1st‑century Jewish preacher and central figure of Christianity
Ancient beliefs about solar eclipses have evolved into modern science. France 24 and Independent recount how eclipses shaped astronomy from Babylonian predictions to Einstein, while modern observers prepare for a total solar eclipse across Europe.
Christians in Israel fear harassment as regional conflicts intensify. A nun reports being spat at; volunteers and police are increasingly involved. Interfaith leaders highlight better policing and a new Greek Orthodox government envoy. Catholics join a Mount Tabor pilgrimage amid security concerns.
Thieves have taken three panels from Antonello da Messina's San Gregorio polyptych and a small double-sided devotional panel from the Regional Museum in Messina late on Aug. 15 during the city's Vara procession. Two panels were later abandoned near the museum. Authorities are investigating a likely commissioned theft and probing how alarms were circumvented.
Stolen artworks attributed to Antonello da Messina have been taken from the Regional Interdisciplinary Museum of Messina during a late Saturday burglary caught on Assumption Day in the city. Five wooden panels comprising the San Gregorio Polyptych and a small two-sided Virgin and Christ painting have been seized; two panels were left behind near the museum grounds. Authorities suspect the theft was ordered for high-value art trafficking.
Journalists and worshippers have been locked inside Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre overnight, witnessing a rare, shared space among Armenian, Catholic and Greek Orthodox traditions. The experience highlights centuries of custody arrangements and ongoing religious ritual.
The Catholic Biblical Association has elected Levine, a Jewish scholar, as its first Jewish president. Critics allege antisemitism online, while supporters say the appointment reflects interfaith dialogue and scholarly merit. The backlash highlights rising antisemitism and calls for better understanding between faiths.
A 29-foot limestone statue at Mount Cristo Rey remains at the center of a legal clash after the U.S. government pursues land seizure for a proposed border wall. Diocese argues the move infringes religious liberty, while authorities say the project will protect the area and support border security.
Three surfers from Australia and the US were killed in Baja California during a suspected botched robbery. The accused face murder and aggravated robbery charges; prosecutors say the killings occurred during a failed attempt to steal a pickup truck. The trial has included witness intimidation concerns and the sentencing pushes past 200 years for each defendant.
Defacement of a Turning Point USA statue at its Phoenix headquarters has been reported shortly after the one-year anniversary of Kirk’s death. Police are investigating; the organization says it will restore the memorial and review footage.
Meskel is being celebrated across Ethiopia with bonfires and prayers, while fears of a wider war in Tigray persist as flights are disrupted and families are separated by conflict.
Mackenzie and dozens of associates are found guilty of murder in the Shakahola forest case, with a court ruling that links the deaths of hundreds of followers to a doomsday sect. The verdict covers 191 deaths; investigations into others continue. Families mourn as Kenya looks to tighten oversight of religious groups.
A scholar has drawn parallels between Israeli Haredi and Amish communities after decades of fieldwork. The work highlights shared religious rigidity, insularity, and evolving use of technology, underscoring how small communities adapt within modern life.