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Mamdani vetoes first bill in sign of tensions with NYC council

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 09:27:30 -0400

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani issued his first veto Friday, halting City Council bill Int. 175-B that would have forced the NYPD to publicize plans for handling protests near schools and other educational facilities.

It is the latest sign of Mamdani's growing clash with Council leadership, deepening an early power struggle with Council Speaker Julie Menin over policing, public safety and free speech.

"The problem is how widely this bill defines an educational institution and the constitutional concerns it raises regarding New Yorkers’ fundamental right to protest," Mamdani wrote in a statement. "As the bill is written, everywhere from universities to museums to teaching hospitals could face restrictions."

"This could impact workers protesting ICE, or college students demanding their school divest from fossil fuels or demonstrating in support of Palestinian rights," he continued.

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"Int. 175-B is not a narrow public safety measure; it is a piece of legislation that has alarmed much of the labor movement, reproductive rights groups, and immigration advocates, among others, across this City. Nearly a dozen unions have raised the alarm about its impact on their ability to organize," the mayor added.

Menin is going to work to whip up votes to override Mamdani on the bill, which finished just four votes shy of being veto-proof, passing last month 30-19.

"Ensuring students can enter and exit their schools without fear of harassment or intimidation should not be controversial," Menin wrote in a statement. "This bill simply requires the NYPD to clearly outline how it will ensure safe access when there are threats of obstruction or physical injury, while fully protecting First Amendment rights."

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The bill, sponsored by Councilman Eric Dinowitz, would have required police to submit a protest-response plan to the mayor and speaker and post it online. It also would have required the police commissioner to provide a public point of contact for any effort to manage demonstrations near educational sites.

Dinowitz pushed back on claims that the bill threatened free speech.

"Should students be harassed on the way to school? I think the answer is no," he told The New York Times.

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Opponents on the left said the measure would expand protest policing and chill protected speech.

The fight also exposed one of the biggest political fault lines at City Hall: how to respond to protests tied to Israel and the war in Gaza. The issue gained momentum after a heated protest outside a Manhattan synagogue last fall, where some demonstrators shouted, "Death to the IDF," and, "Globalize the intifada."

"Sending the message to New Yorkers that we have something to worry about with regard to protest by or near schools, libraries, teaching hospitals is absolutely the wrong message for these times, especially when the Trump regime is coming at protest with a sledgehammer," New York Civil Liberties Union Executive Director Donna Lieberman told the Times.

Jewish groups, including UJA-Federation of New York, blasted the veto, rebuking the "profound failure of City Hall to demonstrate to all New Yorkers that our safety is a priority."

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"At a time when Jewish and other communities across our city are facing heightened threats, this legislation represented a crucial step toward ensuring that every school and community institution can be better protected," the group wrote in a statement.

Mamdani and Menin — the city's first Jewish speaker — had shown signs this week of trying to cool things down, including a Thursday dinner to discuss the pending veto and other issues, the Times reported. Friday’s decision suggested the détente may not last.

Unexpected food DNA found on cloth believed to have wrapped Jesus, study reveals

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 08:00:08 -0400

Researchers recently identified food DNA on the Shroud of Turin — a finding that suggests the burial cloth believed to have wrapped Jesus Christ may have been contaminated over time.

In a preprint study published in March on bioRxiv, a group of international researchers analyzed DNA traces from 1978 samples taken from the relic.

Scientists identified plant traces by sequencing microscopic DNA fragments found in dust and fibers collected from the Shroud, rather than discovering visible food remains.

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They found a host of different species — with carrot and bread wheat the most dominant.

Carrot (Daucus carota) was the most prominent plant DNA signal, accounting for about 30.9% of identified plant sequences — and the study said the DNA was more similar to cultivated carrot varieties.

About 11.6% of identified plant sequences were assigned to Triticum aestivum, or bread wheat.

"Other cereals found encompassed durum wheat (Triticum durum), einkorn wheat (Triticum monococcum), maize (Zea mays) and rye (Secale cereale)," the study noted.

"Horticultural crops included peppers, tomatoes and potatoes (Solanaceae), as well as melons or cucumbers (Cucurbitaceae)."

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The study also noted a "strong presence of peanuts (Arachis spp.) ... weak traces of perennial ryegrass, bluegrass, fescue, oats and clovers were observed."

Some of the species were New World crops, including tomatoes, maize and peanuts, pointing to likely contamination after 1492.

The study identified fruit tree DNA including "banana, almond, walnut and sweet orange" — with fainter signals from fig, pistachio, apple, pear, hazelnut and grapevine.

Researchers found that the shroud's age "cannot be determined through metagenomics [genetic profiling] because this methodology is unable to provide any robust evidence supporting either a medieval origin or a history dating back two millennia."

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"Nevertheless, our findings constitute a novel and significant contribution to the field, thoroughly elucidating the biological traces left by centuries of social, cultural and ecological engagement," the study's authors wrote.

"Collectively, our findings illuminate important aspects of the Shroud's preservation history."

The researchers declined to provide comment to Fox News Digital, noting that the final results have not been published yet.

The shroud, kept in Turin, Italy, since 1578, has a documented history beginning in the mid-14th century.

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The relic has been the subject of intense scrutiny over the centuries; radiocarbon dating conducted in 1988 dated the cloth to between 1260 and 1390 A.D.

In 2024, Italy's Institute of Crystallography said its analysis using wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) produced results consistent with the Shroud of Turin being a roughly 2,000-year-old relic, aligning with Christian tradition.

The study comes amid a string of ancient food-related discoveries over the past year.

In December, Pompeii archaeologists unearthed preserved food remains in ancient Pompeii that reveal what enslaved people ate before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, including beans and fruit.

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In 2025, researchers in southern Oregon found starch granules that reveal how Native Americans processed food thousands of years ago.

US monitoring ‘concerning’ UK prosecution of retired pastor who preached John 3:16 near hospital

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 14:00:11 -0400

A retired pastor in the United Kingdom is awaiting a ruling after standing trial Wednesday on criminal charges relating to a gospel sermon he preached near a hospital.

Clive Johnston, 77, faces two charges from a July 7, 2024, sermon on John 3:16 he delivered near Causeway Hospital in Coleraine.

Prosecutors claim he violated Northern Ireland’s Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act 2023 by preaching near a hospital where abortions are performed. If convicted, he could face a criminal record and a fine of up to £2,500 ($3,376).

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Johnston may be the first person prosecuted under the law for preaching a sermon unrelated to abortion in a protected zone, according to the Christian Institute, which is supporting his legal case.

At Wednesday's hearing at Coleraine Magistrates' Court, a district judge announced he would reserve judgment until May 7, according to the legal group.

A newly released police bodycam video of the July 2024 incident was shared with Fox News Digital Wednesday. In the video, an officer approaches Johnston to tell him he is in a clearly marked safe access zone and cannot be filming or preaching in the area.

"You can say to yourself, in the goodness of my heart, ‘I am coming here to preach the word of God,’" the officer says at one point. "However, if you are reckless, as to the effect that it could have on patients, staff or any protected person, then you may be committing an offense."

"That is an incredible thought," Johnston replies in the video. "Because what you're saying is the word of God, which the country has had free to proclaim and read in church for hundreds of years, freedom since the Magna Carta, suddenly could become offensive because it's outside a hospital."

The officer told Johnston he may go inside the chaplaincy area in the hospital if he wants a "safe area" to give "religious guidance or comfort or help."

"But while you're out here in the safe access zone, any act in that area which may dissuade any protected person from availing services, harassment or cause them distress, is an offense," he added.

Prosecutors accuse Johnston of "influencing a protected person, whether directly or indirectly," by conducting a "protest" near the hospital, where abortions are performed, in violation of the 2023 law. He is also accused of failing to leave the safe access zone when directed.

The Christian Institute said Johnston’s sermon did not mention abortion.

Ahead of the hearing, the U.S. State Department expressed concern about Johnston’s case.

"The United States is still monitoring many 'buffer zone' cases in the U.K., as well as other acts of censorship across Europe," the department told The Telegraph.

Referring to other cases of Christians prosecuted under the abortion law for silent prayer, the department added, "The U.K.’s persecution of silent prayer represents not only an egregious violation of the fundamental right to free speech and religious liberty but also a concerning departure from the shared values that ought to underpin U.S.-U.K. relations."

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Simon Calvert, deputy director of the Christian Institute, said Johnston’s prosecution sets a troubling new precedent in the U.K.

"Should a law designed to stop abortion protests be used to criminalize gospel preaching? John 3:16 is a wonderful, famous verse, and everyone knows it says nothing about abortion," he said in a press release.

"We have amazing freedom in this country to share the Christian message. That’s why we’ve taken on this case. Prosecuting Pastor Johnston for preaching ‘God so loved the world’ near a hospital on a quiet Sunday is a shocking new attempt to restrict freedom of religion and freedom of speech in a part of the world where open-air gospel services are a part of the culture."

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Johnston said he was grateful the judge decided to take time to think about his case before issuing a ruling because "there is a lot at stake."

"It’s a difficult thing to go through, but we are upheld by the prayers of God’s people, and we have drawn near to Christ for help and strength," he said. "Christ is the most precious thing in the world to us, and that is why we are so keen to talk about him in the highways and byways of this land that we love."

Trump's meme depicting himself as Jesus Christ draws backlash from allies

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:02:59 -0400

President Donald Trump irked Americans on both sides of the aisle on Sunday night by posting a now-deleted, AI-generated image that critics felt depicted himself as Jesus Christ.

The image showed Trump healing a sick man while surrounded by followers and patriotic imagery such as the flag, a bald eagle and the Statue of Liberty. The post came as Trump attacked Pope Leo XIV as "weak on crime," "terrible for foreign policy" and accused him of "catering to the radical left" in a separate message.

Trump was asked about the image of himself "depicted as Jesus Christ" when a gaggle outside the Oval Office on Monday.

"I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor and had to do with Red Cross… which we support, and only the fake news could come up with that one," Trump told reporters.

POPE LEO SAYS HE'S UNAFRAID OF THE TRUMP ADMIN AFTER PRESIDENT CALLS HIM 'TERRIBLE' ON FOREIGN POLICY

"It’s supposed to be me as a doctor, making people better, "Trump continued. "And I do make people better."

While some interpreted the image as Trump "healing the nation," and others suggested it was merely intended to troll Pope Leo, it didn’t go over well with some of his own supporters, and it was eventually removed from his Truth Social page.

OutKick’s Riley Gaines responded, "Why? Seriously, I cannot understand why he'd post this. Is he looking for a response? Does he actually think this?"

"Either way, two things are true," Gaines continued. "1) a little humility would serve him well 2) God shall not be mocked."

RedState writer Bonchie noted, "God doesn’t care about your whataboutism," and suggested Trump remove the message.

"Guys, some things can’t be excused by turning them into online slap fights because some things have larger implications than online slap fights. Such as blasphemy," Bonchie wrote. "Trump needs to delete that meme and apologize. It’s that simple."

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Journalist Megan Basham added, "He needs to take this down immediately and ask for forgiveness from the American people and then from God," while OutKick’s Jon Root called the post "blasphemous" and "reprehensible."

Influencer Mike Cernovich said it "would not be tolerated for any other religion," while influencer Brilyn Hollyhand said "faith is not a prop."

"You don’t need to portray yourself as a savior when your record should speak for itself. The same God who saved Trump’s life from that bullet sent His son Jesus to die for our sins. He died for Trump just as much as for you and I," Hollyhand wrote.

Conservative pundit Carmine Sabia suggested all Christians should be offended by the meme.

"As a Christian, I’m offended by this, and I don’t know how any Christian would not be offended by this. There is only one Lord and Savior Jesus Christ," Sabia responded. "Mocking Him is not OK."

Christian blogger Jackie Chea added, "No matter what Trump meant, the meme’s blasphemous. Doesn’t matter if he was trying to be funny. Not a good joke."

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Trump’s Truth Social post was also heavily criticized by the left and members of the mainstream media.

"I can't get over the blasphemous picture Trump put up comparing himself to Jesus Christ. Either he doesn't know that you're not supposed to compare yourself to the Lord and Savior, which is a stunning level of ignorance, or he did it on purpose to disrespect and mock people. Wow," Young Turks founder Cenk Uygur wrote.

NBC News’ Richard Engel pondered whether Trump was joking or if he truly believes he has been "elevated to the level of a prophet."

Left-wing influencer Harry Sisson suggested Trump was having a "mental health episode," and "The View" co-host Sunny Hostin also called it "blasphemous" on Monday.

At least one person found humor in the situation.

"You guys are all freaking out and my uncle has been posting some version of that Trump as Jesus meme on Facebook since 2016," writer Bridget Phetasy wrote.

A pro-Trump account said critics were wrongheaded, noting the image was made by another supporter months ago and showed "President Trump carrying out God's work in healing and restoring our nation."

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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Fox News Digital’s Eric Mack contributed to this report.

Pope Leo XIV to visit fastest-growing Catholic continent during 4-nation Africa trip

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 16:00:04 -0400

Pope Leo XIV starts a four-nation visit to Africa Monday, visiting the fastest-growing continent for the Catholic Church as he embarks on his fourth foreign trip since becoming pontiff in 2025.

While the trip does not include the continent’s most populous nation of Nigeria — where thousands of the faithful have been killed for their religious beliefs — it begins in the Muslim-majority country of Algeria.

The Vatican has called the trip "A pilgrim in Africa." The main themes Leo is expected to address include peace, migration, the environment, young people and the family, according to the Holy See. He will make 25 speeches in four of Africa’s main languages — French, English, Portuguese and Spanish.

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Analysts and clerics are keen to stress the overall importance of this visit to the continent. "I believe the Holy Father is walking with the African church in the context of the global church," Rev. Daniel Male, secretary of the Union of Augustinian Friars of Africa, told the Religion News Service. He added, "He is affirming the African churches’ growth and vibrancy and is also making a statement that the church has a preferential option for the poor and those at the margins."

The Catholic OSV News added the visit "highlights peace efforts, the works of mercy, and the Catholic Church’s vibrant presence on the continent."

The National Catholic Register stated that in 1910 Africa was home to less than 1 million Catholics. The latest figures available for 2024 estimate there are now 288 million.

Commenting on his absence from Nigeria, Frans Cronje, African-based analyst at the Yorktown Foundation for Freedom, told Fox News Digital, "Given Nigeria's role as the epicenter of the terror threat faced by Africa's Christians, it will be disappointing to many of them to learn that the pope has left that country off his Africa agenda. The country has become ground zero for the global Islamist terror threat."

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The pontiff must be invited to a country by the host government. Analysts say the government of Nigeria may feel a papal visit may be too sensitive at this time. But the Nigerian government did not respond to requests for comment on this issue by Fox News Digital.

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Details of the trip include:

Algeria: April 13 to 15

The Vatican’s yearbook for 2025, the Annuario Pontificio, states Catholics number 8,740 out of a population of 46–48 million. The pope is believed to be coming to Algeria to visit the ancient city of Hippo, now called Annaba. The city was home to St. Augustine, the "doctor of the church." Pope Leo is the first pontiff to belong to the Augustinian Order.

He is also expected to emphasize interfaith dialogue with Islam when he visits the Great Mosque of Algiers. This is one of the biggest in the world, capable of accommodating up to 120,000 people.

The 2026 Open Doors World Watch List placed Algeria in the 20th position for Christian persecution. It said 47 churches of the Protestant Church of Algeria (EPA) have been closed by the authorities.

The Associated Press reported that Algerian authorities rejected a Vatican request for Leo to visit Médéa to pray at the Tibhirine monastery, the place where seven French Trappist monks were kidnapped and killed May 21, 1996, by Islamic extremists during the country’s civil war.

Cameroon: April 15 to 18

The Catholic EWTN organization reports that Catholics make up between 30% and 35% of the population of some 30 million.

The pope will preside over five public Masses and addresses in three cities. He will also meet with vulnerable children at the Ngul Zamba Orphanage in the capital city of Yaoundé.

Angola: April 18 to 21

In the latest government census, some 56% of Angola’s population identified as being Catholic.

The most significant part of the pope’s visit to Angola is expected to be when he goes to the town of Muxima, where he will pray at a shrine to the Virgin Mary, known locally as "Mama Muxima," or "mother of the heart." This is said to be the spiritual home for many Angolans, drawing over 2 million pilgrims every year.

Equatorial Guinea: April 21 to 23

The Vatican has stated that approximately 80% of the population of Equatorial Guinea are Catholic. Leo will hold several Masses and addresses, and will visit a new psychiatric hospital and a prison. The Jean Pierre Olie Psychiatric Hospital in Sampaka, Malabo, was only inaugurated in December and is the country’s first modern specialized mental health facility. It collaborates with France’s Hospital Saint-Anne in Paris.

In a potentially controversial move, the pope will also visit a prison in Bata notorious for reports of inmate torture and abuse.

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The Vatican did not respond to Fox News Digital questions by press time.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

The quantum mystery that may explain how God knows every thought you have

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 07:00:26 -0400

For millennia, the concept of an omniscient God — a deity who knows every sparrow that falls, every thought that forms, and every star that burns across the vast expanse of the cosmos — has boggled the human imagination. How in the world can any entity, no matter how supreme, know everything that’s happening everywhere, all at once, in real time, and with atomic-level intimacy?

To the strict materialist, it sounds like an impossibility, a wondrous but completely illogical relic of ancient philosophies and religions. Yet, when one plumbs the depths of modern physics, one discovers something utterly profound: The concept of divine omniscience is not just plausible; its mechanism is woven into the very fabric of spacetime.

This deeply mysterious mechanism is called quantum entanglement. It was first acknowledged in 1935 by physicists Albert Einstein, Boris Podolsky and Nathan Rosen; verified theoretically in 1964 by physicist John Stewart Bell; and validated experimentally in 1972 by physicists John Clauser and Stuart Freedman.

Here’s how it works.

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Two objects — for example, subatomic particles — that are intimately related and then widely separated somehow maintain an invisible, intimate and unbreakable connection. One object might be in a lab on Earth and the other might be clear across the universe, billions of light-years away, yet whatever happens to one is known and felt by the other instantaneously, without any delay whatsoever.

Einstein was none too pleased with quantum entanglement because it violates a sacred principle of his theory of special relativity: Nothing — not even information — can travel faster than the speed of light. He mocked the idea that two widely separated objects could communicate infinitely fast, calling it spukhafte Fernwirkung, German for "spooky action at a distance."

Even though he was ultimately proven wrong both theoretically and experimentally, Einstein was right to call quantum entanglement spooky. To this day, the instantaneous signals passing between entangled objects are like nothing we can explain. They’re something totally different from radio waves and light signals.

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Indeed, one would be justified in calling the connection between widely separated, entangled objects "otherworldly." I say that because quantum entanglement clearly offers us a stunning scientific explication of the age-old belief in an omniscient God.

Many people carry with them the image of a deity who is far removed from human affairs, peering down on his creation through a cosmic telescope, waiting for the light of our actions to reach him in heaven. Quantum entanglement offers us a radically different image: A God who is strongly entangled with the whole of creation — right down to the very atoms of our being — by virtue of his being the source of the universe and everything in it.

In other words, the existence of quantum entanglement offers us a fresh perspective on God’s omniscience. It suggests that God’s awareness of the universe is not obtained through observation; it’s acquired via an intimate, instantaneous, "spooky" connection.

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Just as an object instantaneously knows and feels whatever happens to its entangled partner clear across the universe, God instantaneously knows and feels everything that happens to every single atom anywhere in the universe — and beyond. There’s no distance too great, no darkness too deep, to sever that deep, fundamental connection between Creator and creation.

As fellow travelers on this journey called life, we’re tempted to maintain a firewall between the realm of science and the realm of the spirit. We’re mistaught that the former deals in cold, hard facts, while the latter deals in blind faith. But when we look closely at the invisible, underlying architecture of reality, that wall crumbles.

Science does not erase the majesty of the divine; it illuminates it. It shows us that we live in a universe filled with unseen forces, deeply interconnected and governed by mysteries that should leave us filled with awe and wonder.

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So, then, the next time you look up at the night sky, I encourage you to resist the impulse to look upon the cosmos as nothing but a collection of isolated, distant stars. Instead, allow yourself to behold it for what it really is: a grand, entangled tapestry!

Above all, consider this: The same invisible architecture that instantaneously and intimately connects physical objects across the cosmic void is of the very same design that connects you — instantaneously, intimately, and eternally — to the mind and spirit of God.

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My coworkers asked about my Christian beliefs. Then I lost my job

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:00:25 -0400

I am a sophomore at Boyce College, a Christian university in Louisville, Kentucky. In November 2024, I took a job as a barista at Heine Brothers Coffee to support myself financially and help cover the financial strains that college can bring. It was a great job that fit well with my busy class schedule and assignments. Whether I was putting smiles on customers’ faces or having fun with coworkers, my shifts went by quickly, and I enjoyed the work. I would have never guessed how it would end.

My Christian faith is a core part of who I am. My faith in Christ defines who I am and how I view the world. I am a sinner saved by grace and God has changed my heart. Ever since Christ saved me, I now seek to love others as Christ first loved us. That is my joy in life.

During a shift last October, two coworkers discovered I attend a Christian college and immediately sparked a conversation about my religious beliefs on marriage, sexuality and other sensitive topics. I’ve always been open to answering questions about my faith, so when given this opportunity to share my Christian views, I responded truthfully, respectfully, and only when invited to share.

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I believe that everyone is on their own faith journey and I respect people’s right to reach their own conclusions and have their own beliefs. I am always willing to listen to what others believe and share my faith while respecting others' decisions. I’m always intrigued to learn more about others and get to know people on a deeper level.

A specific question posed to me by my coworkers during that shift was extremely personal and uncomfortable. Regarding my views on sexuality and marriage, I was asked, "So, you are waiting till marriage then?" But because they wanted to listen, I was willing to speak the truth in love, standing firm in my beliefs. Even as we got deeper into conversations, I continued to answer all questions carefully and gently.

If the story ended there, I would just consider it a peaceful conversation between people who disagree. Unfortunately, it didn’t.

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A week later, I received a text from my manager at Heine Brothers with this abrupt message: "After careful review and investigation, we have determined that your behavior has violated Heine Bros’ policies regarding respectful workplace conduct and anti-discrimination. It was reported and confirmed that you engaged in conversations in the workplace where you expressed religious beliefs in a manner that was unwelcome and offensive to others. These conversations created discomfort among team members and contributed to a work environment inconsistent with our company values and code of conduct." And at the conclusion of the text message, with no opportunity for discussion, face-to-face meeting or open dialogue, it read, "As per our internal policies and after a thorough investigation, we have decided to terminate your employment with Heine Bros effective immediately."

I find this whole situation disheartening and frightening. I was never given the opportunity to share my side of the story, describe how the questions were asked, or explain how I simply shared my own personal beliefs. People might not agree with my religious beliefs, but alignment with my personal opinions is not the issue. The freedom for coworkers to voluntarily converse and share differing viewpoints without fear of termination is what’s at stake here.

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Heine Brothers states on its website, "Our shops are more than just places to get a great cup of coffee - they are comfortable and welcoming spaces that offer a great place to study, work from home, or relax…our shops are perfect for getting some work done or just taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life." I found this to be true during my time there. There was laughter, conversation, at times silence, and all in all an environment that Heine Brothers promised.

It’s ironic then that, when asked about my views on important topics, in the very same place where all people are ‘welcome,’ I was fired for responding to a question from a coworker. I was fired for my faith. Christians are called to speak the truth in love, and I firmly believe that is what I have done. I hope to encourage others going through a similar situation to stay firm in their faith and trust that God will do the rest.

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My simple request is that Heine Brothers offer the same safe and welcoming environment to its religious workers that it offers to its customers.

No one should be fired for respectfully sharing their religious viewpoints — especially when asked.

Surging UK Green Party pushes church-state split, critics warn of break from Britain’s Christian roots

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 08:30:10 -0400

LONDON: The left-wing British Green Party has said it wants to separate the Church of England from the state if it wins the next general election, which must be held before August 2029.

The Church of England has been the "established" church since the 16th-century Reformation, with the British monarch serving as its supreme governor. For traditionalists, this link is not merely ceremonial but is the foundational bedrock of British identity.

The Greens have come under fire for seeking to remove centuries of British history and tradition by separating the church from British politics, with critics characterizing it as the latest move against Christianity in the U.K.

GB News reported last month that the Green Party policy document stated: "No person shall hold office in the state, or be excluded from any such office, by virtue of their or their spouse's membership or non-membership of any religion or denomination of religion."

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Michael McManus, the director of research at the Henry Jackson Society, a U.K. think tank, told Fox News Digital, "Britain is a tolerant society but with clear Christian origins and culture. Aiming to disestablish the Church of England could be seen as an attempt to reject that ethical foundation without being clear what would replace it instead."

High-profile figures have also weighed in on the debate, with actor and comedian John Cleese responding to a comment about the Greens' proposal by stating on X: "The UK has always been based at the deepest level on Christian values, regardless of dogma. Despite the many mistakes made by churches, for centuries British people have been influenced by Christ's teaching. If these values are replaced by Islamic ones, this will not be Britain anymore."

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The Greens are a growing political force, placing second behind Reform UK in a recent YouGov poll. Another YouGov poll linked the Greens' rise in popularity with younger voters in the country, finding a majority of those between 18 and 24 supported them, while also doing well with women and other groups.

A spokesperson for the Green Party told Fox News Digital, "We will be setting out our detailed plans for government at the time of the next General Election, just as we did at the last General Election. As always, our members will be shaping our priorities. These will again address the real and immediate needs of people and the planet, such as tackling the climate crisis, bringing down the cost of living and rebuilding our public services, including the NHS. Our focus is on the issues that impact ordinary people most."

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Green Party leader Zack Polanski has defended a secular state. He has also drawn criticism for his support of legalizing drugs such as heroin and cocaine, his climate policies and anti-Israel positioning.

The timing of the Green Party's push is particularly sensitive as it comes on the heels of the House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Act 2026, which passed last month, removing the last hereditary aristocrats from Parliament. With the hereditary principle gone, the presence of the "Lords Spiritual" has become the next logical target for constitutional reformers. There are currently 26 seats reserved for Church of England archbishops and bishops in the House of Lords.

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As the U.K. heads toward a local 2026 election cycle, the "Church and State" debate looks set to become a wedge issue. For the Greens, it represents their commitment to a "diverse and inclusive" Britain. For their detractors, it is a dangerous move that risks "de-Christianizing" the country at a moment of profound social uncertainty.

Whether the proposal will mobilize a new "religious vote" or simply fade behind the urgency of other issues remains to be seen. What is clear, commentators say, is that the image of the established Church is increasingly being viewed through the lens of a much sharper and more polarized political fight.

Pope Leo XIV invokes Pope Francis' final words in Easter plea against growing 'indifference' to war

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 07:03:29 -0400

Pope Leo XIV gave his first Easter blessing as pontiff on Sunday, calling for peace and urging the world not to grow indifferent to the deaths of tens of thousands in violent conflicts around the world.

Leo gave the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to a crowd in St. Peter’s Square that Vatican media described as numbering over 50,000.

Leo said that in a world hurt by wars and abuses, people need hope and peace, urging against growing accustomed to violence and indifferent to the death of tens of thousands.

"On this day of celebration let us abandon every desire for conflict domination and power and implore the Lord to grant his peace to a world ravaged by wars and marked by a hatred and indifference that makes us feel powerless to the face of evil," the pope said.

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Leo reminded the faithful that "the power with which Christ rose is entirely nonviolent."

"In the light of Easter, let us allow ourselves to be amazed by Christ," he said. "Let us allow our hearts transformed by his immense love for us. Let those with weapons lay them down. Let those who have the power to unleash wars choose peace. Not a peace imposed by force, but through dialogue. Not through a desire to dominate others, but to encounter them."

Leo also invoked what he said were the final words that Pope Francis issued to the world from the same balcony one year ago, during which the late pontiff warned of a "globalization of indifference."

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"What a great thirst for death, for killing we witness each day in the many conflicts raging in different parts of the world," Leo said, quoting Francis.

Leo concluded the blessing by wishing everyone a happy Easter in 10 different languages and singing the Regina Ceoli.

Leo earlier held his first Easter Mass as pope, in which he called for the faithful to exercise hope against "the violence of war that kills and destroys,’’ adding that in the face of conflicts spreading around the world, "we need this song of hope today."

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Leo has repeatedly called for a halt in hostilities as the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran enters its second month and Russia continues its violent campaign in Ukraine.

Fox News' Courtney Walsh contributed to this report.

Finnish lawmaker convicted on hate speech for 2004 pamphlet calling homosexuality a 'disorder'

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 11:00:46 -0400

Finland Member of Parliament Päivi Räsänen was convicted by the country's Supreme Court on a count of hate speech for a decades-old pamphlet referring to homosexuality as a "developmental disorder."

The Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) International, which represents Räsänen, announced the narrow 3-2 ruling on Thursday.

Räsänen was previously acquitted on the charge by two lower courts.

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The charge centered on a pamphlet Räsänen originally published in 2004 titled, "Male and Female He Created Them: Homosexual Relationships Challenge the Christian Understanding of Humanity," where she argued that homosexuality could be considered a "negative developmental disorder."

"[T]he scientific material unequivocally proves that homosexuality is a disorder of psycho-sexual development. Those who claim that homosexuality is a natural 'healthy' variety of sexuality nullify the evidentiary value found in family background studies for political reasons," Räsänen wrote.

According to ADF International, the court found Räsänen guilty of having "made available to the public and kept available to the public opinions that insult homosexuals as a group on the basis of their sexual orientation," though the pamphlet was published years before the law was passed.

LAWMAKER ON TRIAL IN EUROPE FOR RELIGIOUS VIEWS A 'CAUTIONARY TALE' FOR THE US, SAYS LAWYER

"I am shocked and profoundly disappointed that the court has failed to recognize my basic human right to freedom of expression. I stand by the teachings of my Christian faith, and will continue to defend my and every person’s right to share their convictions in the public square," Räsänen said in a statement after the ruling.

Räsänen added that she plans to appeal the case to the European Court of Human Rights to help prevent "other innocent people from experiencing the same ordeal for simply sharing their beliefs."

In an editorial on Friday, The Washington Post opined of Räsänen, "That she was prosecuted for either is the real crime." The editorial was titled, "A free-speech farce in Finland."

Mentioning the co-defendent in the case, the editorial added, "If Finland is able to do this to a sitting member of its legislature and a clergyman who chairs an international organization with millions of members, no less notable person can feel comfortable expressing similar views in public."

The court imposed an approximately $2,100 fine on Räsänen and demanded that the pamphlet be "removed from public access and destroyed."

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Fox News Digital reached out to the Supreme Court of Finland and the Office of the Prosecutor General of Finland for comment.

Räsänen was also unanimously acquitted by the court for a 2019 tweet where she questioned her church’s sponsorship of an LGBTQ Pride event, and linked to an Instagram post with a picture of Romans 1:24-27.

Executive Director of ADF International Paul Coleman celebrated Räsänen's acquittal but lamented her charge as an "example of state censorship."

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"Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democracy. It is right that the Court has acquitted Päivi Räsänen for her 2019 Bible verse tweet. However, the conviction for a simple church pamphlet published decades ago – before the law under which she has been convicted was even passed – is an outrageous example of state censorship. This decision will create a severe chilling effect for everyone’s right to speak freely," Coleman said.

Catholic conversions rise as young adults 'hungry for truth' turn to faith and reject secularism, bishop says

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 09:00:23 -0400

Catholic leaders across the U.S. are reporting sharp increases in the number of adult converts, a trend that they say is driven primarily by young adults.

The Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey, reported 1,701 individuals were preparing to join the Church, a 30% increase since 2025, according to The Catholic Standard. Other archdioceses reporting similar rises include Cleveland, Ohio, Boston, Massachusetts, and Portland, Oregon, according to the outlet.

"Last year, we broke the record for the number of adult converts, and then this year — so, we have what's called the rite of election, that's when all the people are entering into the church — we broke that record again. So, it's a trend that's visible all over the church and it's certainly been true in my diocese," Bishop Robert Barron told Fox News Digital.

Catholic ministries on college campuses, including Texas A&M University, University of Notre Dame and Arizona State University, are also reporting increasing converts, The Catholic Standard reported. Notre Dame saw its largest group of new Catholics in at least 25 years, with 125 receiving the sacraments last Easter, according to The Catholic Standard. The outlet noted that, this year, Notre Dame expects there to be 163 candidates and catechumens, which are unbaptized individuals undergoing conversion.

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Barron said that when speaking to new adult converts about their decision, many describe themselves as "hungry for truth." He argued the trend is, in part, a reaction to the rise of atheism in the early 2000s, with younger generations having "inherited this bleakly secularized world" and now "leading the charge" back to religion.

The bishop pointed to St. Augustine, saying the theologian’s words still ring true today.

"St. Augustine said, ‘Lord, you've made us for yourself, and therefore our heart is restless till it rests in you,’ and that remains true," Barron said. "There's a longing in the heart that can't be satisfied by anything in this world, and so religion speaks to that."

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The bishop also explained that many young adults are looking for something steady with strong roots as they navigate the modern world and its online distractions. In his view, Catholicism has been attracting new converts because of its 2,000-year-old traditions.

"Our culture today is very ephemeral, right? It's evanescent... Catholicism speaks to something much deeper, and older, and more permanent," he said. "I also think that people are attracted to the ritual expression of Catholicism. So, the beauty of our liturgy, we're not just gathering in a bland room and singing pop songs, we're entering into this ancient, beautiful ritual involving vestments and incense and candles and ancient prayers and ancient chants. And I do think that appeals to people's souls, especially young people."

Even as he spoke about the beauty of the Church, Barron touched on the scandals of sexual abuse that came to light especially in the early 2000s. He said the scandals were important for the Church to acknowledge and deal with, but that for young adult converts, they were "more of a memory" and "less of a lived, immediate reality."

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In 2025, Pew Research Center issued findings on Catholic converts in the U.S., saying that 1.5% of all adults in the country fit into the category. According to Pew's 2025 report, 92% of U.S. Catholics were raised in the faith, while the remaining 8% had converted. The research center said that when asked why they converted to Catholicism, "the most common response offered by converts is because of a spouse, or to get married in the Church." Meanwhile, others said Catholicism made sense to them or that it aligned with their values.

Now that the Church has attracted these new converts, it is tasked with retaining them. Barron said that first and foremost, the Church must listen to them.

"I think it needs to listen to them. You know, that's something Pope Francis kept emphasizing, correctly, that first you listen and find out what's attracted them, find out maybe what kept them away for a long time, what made a difference," Barron told Fox News Digital.

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Barron emphasized that, ultimately, the Church exists for the purpose of bringing people into the faith.

"The Church is about the business of evangelization. That's what we are. I mean, every Catholic institution exists for the purpose of evangelization, meaning bringing people to Christ. And so, the people who are coming back to the Church, that makes me the happiest. That's why what the Catholic Church exists for, is to invite people back," the bishop said.

DR. MARC SIEGEL: What I admire most about Shannon Bream’s powerful stories of faith and healing

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 10:00:50 -0400

In her new bestselling book, "Nothing Is Impossible with God," Fox News anchor, attorney and author Shannon Bream tells the story of 11 heroes of the Bible, including two of everyone’s favorites, Joseph and Moses.

But she begins the book with a story of her own, overcoming, at the age of 39, severe, persistent eye pain that was causing her to become depressed. With her hope petering out, message boards led her to seek out one last cornea specialist, Dr. Thomas Clinch of Eye Doctors of Washington.

The fact that she only got in to see him right away because he had a cancellation was another sign from God. Indeed, Clinch was himself one of God’s messengers, and he diagnosed her with a condition other doctors had missed — map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy, also known as Cogan’s dystrophy.

This condition involves tiny erosive scratches on the surface of the cornea. The outer cornea sticks to the lower layers and begins to rub off, especially during deep sleep. Clinch’s treatment was Muro 128 ointment to use at night, eye drops and tear duct plugs to help her eyes retain moisture.

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Shannon Bream is one of the kindest, most sincere, humble yet intelligent anchors, authors and lawyers you could ever meet. Her gratitude to God for her reclaimed life after her successful treatment is palpable. It also leads directly to the stories of this important book, where her strong faith motivates her to seek and explore the biblical heroes who inspire her the most.

She has an important take on Moses, a story that began "with a bold, brave mother who defied the law of the day requiring all Hebrew male babies to be thrown into the Nile River — a certain death."

Of course, Moses’s mother and the midwives didn’t comply. He was hidden and then placed in a basket, which Pharaoh’s daughter famously found, and he became her adopted son. But, as Bream points out, he never lost the link to his own people, killing an Egyptian for beating a Hebrew.

When Pharaoh learned of this, he tried to kill Moses, who became a fugitive. Shannon’s analysis of Moses’ life is filled with insight: "Moses was faithful, working for his father-in-law as a shepherd. We see no grumbling about how great life used to be at the palace, no daydreaming about going back to the life of a prince — just the methodical work of a dutiful man. God can and will show up whenever you are laboring, whether or not you think anyone else is aware of your diligence."

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Here, Bream is referring to the burning bush, and as she does throughout the book, she quotes from the Bible: "God called to him from within the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’ And Moses said, ‘Here I am.’ (Exodus 3:1-4)

"I am nearly 100 percent certain I would not have had such a calm reaction," Bream writes, combining her personal irony with a reverence for scripture, as she does throughout the book.

She does it again with the Exodus itself, writing, "But the Lord had a plan that wouldn’t look like any other rebellion in history. It would start with what any strategist would tell you is a terrible mistake — letting your enemy know you’re coming."

Indeed, as God told Moses, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt." (Exodus 3:10)

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When it comes to her chapter on Joseph in Genesis, Bream again personalizes a section of the Bible. When his brothers (who kidnapped him and sold him into slavery) came to visit Egypt to get grain during the legendary famine, they didn’t recognize him.

Bream describes Joseph’s weeping because he understood what his brothers were saying in Hebrew, of course, despite his show of using an interpreter and speaking Egyptian as his primary language to preserve his disguise. And despite Joseph’s mistrust and hurt, he still treated them with hesed (loving kindness). But their own guilty consciences made Joseph’s kindness seem sinister to them.

And quoting Genesis 42:28: "Their hearts sank, and they turned to each other, trembling, and said, ‘What is this that God has done to us?’"

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Above all, Shannon Bream preserves the sense of the Bible as the great narrative it is, filled with inspirational heroes, leaders and prophets.

Her own life of overcoming makes her the perfect person to write this compelling book.

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Pete Hegseth slashes military 'faith codes' from over 200 to 31 in Pentagon Chaplain Corps overhaul

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:00:21 -0400

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is slashing the number of faith code affiliations at the Pentagon from over 200 to just 31.

"The previous system had ballooned to well over 200 faith codes. … It was impractical and unusable, and many codes were never used at all," Hegseth said in an announcement Wednesday posted on X.

Hegseth said most service members, 82% of whom say they are religious, use only six of the codes.

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The Secretary of War said he is streamlining the number of faith code affiliations down to just 31.

"This brings the codes in line with its original purpose, giving chaplains clear, usable information so they can minister to service members in a way that aligns with that service member's faith background and religious practice," Hegseth said.

Another change Hegseth announced was directing military chaplains to replace the rank insignia featured on their uniforms with their religious insignia.

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"A chaplain is first and foremost a chaplain, and an officer second," Hegseth said. "This change is a visual representation of that fact.

"Specifically unique to the role of a chaplain, they are first and foremost called and ordained by God. And while they will retain rank as an officer to those they serve, their rank will not be visible."

He said these changes are just the beginning.

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"These two reforms are big progress, but we're not even close to being done. These are the first steps toward restoring the esteemed position of chaplain as moral anchors of our fighting force," Hegseth said.

"Theirs is a high and sacred calling, but they can only be successful if they are given the freedom to boldly guide and care for their flock."

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Beloved student Jimmy Gracey’s standing room only memorials span campus church service, fraternity vigil

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:36:53 -0400

Fraternity brothers and the University of Alabama community at large this week have honored the life of James "Jimmy" Gracey, who died on spring break last week in Barcelona, Spain, with a packed memorial mass and later a vigil hosted by the school's Theta Chi chapter.

Tuesday night, hundreds of Gracey's Greek life brothers organized a remembrance event outside the Theta Chi house in Tuscaloosa.

Tearful friends of the 20-year-old junior turned out as the community continued to grapple with the loss of the "vibrant" young man.

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Mourners gathered under a tent on the lawn of the home while an overflow crowd stood and watched the proceedings.

Speakers, including the international president of Theta Chi Fraternity, Toby Roth, offered heartfelt tributes to Gracey, while grieving students looked on. University of Alabama President Peter Mohler was also in attendance, according to a local report.

"Jimmy was always smiling — like, just a big smiler," one speaker said. "And Jimmy was so compassionate. I mean, he was really compassionate for the guys in his fraternity. For the Theta Chi guys, specifically those living in the house, anytime music got turned on, you knew you would see Jimmy come out dancing in the hallway."

"Something that attests to his integrity is one, he was one of the guys I would always say yes to when he asked to use my car. Whether that was to get a Cook Out shake, Jimmy John's sub, or just to go get a haircut... My gas tank was always a little more full than when I left it the last time I drove. That was the kind of guy Jimmy was. You never needed to say anything, you know."

A Catholic mass was held Monday evening at St. Francis of Assisi University Parish in Tuscaloosa, home to the school, and featured standing room only attendance.

"The church was absolutely packed, which was such a blessing and a gift, to see the impact that one person can have on so many," Avery Jung, a University of Alabama junior, told The Crimson White, the school's newspaper.

"Jimmy was one of the most incredible guys I've ever met," said Reagan McCloskey, one of Gracey's fraternity brothers. "There's so much to be learned from Jim, but the aspect of his life that stands out to me the most was that he cared about others more than himself."

Police are currently not pursuing criminal charges in the case, pending the autopsy and a toxicology report, as previously reported by Fox News Digital.

Gracey vanished after a night out with friends in the early morning of March 17. He was partying at the city's popular Shoko nightclub before he disappeared, sparking a fervent search and global media attention.

Authorities located his body in a marina close to the club on Thursday.

Local police said a preliminary autopsy indicates that the college junior's death was likely accidental.

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"Everything points to an accidental death, although we are not disclosing details regarding how the events unfolded," a spokesperson for the Mossos d'Esquadra, the regional Catalan police, previously said.

The police said that Gracey's wallet with his money, credit cards and other documents were found along with his body, signifying an accident instead of a targeted attack.

His cellphone was recovered when authorities arrested an unnamed individual known to them for previous criminal charges. Officials determined the individual was not involved in Gracey’s disappearance.

A local Spanish news outlet, citing police sources, said authorities have video of Gracey walking alone toward the dock at Port Olimpic before falling in the water. No such video has been released.

Gracey was beloved by his Theta Chi fraternity brothers, and served as the organization's chaplain and philanthropy chairman.

"These roles reflected who he was at his core: a young man of deep faith, genuine care for others, and an abiding commitment to his brothers and his community," the fraternity said in a statement. "He was exactly the kind of man Theta Chi aspires to build—a Resolute Man."

Meanwhile, in a heartfelt tribute on a memorial page created by friends of the Gracey family, Gracey's parents shared a story of his exemplary character, calling him "vibrant."

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"A shining example of his character was reflected during a hockey game when Jimmy was about 10 years old. He liked hockey. He LOVED competition. And he REALLY LOVED winning," the tribute says. "At that age, he had a rocket of a shot. He was in a tight game. He had the puck. He wound up and let it fly. No one ever stopped his shots...except this time. Instead of getting angry and slamming his stick on the ice, he skated over to the opposing goalie and gave him a fist bump. An ‘atta boy’ for stopping a missile. The ultimate sign of hockey respect. Jimmy knew he was beaten and respected the heck out of the other goalie for doing it…at ten years old when a temper tantrum still would have been accepted. Then, he went home and practiced his shot."

CBS News' Margaret Brennan accused of mocking people of faith after Pete Hegseth's prayer remarks

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:28:39 -0400

CBS News’ "Face the Nation" moderator Margaret Brennan raised eyebrows on Thursday with a bizarre social media post that many believed was critical of people of faith.

The saga began when Secretary of War Pete Hegseth spoke about Operation Epic Fury during a somber early morning press conference in which he vowed to "honor" the sacrifice of six U.S. service members killed in a plane crash last week.

"May Almighty God continue to bless our troops in this fight. And again, to the American people, please pray for them, every day, on bended knee, with your family, in your schools, in your churches, in the name of Jesus Christ. To the troops, keep going and Godspeed," Hegseth said to wrap up his remarks.

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Brennan responded on X, "The Secretary of Defense tells the American public to pray for our troops on bended knee and invoke Jesus' name...."

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders responded, "Only in DC is something like this considered even remotely offensive."

Rep. Brandon Gill added, "Democrats are reflexively repulsed when they hear someone invoke Christ’s name. What does that tell you?"

The official White House rapid response account also took a jab at Brennan.

"Only a leftist ‘reporter’ would be offended by praying for our troops," Rapid Response 47 wrote.

Hegseth’s press secretary, Kingsley Wilson, noted that it was the same request "Americans have been doing since George Washington prayed for our troops at Valley Forge."

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"Every now and then, they just come right out and tell you what they think about you and your beliefs. Imagine what they say in private," conservative pundit Jesse Kelly reacted.

The Federalist co-founder Sean Davis responded, "Go cry about it. We’d be in a much better place as a country if all our leaders did this."

Conservative radio host Erick Erickson suggested the CBS anchor "thinks this is controversial," while GOP strategist Steve Guest said "she is attacking people of faith."

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"If this seems even mildly controversial, it would legitimately blow your mind to read what the men who founded our nation did, said, and prayed in the name of Jesus Christ while governing," pastor Josh Howerton wrote.

Many others took to X with feedback for Brennan:

CBS News did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Brennan, who has famously sparred with members of the Trump administration in the past, was voted by "Ruthless" podcast listeners to be the biggest "hack" in the media industry last year.

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Fox News Digital’s Greg Norman and Joseph A. Wulfsohn contributed to this report .

Truck smashes into famed synagogue, police charge man with hate crime: 'Very distressing'

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:13:34 -0500

A man has been criminally charged after allegedly damaging the famed Brisbane Synagogue in Australia on Friday night.

A 32-year-old Sunnybank man, whose name has not yet been released, is charged with willful damage, serious vilification or hate crime, dangerous operation of a vehicle, possession of dangerous drugs and possession of utensils or pipes etc. for use, according to a statement from Queensland Police.

Authorities said just after 7:15 p.m. local time Friday, a black Toyota Hilux utility truck struck and knocked down the gates of the synagogue, located on Margaret Street, before leaving the scene.

Police quickly tracked down the car and took the driver into custody without incident.

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No one was injured during the incident, according to officials.

The suspect, who is believed to have acted alone, will face Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday.

There is no ongoing threat to the community.

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"The Queensland Police Service is focused on ensuring community safety and continues to support and engage with all local religious communities," the agency wrote.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said he was briefed on the incident, noting the incident was "very distressing for the Jewish community in Queensland."

Crisafulli added he spoke with Jewish leaders, as well as police, and assured Queenslanders the incident is being taken seriously.

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"This is another signal as to why we have put strong laws before Parliament to protect all people where they worship," Crisafulli wrote in a statement on X. "We are going through the process and I fully intend to have them passed during the next sitting of Parliament."

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Pastor accused of 'inciting religious hatred' with UK street sermon, legal advocacy group says

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 08:13:32 -0500

A Christian pastor arrested in Bristol, England, in November on suspicion of "inciting religious hatred" after delivering a street sermon is still awaiting a decision on whether he will face criminal charges, according to a legal advocacy group supporting him.

Pastor Dia Moodley, 58, was detained for eight hours and released on bail conditions that temporarily barred him from entering the city during the Christmas period.

ADF UK, the British arm of the faith-based legal organization Alliance Defending Freedom, is representing Moodley.

The group advocates for religious freedom and free speech rights and argues that the pastor’s case reflects what it describes as a broader pattern of police action that risks criminalizing lawful religious expression.

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Although the initial bail restrictions were later dropped, police visited Moodley again in January and invited him to attend a voluntary interview under caution as they continued to investigate the November incident.

The case marks the second time he has been arrested over his street preaching, ADF UK said, and follows previous disputes with police over restrictions placed on his public comments about other religions.

Avon and Somerset Police told Fox News Digital on Tuesday that they could neither confirm nor deny the identity of anyone arrested but, based on the date and location provided, issued the following statement:

"A 58-year-old man was arrested at about 2.30pm on Saturday 22 November in Broadmead, Bristol, on suspicion of assault by beating and of a racially/religiously aggravated public order offence," police said. "He was later released on police bail until the end of December, with a condition not to attend areas of Bristol city centre including Broadmead. These conditions however were ultimately lifted by a supervisory officer in mid-December following representations from the arrested man."

The agency said the man is no longer on bail after being released under investigation in early January, adding that a counter-allegation has been recorded and inquiries are ongoing. The statement did not provide further details about the alleged assault.

The public order offense referenced by police falls under the Public Order Act 1986.

It's defined by the government under Section 29B as, "A person who uses threatening words or behaviour, or displays any written material which is threatening, is guilty of an offence if he intends thereby to stir up religious hatred [or hatred on the grounds of sexual orientation]."

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Jeremiah Igunnubole, legal counsel for ADF International, said Pastor Dia’s arrest for "peacefully commenting on Islam and transgender ideology" shows police are using public order legislation to impose "de facto blasphemy laws" in the U.K.

"This is far from an isolated incident," Igunnubole said. "It is part of a clear pattern of behavior from Avon and Somerset Police, who for years have targeted Pastor Dia for his peaceful expression in the public square and have failed in their duty to investigate serious crimes committed against him by those who objected to his speech."

Catholics, conservatives cheer ouster of ex-Miss California from WH religious panel after panel controversy

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:58:04 -0500

The Trump administration swiftly removed Carrie Prejen Boller, a former Miss California winner, from a White House religious council amid accusations she worked to "hijack" a hearing on antisemitism, earning applause from religious leaders and conservatives.

"Carrie Prejean was thrown off the Religious Liberty Commission, and thank God," a former Trump White House official told Fox News Digital in reaction to the ouster. "These commissions exist to advance the President’s agenda, not to serve as a personal Jew-hating platform."

Prejean Boller was ousted from the White House Religious Liberty Commission after she worked to "hijack a hearing" held Monday regarding antisemitism in the U.S. to promote her "own personal and political agenda on any issue," according to chair of the commission, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.

Prejean Boller is the 2009 Miss California USA winner who was stripped of her crown over allegations of breaching contract. She gained nationwide attention in 2009 for speaking out against legalizing gay marriage from the pageant's stage.

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Trump owned the Miss Universe Organization at the time and defended Prejean Boller, then Carrie Prejean.

Trump established the religious liberty commission in May via an executive order directing the Department of Justice to provide support to the newly formed body focused on upholding "Federal laws that protect all citizens’ full participation in a pluralistic democracy, and protect the free exercise of religion."

The commission held a hearing Monday at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., on combating antisemitism and upholding religious freedom, where Prejean Boller wore a Palestinian flag pin and got into tense exchanges.

Prejean Boller converted to Catholicism from evangelical Christianity in April and invoked her Catholic faith in comments rejecting Zionism during the hearing.

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"I am a Catholic, and Catholics don’t embrace Zionism," she said.

Catholic League President Bill Donohue swiftly called for her ouster in an opinion piece published on his organization's website, underscoring that she did not represent Catholics in her remarks.

"Prejean Boller is a former Miss California and a convert to Catholicism," he wrote Wednesday. "She does not run a Catholic organization, has no Catholic credentials as an author or instructor, and indeed represents no one but herself. For her to say, without qualification, that ‘Catholics do not embrace Zionism,’ is presumptuous and arrogant."

"Zionism is a movement that promotes Jewish self-determination in a homeland," he said. "There are millions of Catholics like myself who, even if they do not identify themselves as Zionists, recognize the Jewish state of Israel. Prejean Boller apparently does not—she is more comfortable showing up at the Religious Liberty Commission wearing a Palestinian flag pin. So telling."

Shawn Carney, president and CEO of 40 Days for Life pro-life group, added in comment to Fox Digital that her "claim that Catholics are against Jews is absurd."

"This division is a recent fad and an online invention," Carney said. "For centuries, Catholics have understood that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Davidic kingdom and that our faith comes from the Jews. Catholic teaching holds that the Church is the fulfillment of the promises of the Old Covenant. To suddenly claim that Catholics are against Jews is absurd — it is a modern, internet-based error."

He added that Trump has a very strong track record of hiring and appointing Catholics to his administration, noting "no president in modern history has done more to protect religious liberty for both Catholics and Jews."

At one point, Prejean Boller got into a heated exchange with Shabbos Kestenbaum, a former Harvard student who sued the university over its response to antisemitism.

"Are you willing to condemn what Israel has done in Gaza?" Prejean Boller asked Kestenbaum during the hearing. "You won’t condemn that? Just on the record."

She also defended Candace Owens when pressed by Babylon Bee founder and CEO Seth Dillon if the commentator had ever made antisemitic remarks.

"Do you think anything Candace has said is antisemitic?" he asked her, after referring to Owens as one of the "most famous antisemites" in the current political landscape.

"No, I don’t," Prejean Boller replied.

The former Trump White House official continued in comments to Fox Digital that backing Israel has long been a priority for President Donald Trump.

"President Donald Trump has been clear for decades that he stands proudly with the Jewish people and with America’s closest ally, Israel," the former official said. "Supporting Israel and standing with Jewish Americans is not just morally right, it is America First."

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"President Trump delivered historic victories for the Jewish people. He recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moved the U.S. Embassy there. He recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. He brokered the Abraham Accords and reshaped the Middle East. He kept his promise to bring every last hostage home and made clear that antisemitism at home will be confronted head on, including holding universities accountable when Jewish students are targeted."

Conservatives and others on social media celebrated her ouster while condemning her remarks at the hearing.

"The only one who brought up Zionism at the event was… Carrie Prejean Boller," account Bonchie posted. "Classic grifter play happening here. Cause a scene of her own making, claim to be the victim, profit. A story as old as time."

"Whatever you think of the rest of Carrie Prejean Boller's views, wearing a Palestinian flag to a hearing on religious liberty is disgraceful," Jim Hanson, president of WorldStrat information warfare firm and chief editor of the Middle East Forum, posted.

Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz said that while he does not personally know Prejean Boller, what he saw of her actions was "just sad."

"There are 57 Muslim countries on Earth; this poor thing has been deluded into thinking that the fact that Israel exists — in the promised land given to the Jewish people thousands of years ago by Jehovah — is somehow the source of all her troubles." he wrote. "And no, Catholics don’t hate Israel. As Charlie Kirk said repeatedly, antisemitism is a brain rot, and someone has been pouring this poison into her head."

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Patrick said he personally made the decision to remove her, while Prejean Boller responded on X that only the president could order her removal.

"You did not appoint me to the Commission, and you lack authority to remove me from it," Prejean Boller wrote on X in response to Patrick. "This is a gross overstepping of your role and leads me to believe you are acting in alignment with a Zionist political framework that hijacked the hearing, rather than in defense of religious liberty."

Cruz shot back on X: "Let’s be clear: it was President Trump who fired her."

The former Miss California has continued to stick by her remarks, saying she "will never bend the knee to the state of Israel. Ever."

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"Christians have been manipulated into believing that God blesses bombing, starvation, and mass killing," Prejean posted to X. "That is the opposite of Christ, who came to stand with the suffering and confront power. I reject that lie completely. I am not owned by money, donors, or access. I belong to Christ alone who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. I would rather die than bend the knee to Israel."

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for additional comment on the matter Thursday, and attempted to reach Prejean Boller Friday for comment.

Why Bad Bunny’s ‘God Bless America’ moment at the Super Bowl sparked controversy

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:00:25 -0500

Bad Bunny could be heard speaking English briefly during his Super Bowl halftime show Sunday night, shouting, "God bless America." But his usage of the term — heard for decades as the ultimate patriotic American phrase — stirred debate over its context.

The Grammy Award-winning artist, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, invoked the traditionally U.S.-centric phrase toward the end of his performance.

He then named countries across North, Central and South America — including Chile, Argentina, Venezuela, Nicaragua and Mexico, as well as the United States and Canada — before ending the show by spiking a football that read, "Together, we are America."

BAD BUNNY'S SUPER BOWL HALFTIME SHOW IGNITES TRUMP'S FURY, DIVIDES VIEWERS

The singer’s use of the phrase, "God Bless America," and performance called on a larger definition of what "America" means and was widely interpreted as a reframe — drawing criticism and applause from media, politicians and others. The show also featured people waving the flags of various countries, including the U.S.

"And also, this is America. Not the United Nations. If you legally immigrate here from another Nation, fine. You’re welcome here," Texas State Rep. Jeff Leach wrote on X. "But when you become a citizen, you stop flying your native flag, and you fly the American flag. What in God’s name is the NFL thinking?!?!"

"One thing non-Hispanics may not fully grasp is that when Bad Bunny said ‘God bless America’ and listed dozens of countries, he was invoking a very old trope of the Latin American left, which insists Americans arrogantly claimed the name of two continents for ourselves," one X user noted.

The progressive Headquarters X account, formerly home of the pro-Kamala Harris account KamalaHQ, praised the moment as sending a "message" of love.

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The usage of the phrase and his listing of countries from both continents also drew extensive media discussion and analysis.

"He then, however, referenced all the countries in the Americas, not just the United States. It was a pointed message of unity and togetherness," Mashable wrote.

Forbes contributor Hannah Abraham said the song, "God Bless America," was an American pastime for sporting events, but Bad Bunny’s interpretation "reimagined" America.

"There's a long tradition of ‘God Bless America’ being performed at sporting events, particularly the Super Bowl. It's typically sung in English by artists representing traditional American values and aesthetics," Abraham wrote. "Bad Bunny’s version — a spoken phrase rather than the song fully sung, delivered in English after an hour of Spanish, followed immediately by a celebration of Latin nations before circling back to ‘USA’ — reimagined what blessing America can look like."

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Bad Bunny’s use of the phrase followed months of debate surrounding his relationship with U.S. politics.

Only months before the Super Bowl, during a rendition of "God Bless America," at a New York Yankees game, Bad Bunny ignited controversy for his refusal to stand. When accepting his 2026 Grammy, he opened by declaring, "Before I say thanks to God, I gotta say, ICE out. We’re not savages. We’re not animals. We’re not aliens. We are humans, and we are Americans… The only thing that is more powerful than hate is love." The final phrase also appeared on the jumbotron during his halftime show.

Bad Bunny also declined to schedule U.S. tour dates for his 2025-26 concert run out of fear of ICE immigration raids at his shows.

OPINION: WHY BAD BUNNY’S POLARIZING SUPER BOWL HALFTIME SHOW FELT LIKE A SLAP AT AMERICA

When written by Irving Berlin in 1918, the song was not necessarily intended to be a protest song or cultural moment, but to be something of a patriotic prayer to express gratitude and unity during trying times.

In contrast, Media Research Center News analyst Jorge Bonilla wrote in a Fox News op-ed, "His shout of ‘God Bless America!’ really meant ‘América,’ as in the Americas, not the United States. A grand finale that was stilted, confusing, and subtly but passively-aggressively anti-American."

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Fox News Digital has reached out to Bad Bunny’s representatives for comment.

Rabbi attacked on NYC street on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:00:19 -0500

A rabbi was attacked in New York City on Tuesday, coinciding with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, in what local officials described as a "targeted act of hate."

The assault happened just before 3 p.m. at an intersection in the Forest Hills neighborhood of Queens, the New York City Police Department said.

Responding officers found a 32-year-old male victim who had been approached by an unknown individual who made antisemitic comments. After a verbal dispute, the individual then punched the victim in the chest and face, according to police. The victim, who community leaders identified as a rabbi, was treated for minor injuries, while officers took the suspect into custody.

Police identified the suspect as Eric Zafra-Grosso, 32, of Queens. He faces charges of hate crime assault, hate crime aggravated harassment and assault causing injury.

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U.S. Rep. Grace Meng, New York State Sens. Joseph Addabbo Jr. and Leroy Comrie Jr., New York State Assemblymembers Andrew Hevesi and Sam Berger, and New York City Council Member Lynn Schulman issued a joint statement condemning the attack.

"We are outraged by the antisemitic attack that occurred in our district, in which a Rabbi was verbally harassed, physically assaulted, and threatened for being Jewish," the statement said. "This was a targeted act of hate, and it has no place in our community or anywhere in New York City."

NETANYAHU SOUNDS ALARM ON ANTISEMITISM AT HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY GATHERING

"No one should ever fear for their safety because of their religion, identity, or beliefs," the lawmakers said in the statement. "The rise in antisemitic incidents across our city and country is deeply concerning, and this attack — occurring on Holocaust Remembrance Day — underscores the urgent responsibility we all share to confront hate before it escalates into violence."

According to public data from the NYPD, there have been 22 reported hate crimes in New York City from the start of the year through Jan. 25.

Antisemitic incidents comprised 62% of all hate crimes in the city during the first quarter of 2025, according to a report released last month by former New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

"I was disgusted to learn of yet another antisemitic attack in New York City, this time on a rabbi in Queens during International Holocaust Remembrance Day," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., posted on X Wednesday morning. "As we commemorate the 6 million Jews who were murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust, we must recognize that antisemitism is still alive and on the rise today. It is imperative we do everything in our power to combat these rancid acts of antisemitism and hate in all its forms."

Schumer added that he is "grateful" the rabbi is okay and thanked the NYPD.

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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani posted that he was "horrified" by the attack.

"On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, New Yorkers were confronted with a painful truth: antisemitism is not a thing of the past—it is a present danger that demands action from all of us," Mamdani said. "There is no place for antisemitism in our city. I stand in solidarity with Jewish New Yorkers and my administration is committed to rooting out this hatred."

Duke Divinity School offers course asking, can 'theology be queered?'

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:00:11 -0500

A course offered by Duke Divinity School is exploring "queer theology," and whether "theology can be queered."

The course, "From Baptismal Font to Queer Theology," "examines and excavates 'queer' in relationship to theology and theory."

Offered by the Durham, North Carolina-based school, the course description asks questions such as, "Is queer driven by identity politics, an umbrella term for sexual identity, gender identity, antinormativity politics, social locations, or is queer descriptive of something entirely different?"

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Other questions to be examined include, "Does queer have an agenda? Secondly, this course seeks to answer the question of whether or not theology can be queered? What would that result, if that is something that is possible? What is queer theology? Is queer theology even possible?"

According to the course page, students will "develop strategies for asking questions in a way that broadens the discussion of queerness and theology for a productive intervention in the discipline of constructive theology seeking to hold faithfully to the intersecting realities of church, tradition, and scripture."

The school's website says, "Grounded in Christian Scripture and theology and guided by our desire to embody a faithful witness in a changing world, we seek to cultivate innovative approaches to ministry in its many forms."

The course was flagged in an article by Campus Reform.

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The school adds that it strives for a theological vision "that is neither narrow nor homogeneous, but one that is deeply rooted in critical engagement with Scripture and honors a range of theological traditions in conversation with a plurality of historical, geographic, and social settings."

Another offered course is called "Queering the Old Testament" which explores "ways to interpret the Old Testament that acknowledge the diversity of gender expressions and honor the experiences and hermeneutical perspectives of sexual minorities and gender-nonconforming individuals."

Fox News Digital reached out to a representative of the school for comment.

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY NAMES NEW PRESIDENT THAT WILL TAKE OVER IN JULY 2026 AMID FEDERAL SCRUTINY

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BISHOP BARRON: Minnesota’s crises demand real change, not more division

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:00:34 -0500

As a resident of Minnesota and as the bishop of the diocese of Winona-Rochester, I’ve been just heartbroken about the present situation in my home state. We seem to be lurching from crisis to crisis, with little hope of resolution. The atmosphere is thick with corruption, violence, threats of retribution, angry shouting and scapegoating.

The two outrages that dominate are, of course, the massive institutional corruption that has been revealed over the last several months and the recent incursion of ICE agents that has inspired passionate protest. I will address the latter issue in due course, and I am reluctant to permit it to distract attention from the first.

It appears certain that hundreds of millions of dollars have been siphoned from the taxpayers of Minnesota through one of the greatest public frauds ever perpetrated in our country. Enormous amounts of money were directed to phony front organizations and then to fraudsters both inside Minnesota and outside the country. One of the most disturbing features of this episode is that a journalist, Christopher F. Rufo, and Nick Shirley, an independent investigative reporter, broke the case by doing what ordinary inspectors and public officials in the state should have been doing for years: simply verifying where the money was going.

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I realize that, to some, this kind of financial malfeasance can seem a relatively harmless "white-collar" crime, but nothing could be further from the truth. Catholic social teaching is adamant that public corruption constitutes a grave threat to society and especially to the poor. It undermines confidence in our leaders and the political process, compromises the integrity of the institutions of government and subverts the rule of law. Even more importantly, it deeply harms those most in need, effectively stealing resources from them and blocking essential services such as health care and education.

Moreover, if the kind of fraud on display in Minnesota is discovered in other states as well, we are dealing with an astonishing violation of human rights and an attack on the needy. I would sincerely hope that opposition to this sort of evil should not be a matter of partisan politics. I see no reason why Democrats, Republicans, independents and progressives shouldn’t stand shoulder to shoulder in confronting this corruption.

Alas, Minnesota’s turmoil does not end with financial scandal alone. The tragic shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent during a federal immigration enforcement operation — and the ensuing protests and clashes between demonstrators, local officials and federal agents — has heightened tensions and brought yet another crisis to the forefront of public life in our state.

The situation is being driven by a volatile mix of illegal immigrants, political leaders, protesters and federal agents all colliding in the same small space at the same time. In response to the crisis prompted by the arrival of ICE agents in large numbers in Minnesota, might I make some simple suggestions?

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First, along with my brother bishops, I strongly defend our nation’s right to maintain the border and to enforce immigration regulations. I do not subscribe to the effectively open border policy that held sway during the Biden administration. But, at the same time, I think that ICE operations should be limited to rounding up only undocumented people who have committed serious crimes. I understand that anyone who has entered the country without documentation has committed a crime, but I believe that ICE raids against such people are simply too blunt an instrument.

The status of illegal immigrants who have lived productively and peacefully in our country for many years should be a matter for political adjudication and not aggressive police action. The riots in Minneapolis and elsewhere in the country prove that the American people are ill at ease with the present policy.

At the same time, I would urge the political leadership in the state of Minnesota to stop stirring up resentment against federal officers who are endeavoring to enforce the laws of our country. The comparison of these oft-beleaguered individuals to Nazis and fascists and Gestapo agents is morally heinous and directly productive of violence. I was particularly appalled when the mayor of Minneapolis suggested that the municipal police ought to fight ICE agents and when the governor of Minnesota urged ordinary citizens to warn their neighbors of the presence of ICE agents and to film their "atrocities." All such rhetoric is utterly contraindicated.

I would add this as well: These operations are made far more chaotic because Minnesota and Minneapolis officials refuse to share information with federal law enforcement and refuse to support ICE operations by doing such basic things as crowd control and arresting or moving people who try to box in ICE agents. If local authorities had done their duty in this regard, the likelihood of dangerous face-to-face confrontations would have been significantly diminished.

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Similarly, though I am in no position to adjudicate every tactical decision, ICE agents should follow established protocol and not stand in front of a running vehicle. Finally, though I strongly support the right to engage in peaceful public protest, I urge protesters not to interfere directly with the work of ICE officials. Speaking one’s mind is one thing, but getting in the way of police vehicles or inserting oneself in situations where armed officers are present is inviting tragedy.

Everyone on all sides of this issue must stop shouting at one another and demonizing their opponents. Vigorous public conversation and honest debate are essential features of our democracy. Vitriol, scapegoating, insults, and impugning of motives are not. We quickly have to make some changes because where we are right now in Minnesota is untenable.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM BISHOP ROBERT BARRON

Leftist pastor calls Minnesota church invasion divine judgment on 'MAGA evangelicals' amid DOJ probe

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:53:39 -0500

While federal officials weigh possible civil rights violations over the invasion of a Minnesota church service on Sunday, leftist Christian leaders are cheering the anti-ICE protesters, casting the disruption of worship as a justified act of judgment.

A mob of anti-ICE agitators stormed Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, as the service began, with protesters claiming a pastor inside was affiliated with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Video showed agitators chanting "Justice for Renee Good" inside the chapel, as anti-ICE demonstrations flooded the Twin Cities.

Church officials wrote in a statement Tuesday "agitators jarringly disrupted" their worship gathering, accosting members of the congregation, frightening children and "creat[ing] a scene marked by intimidation and threat."

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"Such conduct is shameful, unlawful, and will not be tolerated," the church wrote. "Invading a church service to disrupt the worship of Jesus—or any other act of worship—is protected by neither the Christian Scriptures nor the laws of this nation. … Church buildings are meant to be places of peace and solace, where worshipers can hear and live out this message. We therefore call on local, state, and national leaders to protect this fundamental right. We are evaluating next steps with our legal counsel."

Kevin Ezell, president of the North American Mission Board (NAMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention, said it was "absurd" that protesters would disrupt a Sunday morning worship service.

"As protesters trespassed inside the church, yelling in the worship service, ex-CNN reporter Don Lemon stuck a mic in [the church's lead pastor, Jonathan Parnell]'s face asking don’t they have a constitutional right to public protest," Ezell wrote in an X post. "No, they don’t have a right to enter private property & disrupt worship."

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"If elected officials won’t contain lawlessness, [the NAMB] will provide protection for our churches," Ezell added.

However, some pastors, including Louisiana minister Rodney Kennedy, are applauding the protesters' ambush.

"MAGA churches are not being persecuted for righteousness but for not loving their neighbors. They are being persecuted by unexpected judgment, like Jesus cleansing the temple," Kennedy wrote in an opinion article on Baptist News Global. "… I think God is using unexpected prophets to judge Cities Church."

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Kennedy went on to attack the church itself, questioning "how a church bearing the name of Jesus promotes the themes of resentment, nativism, nationalism, racism and militaris."

"MAGA evangelicals have been raising hell in American politics. Their movement is filled with economic angst, racism, religious bigotry, antifeminism and hostility toward immigrants, science, the media and democracy," he wrote. "They have given birth to a Christian nationalism that is neither Christian nor patriotic."

Kennedy added he believes the church demonstration was likely "only round one."

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"Instead of whining about worship being violated, they should ask what led protesters to take such a drastic approach to communicate," he wrote. "I pray MAGA evangelical churches everywhere will discover gospel reasons for facing the persecution and outrage of the culture. Until then, the Sunday protest in Minneapolis was probably only round one."

Hours after the church protest, officials with the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division said they would investigate the disruption.

"The @CivilRights is investigating the potential violations of the federal FACE Act by these people desecrating a house of worship and interfering with Christian worshipers," Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon wrote in a statement on X. "Considering and investigating other related crimes as well. @FBI activated too!"

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The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE) Act, a federal law passed in 1994, makes it illegal to use force, threats or obstruction to interfere with people in places of worship.

Violations of the FACE Act can trigger criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, or civil penalties.

Anti-ICE agitator who stormed Minnesota church service also harassed congregants at Pete Hegseth’s church

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:00:13 -0500

One of the anti-ICE agitators who stormed into a Twin Cities church Sunday has also been accused of harassing congregants at Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s church in Washington, D.C.

Anti-ICE agitators stormed Cities Church sanctuary on Sunday, causing chaos and insisting that one of the pastors is the acting director of ICE's St. Paul field office. Protesters were heard shouting "ICE out" and "Justice for Renee Good" in the middle of services in front of shocked churchgoers. A man with the group was identified as William Kelly, who goes by "DaWokeFarmer" on TikTok, where he has over 66,000 followers, and regularly posts politically charged videos attacking ICE, President Donald Trump and members of his administration with profanity.

A member of Christ Church in Washington, D.C., who asked to remain anonymous, told Fox News Digital that he immediately recognized Kelly as a part of a group that has been pestering worshipers on a routine basis.

"William Kelly is a regular outside our church, he screams incredibly vile and gross things at families, at children at people, he’s called my wife a c---, a whore and a Nazi breeder, all sorts of fun things," the Christ Church member told Fox News Digital.

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The anonymous member said Kelly’s identity is well known among congregants after six months of "social media sleuthing."

Church members say the man was arrested by the United States Secret Service in December in a caught-on-camera ordeal that showed him berating a man as a "Nazi" and asking who he voted for. "DaWokeFarmer" said the Secret Service is "moving forward with disorderly conduct charges" against him in a recent video. The Secret Service did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Members of the Christ Church, where Hegseth attends, say they want to worship in peace and believe the vulgar shouting is extremely inappropriate.

"It’s been a good education for my children to understand what type of people use these words," the anonymous Christ Church member said.

"He probably first showed up in September or October, he’s been off and on since then," they continued. "Since he was arrested by the Secret Service in early December, he’s been on a road trip, out and about."

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The Christ Church member said Metro PD has done a good job keeping congregants "physically safe" but have been unable to prosecute Kelly.

Christ Church associate pastor Joe Rigney has no doubt that the man who stormed the Minnesota church has also tormented churchgoers at services.

"We’ve had regular protests at our D.C. services for the last few months, a combination of paid, professional agitators, as well as people who just show up periodically. We became aware of William Kelly because through that, he was one of the regular protestors each week," Rigney told Fox News Digital.

"Kelly stood out because he was one of the more aggressive, angry, vile, profane protesters who would follow people to their car, yell at them, yell at children… profanity-laden attacks on normal church members," Rigney continued. "When we saw the video come out of Cities Church in St. Paul, our security team flagged it for me and said, ‘That’s the same guy.'"

Rigney, who doesn’t believe Kelly has confronted Hegseth directly, said he previously worked with his security team and law enforcement to determine the man’s identity.

Justin Overbaugh, the deputy under secretary of War for Intelligence and Security, also alleged the man storming Twin Cities church in Minnesota was Kelly.

"Ahhh I see DaWokeFarmer a.k.a William Scott Kelly, is harassing parishioners in MN. We’ve missed him outside @ChristKirkDC stalking us after service," Overbaugh wrote in response to footage posted on X.

"This has been going on for months," Overbaugh added. "While MPD provides security, they take no action when the mob uses bullhorns to disrupt services, which is in clear violation of the law."

DaWokeFarmer did not immediately respond to a TikTok direct message.

DOJ LAUNCHES CIVIL RIGHTS INVESTIGATION AFTER MINNESOTA AGITATORS STORM CHURCH

The man's TikTok account also links to a GoFundMe page that identifies him as William Kelly.

"Road Trip!! Help me travel the Nation scolding the gestapo for their bad decisions! No rest for demons! Our goal is to encourage people to stand up for what's right across the nation! Stand up For Humanity," he wrote when asking for donations.

The account has raised over $40,000.

Protests against ICE have increased in Minnesota following the fatal shooting of Good by an ICE agent. The Trump administration said Good was attempting to ram the agent with her vehicle when he opened fire.

The protesters allege that one of the church’s pastors — David Easterwood — also leads the local ICE field office overseeing the operations that have involved alleged violent tactics and illegal arrests.

Easterwood was in the church at the time of the protest. The Justice Department said it is investigating the incident.

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On Monday, DaWokeFarmer addressed the ordeal on TikTok.

"Yesterday, I went into a church with [activist] Nekima Armstrong, and I protested these White supremacists. The pastor of the church is a f---ing ICE leader in the city. How can you be a f---ing pastor and be a f---ing agent? F--- ‘em, they wanna come after me? F--- ‘em," DaWokeFarmer said.

"How can they live so comfortably while the f---ing people from Somalia that are in this country legally, they have f---ing citizenship, can’t even go to their mosque and pray," he continued. "How do they deserve any f---ing different? F--- those f---ing Nazis. Come and get me, Pam Bondi, you f---ing traitorous b----."

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Fox News Digital’s Louis Casiano contributed to this report.

Gunmen abduct dozens of worshippers from multiple Nigerian churches using sophisticated weapons

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:51:43 -0500

Numerous worshippers from at least two churches in Nigeria were kidnapped during Sunday services by armed gangs, Reuters reported.

While Kaduna state police on Monday reportedly cited conservative figures, saying dozens were being held captive as the investigation remains in its early stages, a senior church leader noted that more than 160 worshippers were abducted by gunmen over the weekend.

Sunday’s incident, which BBC said targeted both Christians and Muslims, marks the latest mass kidnapping in Nigeria’s long-running streak of religiously fueled attacks. Muslim Fulani militants frequently carry out violence in northern and central parts of Nigeria to bankrupt Christian communities while receiving ransom payments.

Kaduna state police said gunmen armed with "sophisticated weapons" attacked two churches in the village of Kurmin Wali in Afogo ward at about 11:25 a.m. on Sunday, Reuters reported.

52 CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS IN NIGERIA KIDNAPPED BY GUNMEN IN LATEST ATTACK: REPORT

Reverend John Hayab, the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria located in the northern part of the country, told Reuters:

"Information came to me from the elders of the churches that 172 worshipers were abducted while nine escaped," Hayab said.

Early estimates from security agencies tend to be conservative, while community and religious leaders often report higher numbers. In Nigeria, casualty and abduction figures often vary widely in the days following mass kidnappings.

NIGERIA NAMED EPICENTER OF GLOBAL KILLINGS OF CHRISTIANS OVER FAITH IN 2025, REPORT SAYS

Police said troops and other security agencies had been deployed to the area, with efforts underway to track the abductors and secure the release of the captives, Reuters reported.

Nigeria has experienced a dramatic surge in mass attacks by armed gangs, particularly Islamist militants, who often operate from forest enclaves and target villages, schools and places of worship.

GUNMEN ATTACK CHURCH IN NIGERIA, KILLING TWO AND KIDNAPPING OTHERS

In 2025, Nigeria was named the epicenter of global killings of Christians, according to the Open Doors World Watch List. The report noted that while Muslims are also frequently attacked, Christians have been "disproportionately targeted," with one in five African Christians facing high levels of persecution.

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In November, 52 Catholic students, along with several staff members, were kidnapped by gunmen at St. Mary’s School in Nigeria, The Associated Press reported.

In April, the Evangelical Church Winning All, a major church based in West Africa, said it paid the equivalent of $205,000 in ransom to secure the release of roughly 50 members kidnapped in Kaduna, Nigerian lawyer Jabez Musa told Fox News Digital.

Fox News Digital's Paul Tilsley, Rachel Wolf, Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.