A ‘big’ step for one of America’s largest Churches of Christ
This fast-growing congregation wasn’t in the market for real estate. However, church leaders determined buying a 50-acre complex was God’s will. By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle TULSA, Okla. — In “Hoosiers,” one of Mitch Wilburn’s all-time favorite movies, a small-town high school basketball team beats all odds to advance to the Indiana state championship game. In the giant arena where the Hickory Huskers … Continue reading A ‘big’ step for one of America’s largest Churches of Christ
Planning a short-term mission? These 11 tips might help
Know your purpose. Be flexible. Coordinate with local churches and missionaries. These are among the suggestions offered by trip coordinators. By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle Short-term mission trips have taken Paula Harrington and her family to disaster zones in the U.S. and poor communities in Third World countries. “We have cleaned up after tornadoes, done Vacation Bible Schools on the streets, fed others, cleaned … Continue reading Planning a short-term mission? These 11 tips might help
Tax rules for gifts of personal property
Churches and their donors need to understand how to substantiate gifts — from cars to clothing. This article is the second of a two-part series on substantiating noncash gifts. Part one on noncash real property appeared in the August issue. What follows are substantiation considerations for “personal property” — such as clothing, cars, boats, household items, and stock. By Bobby Ross Jr. | For Church … Continue reading Tax rules for gifts of personal property
Houses of worship mobilize for back-to-school time
By Bobby Ross Jr. | For Religion News Service OKLAHOMA CITY — On a recent weekend, Pamela Jennings brought her 7-year-old granddaughter, Amara, and 4-year-old grandson, Trend, to People’s Church, an evangelical congregation. But though Jennings is a Christian, the family didn’t come for worship. Instead, they were drawn by the church’s Day of Hope — an annual Saturday event where volunteers give away 3,200 … Continue reading Houses of worship mobilize for back-to-school time
With 330 million downloads, top Bible app celebrates 10 years
By Bobby Ross Jr. | For Religion News Service EDMOND, Okla. — A high-tech Bible in your pocket? In 2018, it’s a reality for hundreds of millions of smartphone users around the world. But a decade ago, when leaders of Oklahoma-based Life Church developed the popular YouVersion app, the concept was new. “We just thought, ‘What if the Bible could be among the very first … Continue reading With 330 million downloads, top Bible app celebrates 10 years
Meet my grandson, Bennett Tyler Ross!
A new day for Puerto Rico
As hurricane-battered U.S. territory rebuilds, a Kentucky church sends help and encouragement. By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle ARECIBO, Puerto Rico — Punishing, back-to-back hurricanes wrecked this U.S. territory nearly a year ago, sweeping away homes, decimating crops, knocking out electrical systems and ravaging families. But Hurricanes Irma and Maria failed to kill the spirits of those in this poor, coastal community who lived through … Continue reading A new day for Puerto Rico
This Catholic journalist has witnessed 400-plus executions but won’t say if he approves
By Bobby Ross Jr. | GetReligion
It’s almost incomprehensible: Associated Press journalist Michael Graczyk has served as a media witness for more than 400 executions.
When I worked in AP’s Dallas bureau from 2003 to 2005, Graczyk was a Houston-based colleague of mine — and a great guy.
Graczyk, 68, is making headlines this week because of his retirement after 46 years with the news service.
The Dallas Morning News featured the veteran newsman on today’s front page. The Washington Post had a story on him Tuesday. And AP got the scoop on Graczyk’s plans. No surprise there, right?
All of the interviews, of course, are fascinating. And all paint a portrait of an accurate, fair-minded journalist: In hundreds of cases, Graczyk has made it a point to interview condemned inmates who were willing. But not only that, he also has given victims’ relatives an opportunity to speak, if they so desired.
Here’s a journalist who epitomizes the best of his profession.
• • •
All of my GetReligion columns (August 2018):
Running away from religion
In Montreal’s secular culture, many native Canadians see no need for faith. Immigrants ‘are readier to hear about God,’ minister Roger Saumur says. By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle MONTREAL — Montreal’s heart has grown cold to the Gospel. The largest French-speaking city in North America can be a lonely place to be a Christian. “Our society, it’s secular,” said Horald Shabanaj, an Albanian … Continue reading Running away from religion
Faith. Family. Fastballs. 