A recent piece in the New York Times takes note of the rise of Christian faith from Gen Z—but delivers some odd analysis along the way. The author claims these religiously awakened are questioning liberal democracy and see their faith tied to a politics of “good vs. evil;” and that they lack the sunbelt optimism that marked Ronald Reagan.

This is all revisionist.

First, the young church goers influenced by Charlie Kirk have engaged in a huge campaign to register voters—that’s a belief and engagement in democracy, not a rejection of it. Second, Charlie Kirk lived and put his headquarters in the heart of the sunbelt, Arizona. And—on seeing the battle as a “good vs. evil” struggle—It’s hard to accept that anything worthy of calling itself a religion, be it Christianity or Judaism, would not see the challenges as “good vs. evil.”

By the way, didn’t sunny Ronald Reagan not famously speak of an evil empire?

But: At least the New York Times is paying attention. Something notable is happening.

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Canterbury Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in England. Over the centuries, pilgrims like those in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales have worn grooves into its stone steps from ascending them on their knees.

But last week, the Church of England decided to allow the cathedral’s interior to be covered in graffiti — supposedly to reflect the voices of “marginalized communities.”

It’s hard to see how defacing a sacred space benefits anyone. In fact, it seems pretty insulting to suggest that vandalism is the best way to honor minority communities.

What it signals, more than anything, is the Church’s moral confusion and its profound contempt for the western culture that built it.

If church leaders truly want to connect with modern Britain, here’s a better way: stop chasing ridiculous fads. Start preaching Biblical truth and talk about Jesus instead.

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The saying “If grief could be seen, the world would be covered in black” is often attributed to Francis Weller.

For two years, Israel has been wrapped in black. Even when many hostages were freed, the shadow remained.

Now, after the release of the final 20 living hostages and as a cease-fire hardens, rays of light are emerging from that tortured and tested land — songs of joy rising once aga in from that nation.

October 13 will stand as a testament courage and endurance of the captives, the fearlessness of soldiers, the resolve of diplomats, the iron will of families, the help of true allies and the triumph of good over evil.

President Donald Trump has led the breakthrough and now leads this next phase.

There’s no question: There’s still a lot of work still to be done.

But this is a moment for gratitude — for the freed hostages, for Israel’s endurance and for the hope that Gaza’s innocents may finally live in peace.

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