News & Ideas

Monday's News & Ideas - 11/25/2024

  • Texas schools battle likely
  • 'Fusion politics'
  • Bible study for unhoused
  • T.D. Jakes stable 
  • The work of love
  • Pilgrims vs. Puritans

Texas tees up likely legal battle with biblical public school lessons
The Hill: The Texas State Board of Education voted 8-7 on Friday to allow lessons about stories in the Bible in K-5 classes, encouraging those who want more Christianity in public schools.

This fiery evangelical pastor offers a blueprint for Democrats’ revival in Trump’s second term
CNN: The Rev. William J. Barber II has written a blueprint for expanding the Democratic base through what he calls “fusion politics,” a multiracial and multiclass coalition that transcends the conservative-vs.-progressive binary.

At Bible study for the homeless, a search for meaning*
New York Times: Religion is often overlooked as a factor in the lives of the needy, but those who gather at a center in Virginia say it helps sustain them.

Bishop T.D. Jakes is stable after suffering ‘health incident’ during Sunday sermon, church says
CNN: Bishop T.D. Jakes had a “slight health incident” while delivering a sermon on Sunday, according to The Potter’s House, the Dallas-based megachurch where he serves as pastor. Jakes was stable as of Sunday night.

The work of love is always before us*
Christianity Today: Whatever happens with Trump, the task before Christians making these statements remains the same: Take your concern on behalf of vulnerable people and turn it toward genuine solidarity and care.

The Spark

How the first Pilgrims and the Puritans differed in their views on religion and respect for Native Americans
There are significant differences between the two groups. Nowhere is this more telling than in their respective religious beliefs and treatment of Native Americans, says The Conversation.

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starry night art

Advent and Christmas resource guide

From music and visual arts inspiration to children’s book recommendations, this guide from the Calvin Institute of Chrisitan Worship provides Advent and Christmas worship planning resources.

Learn More