In Bangladesh, a ‘vast multitude’ envisioned

As youths, Qahir Hamad* and his Bangladeshi friends beat a group selling Bibles and Christian literature and threw the wares into a pond. Consumed with guilt over what he’d done, Hamad hardly slept that night. Having secretly saved four books to read later, he found someone after weeks of searching to tell him what the books meant.

Mayan calendar draws spotlight; a troubled culture struggles

Because the ancient 5,125-year Mayan calendar will end on Dec. 21, 2012, global interest in Mayans has skyrocketed in recent years. Some New Age philosophers predict the beginning of a new era of enlightenment for mankind.

Iranian pastor: I’m surrendered ‘to God’s will’

The jailed Iranian pastor who could be executed for converting to Christianity has released a public letter asking for continued prayers and saying that while he wishes to be released, he has surrendered “to God’s will.”

Iranian pastor’s attorney headed to prison

Iranian pastor Yousef Nadarkhani’s attorney – called by many a hero for his representation of religious minorities – has been convicted and could begin serving a nine-year sentence soon in a development that will leave Nadarkhani without a lawyer.

China escalates crackdown on house churches

The Chinese government is engaging in a three-phase campaign to eradicate Protestant house churches, according to the China Aid Association.

N.C. couple in Brazil sees prayerwalking open doors

During their daily walks, Rob and Phyllis Hefner have been mugged, physically assaulted and narrowly escaped an attempted kidnapping. During a robbery, a woman held a knitting needle to Phyllis’ throat.

Pakistani cultural hub: Awakening envisioned

The streets of the ancient city of Lahore, Pakistan, anchor majestic buildings in a blend of Islamic, Persian, Turkish and Indian architecture. Known as the cultural capital of Pakistan, Lahore is the country’s second-largest city and the capital of the influential Punjab province.

Jesus is enough: Convention staff encouraged by great faith

After just a day or two, walking on piles of snow and narrow strips of ice was a welcome relief from mud. Walking on mud that had hardened somewhat wasn’t so bad because you could gingerly step on the top and squish along, slipping and sliding.

VP nominee would lead IMB strategy for business leaders

Long before he became IMB president, Tom Elliff dreamed of a new kind of missionary – Southern Baptist business leaders who leverage their resources, global connections and growth strategies to help fulfill the Great Commission.

Bombings in Nigeria continue against Christians

Suspected Islamic extremists attacked a TV viewing center in Jos, Nigeria, April 24, in a Christian area of the city where a crowd had gathered to watch a soccer match.