stars. But behind the glitz and glamour of his athletic prowess, there […]

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In the electrifying world of professional basketball, Jaden Ivey was a force to be reckoned with. Known for his lightning-fast dribbling skills, impeccable shooting accuracy, and charismatic presence on and off the court, he had risen to become one of the NBA’s brightest stars.

But behind the glitz and glamour of his athletic prowess, there was a side to Jaden that few knew about. He was a devout Christian, deeply committed to his faith and passionate about sharing it with others. And it was this passion that led him to take a bold step one evening during a post-game press conference.

As reporters gathered around, eager to hear Jaden’s thoughts on the game, he began by expressing gratitude for his team’s victory. But then, in a sudden shift, he spoke with a fervor that caught everyone off guard.

“Before I talk about basketball,” Jaden began, his voice unwavering, “there’s something more important I need to share. Something that’s been weighing heavy on my heart.”

The room fell silent as Jaden launched into an impassioned speech about the return of Jesus Christ. He spoke of biblical prophecies, of signs and wonders heralding the end times, and of the urgent need for people to turn to God.

“Some may think I’m crazy for talking about this,” Jaden admitted, his eyes ablaze with conviction, “but I can’t stay silent about something as crucial as this. We’re living in tumultuous times, and I believe with all my heart that Jesus is coming back soon.”

As Jaden’s words filled the room, a sense of awe and reverence descended upon those present. Reporters, accustomed to hearing athletes speak only of wins and losses, found themselves captivated by the sincerity and passion in his voice.

But Jaden’s message didn’t stop there. In the days and weeks that followed, he used his platform as an NBA star to reach even more people with the message of hope and redemption. He spoke at churches, appeared on talk shows, and used social media to spread the word far and wide.

And while some criticized him for mixing sports with religion, many others were inspired by his courage and conviction. They admired his willingness to speak out on behalf of his faith, even in the face of potential backlash.

As the months went by, Jaden’s message continued to resonate with people from all walks of life. Many found comfort and solace in his words, while others were prompted to reexamine their own beliefs and priorities.

And then, one day, just as Jaden had proclaimed, Jesus Christ returned, ushering in a new era of peace and righteousness for all mankind. And though Jaden’s days on the basketball court eventually came to an end, his legacy as a bold preacher of the gospel lived on for generations to come.

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After reportedly encountering Jesus Christ in visions and dreams, 200 Muslims in Gaza have purportedly embraced Christianity. https://chrife.com.gh/after-reportedly-encountering-jesus-christ-in-visions-and-dreams-200-muslims-in-gaza-have-purportedly-embraced-christianity/ Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:14:27 +0000 https://chrife.com.gh/?p=6798 In recent months, an extraordinary phenomenon has unfolded in the Gaza Strip, where approximately 200 Muslims have reportedly embraced Christianity after experiencing profound encounters with Jesus Christ in visions and dreams. This spiritual awakening has stirred both curiosity and skepticism, yet for those who have undergone these encounters, the transformation has been undeniable. The story […]

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In recent months, an extraordinary phenomenon has unfolded in the Gaza Strip, where approximately 200 Muslims have reportedly embraced Christianity after experiencing profound encounters with Jesus Christ in visions and dreams. This spiritual awakening has stirred both curiosity and skepticism, yet for those who have undergone these encounters, the transformation has been undeniable.

The story begins with individuals from various walks of life within Gaza’s predominantly Muslim community. Some were devout followers of Islam, while others were simply going about their daily routines. However, each of them found themselves unexpectedly visited by vivid dreams and visions featuring Jesus Christ.

In these experiences, Jesus appeared to them with messages of love, peace, and salvation. He spoke to them in their native language, offering guidance, comfort, and assurance. For some, these encounters occurred repeatedly over a period of time, each encounter deepening their conviction and faith.

As news of these encounters spread throughout the community, it sparked a ripple effect of curiosity and inquiry. People began sharing their stories with friends, family, and neighbors, leading to discussions about the nature of faith and the significance of these encounters.

Despite the risks associated with openly converting from Islam to Christianity in a conservative society like Gaza, many individuals felt compelled to publicly acknowledge their newfound faith. Some attended secret gatherings of fellow converts, while others sought out local Christian communities for support and guidance.

As the number of converts grew, so too did the scrutiny from local authorities and religious leaders. Converting from Islam to Christianity is considered apostasy in many Muslim-majority countries, and those who openly profess their new faith often face ostracism, discrimination, and even violence.

Despite these challenges, the converts remained steadfast in their newfound beliefs, drawing strength from their encounters with Jesus and the support of their fellow believers. Some expressed a sense of liberation and purpose, while others spoke of experiencing a profound inner peace they had never known before.

The story of the 200 Muslims in Gaza who reportedly accepted Christ after seeing Him in visions and dreams serves as a testament to the mysterious ways in which faith can manifest and transform lives. It also highlights the enduring power of spiritual encounters to transcend cultural, religious, and political divides, offering hope and redemption to those who seek it.

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