ORTHODOX CHURCH
Russia's Mikhail Kalashnikov invented the deadly AK-47 rifle, but a 2013 letter to church just before his death revealed his deepest regret: 'My spiritual pain is unbearable'
The rifle he developed in 1947 was primarily intended to safeguard Russia's boundaries. As he aged, Kalashnikov shared that he became more consumed by this question, always contemplating why God had made humans with harmful inclinations like jealousy, greed, and aggression.
Jordan, Syria form joint probe after Jordanian strikes targeting IS kill civilians in Syria
Jordan conducted airstrikes in Syria that resulted in civilian casualties, prompting outrage from Syrian authorities. Both countries have agreed to form a joint committee to investigate the attacks and coordinate on security matters. Discussions between Jordanian and Syrian foreign ministers emphasized the need to protect civilians and maintain sovereignty. The airstrikes were reportedly in response to a terrorist attack in Jordan.
Ukraine and Russia eye new peace talks and Melania Trump's mission, but major obstacles remain
Russia and Ukraine have signalled willingness to resume US-brokered peace talks, potentially in Abu Dhabi in mid-November, as territorial disputes and security guarantees continue to block progress. A local ceasefire has also been agreed to allow humanitarian aid into a stranded town in Ukraine’s Kherson region. However, fresh Russian missile and drone attacks underline the challenges facing US President Donald Trump’s efforts to end the war.
India condemns attack on church in Jordan's Karak; reaffirms zero tolerance for terrorism
India has condemned the attack on a church in Karak, Jordan, which occurred during a funeral. The Ministry of External Affairs expressed condolences to the victims' families and wished for a swift recovery for the injured. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar shared similar sentiments and emphasized India's commitment to combating terrorism. Jordan's King Abdullah II vowed to retaliate against those responsible for the attack.
Gunmen open fire at a church during a funeral in Jordan, killing 6 and wounding 28 others
On Friday, gunmen opened fire inside a Greek Orthodox church during a funeral in Karak, Jordan. The attack resulted in the deaths of six individuals and left 28 others wounded. Authorities are investigating the incident which occurred approximately 180 kilometers south of Amman. Security forces are familiar with Karak, as it has experienced violence in the past. Previous incidents included deadly attacks on police and civilians within the region.
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A landlocked African country that has never been colonized has just celebrated New Year 2019; here’s why it is 7 years behind the world
Ethiopia's calendar is a fascinating divergence from the Gregorian system, currently marking the year 2019. Rooted in historical and religious contexts, it celebrates a unique New Year known as Enkutatash, heralding the end of the rainy season. This festive occasion is deeply intertwined with agricultural cycles, showcasing traditional practices that reflect the country’s vibrant culture and enduring independence.
What is Orthodox Christmas? Why do 250 million people celebrate Christmas on January 7, is it a holiday
Every year, for millions of Christians worldwide, Christmas falls on January 7 rather than December 25. The difference exists because these communities, which includes Russian, Serbian, Coptic, Ethiopian, and Eritrean Orthodox churches, continue to follow the Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used by most nations.
Jesus once fed 5000 taken literally by Orthodox faith? 5000-seater church in Romania will shock you;half the height of Burj Khalifa: National Cathedral in Bucharest stands at 417 ft, costs $315 mn
Hundreds of thousands of Romanians have traveled to Bucharest to visit the newly opened National Cathedral, now the world’s largest Orthodox church. After 15 years of construction, the cathedral has become a national symbol, attracting pilgrims nationwide and abroad amid debate over its public funding and massive scale
Charlie Kirk’s legacy finds a place in Russian orthodox church publication, assassinated TPUSA co-founder honored for contributions to Christianity with “deepest respect”
A Russian Orthodox Church publication, overseen by Bishop Tikhon, has honored the late Charlie Kirk for his contributions to Christianity. The article highlights Kirk's impact on Christian communities and his advocacy for conservative Christian ideals. Kirill Dmitriev confirmed discussions with the Church to formally acknowledge Kirk's role in promoting Christian values, following his assassination in September 2025.
Church donation box goes digital in Greece
The installation of a Point of Sale (POS) device at the Cathedral Basilica of St Dionysius the Areopagite marks the first such move by a Greek church, despite POS systems being widely used in churches elsewhere, including in Africa. The unit was expected to be working within a week, accepting card-tap donations as small as one cent, up to a limit of 1,000 euros ($1,130).
Gunmen kill 20 at worship sites in Russia's Dagestan
Gunmen launched attacks at a synagogue, an Orthodox church, and a police post in Russia's Dagestan region, killing an Orthodox priest, multiple police officers, and civilians. The governor of Dagestan called it a "day of tragedy," with over 20 killed in what is believed to be a terrorist attack. Five gunmen were shot and killed. Days of mourning have been declared, and flags are at half-staff. The attackers' identities and motives are under investigation.
Gunmen fire on targets in Russia's North Caucasus, 6 police killed, officials say
Gunmen opened fire at a synagogue and an Orthodox church in Derbent, home to an ancient Jewish community and a UNESCO World Heritage site in Russia's North Caucasus region of Dagestan. The Interior Ministry reported casualties, including six policemen killed and 12 injured. Street fights erupted in Makhachkala, with police actions anticipated in Derbent.
Greece just legalized same-sex marriage. Will other Orthodox countries join them any time soon?
Greece has become the first majority-Orthodox Christian nation to legalize same-sex marriage under civil law. However, most majority-Orthodox countries, including Russia, remain opposed to same-sex relationships. Montenegro and Cyprus have also authorized same-sex unions, and civil unions may become more common among Orthodox countries gravitating toward the European Union. In Ukraine, same-sex couples cannot register their status legally, and in Russia, LGBTQ+ expression has been cracked down upon.
On Orthodox Christmas, Putin vows to back soldiers who 'defend' Russia
Amid Orthodox Christmas, President Putin pledges support to soldiers defending Russia, emphasizing their courage. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a focal point, with both sides engaging in intensified airstrikes and ongoing clashes. Putin calls for greater government support for fallen soldiers' families but refrains from calling for a ceasefire. He emphasizes traditional values, aligning with the Orthodox Church, while tensions persist and affect bordering areas, notably canceling Christmas Eve services in a city hit by cross-border attacks.
Ukraine says it shot down Russian fighter jets and drones as the country officially marks Christmas
On Monday, Ukraine's air force reported shooting down two Russian fighter jets, intercepting two cruise missiles, and downing 28 Shahed-type drones targeting southern and central regions. Although no immediate casualties were reported, 31 drones were launched, and details on the three unintercepted ones were not provided.
Spain seizes ancient gold jewellery stolen from Ukraine
Spanish police have seized gold artefacts worth over €60 million ($64 million) that were stolen from Ukraine and illegally taken out of the country. The 11 pieces, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, were smuggled out of Ukraine before 2016 and were going to be sold in Madrid. Three Spanish and two Ukrainian nationals, including an Orthodox Church priest, were arrested in connection with the operation. The artefacts, which date back to the 8th and 4th centuries BC, had forged documents to make it appear as if they belonged to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Angry Russia refuses to speak at UN meeting on its attacks on Ukraine's key port city of Odesa
Russia refused to speak at a U.N. Security Council meeting called to discuss Moscow's recent attacks on the key port of Odesa immediately following its refusal to extend the Black Sea grain deal, in an escalation of Russia's anger at Ukraine and its Western backers. The meeting was called by Russia to debate the divided Orthodox Church in Ukraine.
Angry Russia refuses to speak at UN meeting on its attacks on Ukraine's key port city of Odesa
Russia boycotted a UN Security Council meeting called to discuss Moscow's recent devastating attacks on the key port of Odesa in Ukraine, following the country's refusal to extend the Black Sea grain deal. Moscow had requested Britain allow Archbishop Gideon, of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, to speak at the council session but the UK only permitted two briefers. Polyansky accused the UK of bias.
500-year-old icon of Enthroned Christ looted from divided Cyprus repatriated
The Cyprus Church traced the icon to an auction in Switzerland, and Swiss police seized it in 2014.
Russian Orthodox Church scolds Pope Francis after 'Putin's altar boy' remark
Francis told Italy's Corriere Della Sera newspaper that Kirill, who has given the Ukraine war his backing, "cannot become [President Vladimir] Putin's altar boy".
2017 SC order implemented as Orthodox priests enter Piravom Church, conduct holy mass
Armed with a Kerala High Court directive, the Orthodox faction entered the church known as "Piravom Valiyapalli"
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemns attack on Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II in Syria
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today condemned the attack on Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II, head of the Syrian Orthodox church.
President Pranab Mukherjee releases commemorative stamp on Kottayam Old Seminary
Kerala was the first state in the country where both Christianity and Islam took roots with people voluntarily choosing different religious beliefs.
Kerala Orthodox Church chants on App
The Syrian Orthodox church has launched a prayer app called Qleedo on Android and iOS platforms.
Rich Kerala Christians praise Narendra Modi as he gets Orthodox Seminary support
For a second time in the last two weeks, two smaller Christian denominations have made statements in support of Narendra Modi and his work in Gujarat.
Residual doubt
Darwin may have expounded one of the most elegant biological theories of evolution by natural selection but he apparently had reservations.
Orthodox Christians hail 'holy fire' of Easter in Jerusalem
Thousands of Orthodox Christians converged on Jerusalem's Church of the Holy Sepulchre to witness what they believe is the miraculous appearance of "holy fire" on the eve of Orthodox Easter.
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