Iranians are embracing Christianity
Find out how ⬇️
Hi Religion Unplugged readers,
“In some of the most hostile places on earth,” Christianity is “thriving,” writes John Mac Ghlionn in today’s top story. Of many countries where Christians are being persecuted for their faith, one of the most surprising spots of growth is Iran.
Ghlionn writes on the country’s transformation into an “Islamic theocracy” several decades ago and the ways in which Christianity is exploding among the people despite persistent government crackdown.
Defiance of the theocracy and hope despite persecution define the movement, making it far more than just a religion.
Why Iranians Are Rejecting Islam And Embracing Christianity
(ANALYSIS) Although the Ayatollahs have responded with bullets, prison cells, and executions, sheer force can only do so much against an idea whose time has come. The regime is losing its grip. The Islamic Republic has long ruled through force and fear. Yet, as disillusionment spreads, hope takes root. In this context, Christianity is not just a religion. It is an act of defiance. by John Mac Ghlionn
Inside The Popular Easter Pageant That Draws 100,000 Visitors
An Easter Pageant in Arizona is now one of the world’s largest. The event, which runs for nine days before Easter Sunday, draws crowds of 10,000 each night and has a cast of 500. If you don’t live in the area — or if you’re not connected to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly called the Mormon Church — the Mesa Easter Pageant, an 87-year-old festival, is likely not on your radar. by Mark A. Kellner
A Mission That Turned Into A Movement: The Spread Of Quakerism In Africa
Here’s a fun fact many may not know: Most of the world’s Quakers live in Africa. Also known as the Religious Society of Friends, Quakers have a significant presence on the continent when it comes to building schools and hospitals. They are also involved in peacebuilding in a number of countries, including Kenya and other Central African countries, notably Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda. by Calvin Manika
Passion Play Brings Crucifixion To Life In London’s Trafalgar Square
Over the past decade, Passion Plays have become a feature of U.K. life. Over the past few years, the London Passion Play has lead the way when it comes to such re-enactments. The idea, however, dates back to the Middle Ages, when individual scenes would be performed at different sites around a city or town by the local guilds. by Angela Youngman
How The Movie ‘Sinners’ Subverts Christianity In Vampire Mythology
(REVIEW) Data shows that organized religion is better for society than disorganized spirituality. Whether it’s mental health, building social bonds, fighting toxic masculinity, creating safety nets to avoid poverty or creating social change (just remember the Black church’s important role in pushing forward civil rights), there’s no doubt that the house of worship has more power than cloves of garlic to ward off the evils that plague us. by Joseph Holmes
‘The Chosen: The Last Supper’ Finale Achieves Cinematic And Spiritual Greatness
(REVIEW) This is why a crowdfunded series ended up reaching box office heights. People don’t watch this series because they love it. They watch it because they love Jesus. The show, through its artistry and creativity, helps people see Him more clearly. It succeeds because film has a unique power: It can offer pure experiences that go beyond words. by Joseph Holmes
Study Finds New York (Yes, New York) Top US City For ‘Christian Engagement’
Attempting to determine which American city is the “most Christian” is no easy task. The outcome of a new study came with some surprises. The survey, out in time for Easter, has determined that the urban center with the highest religious engagement for Christians, using a variety of metrics and factors, is New York. by Clemente Lisi
To Sin Or Not To Sin: Shakespeare’s Vision Of God And Man
(ANALYSIS) Shakespeare’s works are, and have always been, profoundly theological — not because they provide answers but because they compel us to confront fundamental questions of existence. Is there justice in the universe? Do our actions have eternal consequences? Can the worst among us be saved? These questions not easily answered, if they can be answered at all. These are questions that still haunt us. by John Mac Ghlionn
On Religion: Understanding There’s More To Religion News Than Politics
(ANALYSIS) The bottom line: Religion events and trends draw intense news coverage when they are directly or indirectly linked to politics. This is especially true during tense elections. by Terry Mattingly
Zenger Prizes 2025: A Look At This Year’s Award Winners
(ANALYSIS) Zenger Prizes each year come from a Christian foundation, Zenger House, that honors feature stories based in on-the-ground reporting. I’m the chairman and one of the five judges, all veteran journalists. We like Christian journalism but give awards to journalists of any religion from around the world who write deeply reported stories consistent with a biblical ethic. by Marvin Olasky
Proposed Texas Religious Freedom Commission Appealing, But Harmful
(ANALYSIS) Why empower a small group of unelected, perhaps unrepresentative, people from some religious communities with official privileged access to the governor? Why treat seven people as if they could speak for the millions of religious believers in Texas? Can a Baptist properly reflect Catholic concerns, or an Orthodox Jew reflect Muslim concerns? by Paul Marshall
How The Orthodox Church Influences Russian Families And Putin’s Regime
(REVIEW) Six months after the invasion of Ukraine, the Putin regime announced a document titled “State Policy for the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values.” The document aimed to shape the worldview of Russians, including a “strong family.” Putin has utilized the rhetoric surrounding traditional values, which the Russian Orthodox Church has promoted, for his own purpose. by Thien Bui
🚊 Meet Clemente Lisi, Religion Unplugged’s Executive Editor: 7 Things To Know 🔌
Religion Unplugged’s readers see Clemente Lisi’s stories all the time. Here are seven facts to help the audience get to know him better. by Bobby Ross Jr.
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Thanks again for reading!
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Incredible round-up this week — thank you for continuing to spotlight the intersection of faith, politics, and culture without falling into the usual binaries. The piece on Christianity’s underground rise in Iran struck a deep chord. There’s something profoundly moving about faith being reclaimed not as tradition, but as resistance — as defiance and hope.
Also appreciated the unexpected gems: Shakespeare’s theology, Quakerism in Africa, and the subtle power of The Chosen finale. This kind of diversity in coverage is why I keep reading.
Curious — do you have plans for a deeper dive into how new media (like AI and digital platforms) are influencing spiritual formation and evangelism, especially in regions with restricted religious freedom? Would love to see that explored here.