The man who wants to live forever
What does former Mormon Bryan Johnson really want?
Hi Religion Unplugged readers,
You may have heard of Bryan Johnson before — during one of the many times he’s gone viral for his unconventional lifestyle, or during a lawsuit with his ex or, even earlier, during his successes in the tech world. Johnson is now the subject of Netflix documentary “Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever,” which delves further into his desire to extend his life by any means necessary.
The documentary also details his past in the LDS church, his struggle with mental health and family and his motivations for living his life the way he’s doing now. It offers a strikingly raw portrait of humanity and the desire for connection. Culture correspondent Jillian Cheney reviews the documentary in today’s top story.
The Gospel According To Bryan Johnson: What Does This Former Mormon Really Want?
(REVIEW) Bryan Johnson went viral several times before the recent release of his Netflix documentary “Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever.” The title says enough about his goal and the source of his virality — but his story, of course, goes deeper than his obsession with extending his lifespan. by Jillian Cheney
How An Oregon Church-Turned-Hostel Became A Vibrant Hub For Cyclists Around The World
A tiny cross is perched atop the church. In front, a bright red bicycle repair station and a brown-and-white sign proclaims “Spoke’n Hostel” to greet visitors. Not only does this church-turned-hostel offer the cheapest accommodations — just $35 a night — in this remote part of the state, but its reputation for warm hospitality has earned two awards from Oregon’s governor’s office. by Julia Duin
Muslims In Sri Lanka Fail To Return To Their Homes In War-Torn Provinces
(ANALYSIS) Nearly two decades have passed since the 26-year civil war ended in Sri Lanka. Yet, Muslims displaced from the island nation still face significant challenges in returning to their homes and reclaiming their land. The civil war between the Sri Lankan armed forces and the Tamil guerrilla separatists, displaced around 300,000 Tamils and 70,000 Muslims. by Sonia Sarkar
America’s Religious Heritage And Trump’s New Transgender Agenda
(ANALYSIS) With the transgender policies among President Trump’s blizzard of new executive orders, further explanation is needed on the cultural reality of deep-seated religious concepts. In particular, the resolutely “binary” Bible depicts humans as either male or female and underlies 2,000 years of Jewish and Christian teaching. Similarly with the Quran and Muslims. How should that heritage affect secular society and policy? by Richard Ostling
Chief Minister Of Violence-Hit Indian State Resigns: What Happens Next?
(ANALYSIS) The Feb. 9 resignation of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, which conveys little remorse or admission of failure, must at least be followed by swift and constitutionally sound action from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to ensure that this potential first step toward resolving the prolonged conflict is somewhat effective. by Vishal Arora
On Religion: Chaplains Helping People Journey From ‘Why’ To ‘When’?
(ANALYSIS) Chaplains work with hospitals, hospices, military units, legislatures, schools, sports teams, corporations, prisons and police and fire departments. Many, but not all, are ordained ministers. For most Americans, the chaplains they know best serve in the nation's 6,000 or more hospitals. Pastors visit the sick and dying from their own congregations. For hospital chaplains, this is the heart of their work — every day. by Terry Mattingly
Family Life In America: Partisan Divide Widens Over Marriage And Faith
The partisan divide between how Americans view family and the importance of marriage is growing — although most agree that economic challenges continue to be a major concern, a new survey reveals. The annual American Family Survey found that 71% of respondents identified the economy as one of the most important issues affecting families today. by Clemente Lisi
In Uganda, Churches Leverage Innovative Ways To Lure Back ‘Lost Sheep’
To achieve this, many churches have embraced technological advancements, including mobile mission vans, online services, loudspeakers, radio, and television, to share the gospel directly with the community. Others have organized crusades and preached on the streets as part of the growing outreach program. by John Semakula
Once Again, it’s Time To Ponder God’s Role In The Super Bowl
(ANALYSIS) Looking at the calendar, I see that the Kansas City Chiefs and Taylor Swift have one more game this year. Thus, let me ask two questions that — when placed back to back — create a paradox that points to some ironic tensions in this culture of ours. by Terry Mattingly
How The Book of Revelation Shaped America’s Border Politics And The Trump Wall
(REVIEW) In “Immigration and Apocalypse: How the Book of Revelation Shaped American Immigration,” Yii Jan Lin narrates how some Americans have used the apocalyptic vision from the Book of Revelation to idealize the United States as a new holy land, while simultaneously marginalizing immigrants. The U.S. is portrayed as the New Jerusalem, with immigrants viewed as outsiders exhibiting unethical behaviors. by Thien Bui
Braille Bibles Used To Empower Visually Impaired Churchgoers
There are very few braille Bibles in Zimbabwe. Some schools may have a copy, which the teacher reads aloud during religious education classes. Disability advocates say that Braille is more than just a code; it’s a bridge to equality, a tool for empowerment and a growing symbol of resilience for so many of Africa’s Christians. by Calvin Manika
🏈 ‘Like A Religion’: Why Super Bowl Sunday Means So Much To The Football Faithful 🔌
For the most fervent of the football faithful, the Super Bowl — which last year drew a record 123.7 million U.S. viewers — brings rituals and traditions with a quasi-religious feel. But at least one Christian scholar has concerns. by Bobby Ross Jr.
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