Churches of Christ in decline: U.S. culture to blame?

Changing society poses a challenge for Christians. First Place, Theme Issue, Section or Series, Associated Church Press By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle TULSA, Okla. — In 21st century America, who might attract Jesus’ attention? Muslims? Drug addicts? Religious “nones.” The recent Tulsa Workshop — the free annual gathering started in 1976 and known for many years as the “International Soul Winning Workshop” — explored outreach … Continue reading Churches of Christ in decline: U.S. culture to blame?

His dad was a preacher — and a pedophile

After discovering his father’s secret, Jimmy Hinton strives to create awareness of sexual predators. First Place, Feature Writing, Oklahoma Society of Professional Journalists Second Place, Feature Article, Associated Church Press (a different story of mine won first place in this category) Honorable mention (part of three-story portfolio), Magazine News Religion Reporting, Religion News Association By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle SOMERSET, Pa. — Jimmy Hinton grew up at the … Continue reading His dad was a preacher — and a pedophile

‘Worship is our protest’

In Ferguson, a predominantly black church focuses on healing its community by glorifying God. First Place, News Story, Associated Church Press Honorable mention (part of three-story portfolio), Magazine News Religion Reporting, Religion News Association By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle FERGUSON, Mo. — Brian Owens feels a need to protest. But his protest doesn’t involve waving a “hands up, don’t shoot” sign, staging a “die-in” or … Continue reading ‘Worship is our protest’

Cristo can move mountains, Spanish-speaking church believes

Part of The Christian Chronicle’s “One Nación Under God” special project. Cristo can move mountains, Spanish-speaking church believes (reporting from Elgin, Ill.): In a Chicago suburb, a Latino congregation experiences growth and contemplates a multicultural future. First Place (with Erik Tryggestad and staff), Theme Issue, Section or Series, Associated Church Press ELGIN, Ill. — Tears of joy flowed as the Elgin Church of Christ, a Spanish-speaking congregation northwest of Chicago, stood and … Continue reading Cristo can move mountains, Spanish-speaking church believes

50 years of Northern exposure

50 years of Northern exposure (reporting from Wasilla, Alaska): Alaska lectureship celebrates a half-century of promoting unity among Churches of Christ. Third Place, Leisure Writing, Oklahoma Society of Professional Journalists By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle WASILLA, Alaska — This state known for its natural beauty, midnight sun and independent spirit boasts an estimated 3 million lakes, 100,000 black bears and, oh, about 2,500 … Continue reading 50 years of Northern exposure

Inside the ‘Duck Dynasty’ church

For home congregation, Robertson family’s celebrity a blessing and a challenge. First Place, Feature Article, Associated Church Press Honorable mention (part of three-story portfolio), Magazine News Religion Reporting, Religion News Association By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle WEST MONROE, La. — Gasps of excitement wash over a crowded classroom at the White’s Ferry Road Church of Christ as Phil Robertson arrives for Sunday … Continue reading Inside the ‘Duck Dynasty’ church

Mandela legacy in South Africa: All races worship freely

Mandela legacy in South Africa: All races worship freely — Anti-apartheid champion’s quest for equality and justice draws praise from leaders of Churches of Christ. Page 1 lead. Second Place, News Story, Associated Church Press By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle Bullets came flying at Alan Martin as he stepped off a Cape Town, South Africa, bus after a Wednesday night Bible study. … Continue reading Mandela legacy in South Africa: All races worship freely

Religious freedom in public schools

Yes, it’s constitutional to teach the Bible during the school day. First Place, Education Reporting, Oklahoma Society of Professional Journalists By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle SIMPSONVILLE, S.C. — Eight middle school students gather around a classroom table at the Holland Park Church of Christ. Teacher Becky Mays asks if anyone has a prayer request. “My grandma,” one student says. “My uncle,” another … Continue reading Religious freedom in public schools

After the tornado, Oklahoma church sings God’s praises

First Place (with Erik Tryggestad, Ted Parks and Murray Evans), In-Depth Reporting, Associated Church Press By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle MOORE, Okla. — Tears. Hugs. Emotional recountings of survival and loss. In the wake of a disaster such as the May 20 tornado that devastated this Oklahoma City suburb, the casual hellos and handshakes of a typical Sunday give way to deeper, … Continue reading After the tornado, Oklahoma church sings God’s praises