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American Idol to Air Easter Sunday Episode Featuring Performances by Jelly Roll, Brandon Lake and the Judges

In a notable shift toward faith-based content in mainstream media, "American Idol" has announced its first-ever "Songs of Faith" episode, set to air on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. This three-hour special will feature the top 20 contestants performing faith-inspired songs, with additional performances by judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. Special guests include Grammy-winner CeCe Winans, "American Idol" alum Roman Collins, Jelly Roll—this season's artist in residence—Christian artist Brandon Lake, and The Brown Four.

This initiative represents a significant moment for "American Idol," integrating faith-based performances into its prime-time lineup. The inclusion of prominent Christian artists and the selection of Easter Sunday for this special highlight a broader trend of mainstream media embracing spiritual themes. This move not only caters to a diverse audience but also reflects a growing openness to faith expressions in popular culture.

Adding to this momentum, during Hollywood Week, contestant Baylee Littrell, son of Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell, performed an original worship song titled "Hey Jesus." Baylee shared that he wrote the song during a challenging period following the loss of his grandmother, which led him to question his faith. He credited the song with helping him reconnect with God. Judges Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie praised the heartfelt performance, with Underwood describing it as "a conversation with God." This moment underscores the show's evolving platform, allowing contestants to express their spirituality openly.Faithwire

The decision to dedicate an entire episode to songs of faith, coupled with performances like Littrell's, indicates a response to viewers' evolving preferences and a recognition of the unifying power of music with spiritual significance. By providing a platform for contestants and established artists to share faith-inspired performances, "American Idol" contributes to a cultural moment where spirituality and mainstream entertainment intersect.

This "Songs of Faith" episode could be seen as part of a larger momentum shift, signaling a movement back to incorporating faith and spirituality into mainstream media narratives. As audiences tune in to this special broadcast, it may encourage other media platforms to explore and embrace content that reflects diverse expressions of faith.

#GoFindGod #SongsOfFaith #FaithInMedia #JesusOnIdol #WorshipInCulture #AmericanIdol2025 #BayleeLittrell #FaithRising #EasterSpecial #ChristianMusic #BackToGod #CultureShift #FaithInEntertainment

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In Defense of Christian Education

​The recent decision by Norwood Primary School in Eastleigh, Hampshire, to cancel its annual Easter Bonnet Parade and Easter Service has sparked significant debate. The school's headteacher, Stephanie Mander, stated that the move aimed to "create a more inclusive atmosphere that honors and respects the beliefs of all our children and their families."

While the intention is to promote inclusivity, such decisions raise concerns about the diminishing presence of Christian traditions in public education. Christian education offers a holistic approach that integrates faith with learning, fostering moral development and a comprehensive worldview. Institutions like Sully Christian School emphasize the significance of embedding biblical principles throughout the curriculum, ensuring that students not only achieve academic excellence but also develop a moral compass guided by Christian values.

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In our diverse world, understanding and respecting various cultures and religions is essential. However, promoting inclusivity should not necessitate the suppression of one's own traditions. As highlighted by Calvin Christian School, Christian education prepares students to engage with different worldviews while remaining rooted in their faith. This balance is crucial for fostering mutual respect and understanding in a pluralistic society.​

The decision to eliminate specific religious celebrations in schools raises questions about educational freedom and the right to observe one's faith. The Carolina Journal underscores the importance of private Christian schools as bastions of religious freedom, allowing families to choose educational environments aligned with their beliefs. Ensuring that public institutions also respect and accommodate religious observances is vital for upholding the principles of diversity and inclusion.​

While the intent behind Norwood Primary School's decision may be to foster inclusivity, it inadvertently highlights the challenges of maintaining religious traditions within public education. Christian education and observances play a pivotal role in shaping individuals and communities. As we navigate the complexities of a multicultural society, it is imperative to find ways to honor and preserve these traditions, ensuring that inclusivity does not come at the expense of cultural and religious heritag

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Disney Animated Series Has Openly Christian Character For First Time In Almost Two Decades

Can you believe it’s first time in nearly two decades that a major studio has depicted a character openly expressing Christian beliefs?

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'The Chosen'- Series 5 - 'The ending, the beginning, or a continuance of faith'

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As fans of "The Chosen" anticipate the release of Season 5, there's a bittersweet sentiment knowing that the series is approaching its conclusion. This season promises to depict pivotal events such as the triumpht entry into Jerusalem, the cleansing of the temple, and the Last Supper, leading up to Jesus' arrest. While the thought of the series concluding may evoke feelings of  loss, it offers a profound opportunity for reflection on the enduring narrative of Christianity and the lessons it imparts.​   Deseret News

Embracing the Endings

The completion of a beloved series like "The Chosen" can feel like bidding farewell to a cherished companion. However, in the Christian tradition, endings often serve as preludes to new beginnings. The anticipated portrayal of the Last Supper in Season 5 is a poignant reminder of this. This event marked the end of Jesus' earthly ministry but also instituted the Eucharist, symbolizing a new covenant and the promise of eternal presence. Thus, the series' conclusion can be viewed not as a loss but as an invitation to delve deeper into the perpetual story of faith, and the human struggle to walk  with faith.​

Lessons in Loss and Renewal

Christianity teaches that through loss, there is potential for profound growth and renewal. The narrative of Jesus' crucifixion—a moment of immense sorrow for His followers—transformed into the foundation of hope through the resurrection. This paradox highlights that suffering and endings can lead to greater purposes beyond our understanding. As viewers, the end of "The Chosen" can inspire us to reflect on personal losses, recognizing them as integral to our spiritual journey and growth.​

The series has brought to life the humanity and stuggles of The Disciples, and humanity and divinity of Jesus, fostering a deeper connection for many. As it concludes, we are encouraged to internalize its teachings, allowing the stories and lessons to resonate within us. This reflection aligns with the Christian practice of meditating on Scripture and the life of Christ, leading to personal transformation and a more profound faith experience.​

Continuing the Journey

While "The Chosen", an earlthly TV series, may be concluding, the journey it depicts is eternal. The series serves as a catalyst, encouraging viewers to explore the Gospels further, engage with their communities, and live out the teachings of Christ. In this way, the end of the series becomes a beginning—a call to action to embody the love, compassion, and faith exemplified throughout its episodes.​

As we embrase the conclusion of "The Chosen," we are reminded that in Christianity, every ending is intertwined with the promise of hope and renewal. As we reflect on the series and its portrayal of Jesus and his Disciple's lifes, we find inspiration to navigate our own struggles of loss with hope, viewing them as opportunities for deeper faith and understanding.

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Deepen Your Lent 2025 Journey with The Chosen Season 5 & Our Lent Collection

As Lent 2025 approaches, it’s a time for reflection, renewal, and deepening our faith. This year, the journey is even more special with the release of The Chosen Season 5, which brings to life the events leading up to the Last Supper. To complement this season, we’re introducing our Lent Collection—a curated selection of resources designed to enhance your Lenten experience. Join us in this spiritual journey as we reflect, grow, and prepare our hearts for this sacred season.

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The Removal of God from Education: A Growing Concern

As education becomes more secular, the removal of God from schools is creating a moral void. Historically, many schools were founded with a focus on spiritual growth alongside academics, but today, this divine element is increasingly absent. The shift to secularism leaves students without a spiritual compass, raising concerns about the future of education. Families are encouraged to explore faith-based schools or homeschooling to provide a holistic education that nurtures both mind and spirit. #Education #FaithInSchools #Secularism

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The Future of Homeschooling: Saviour of Religious Education and the Classics?

Homeschooling is rapidly growing in popularity, particularly as a solution for families seeking religious education and a return to classical learning. In the U.S. and Australia, homeschooling is not just about academic freedom but also a means to preserve the humanities and integrate faith-based values. As traditional education systems evolve, homeschooling offers personalized, flexible, and diverse educational options. This shift allows for a more customized learning experience, empowering parents to instill religious and intellectual values in their children. The future of education might very well be shaped by this growing movement. #Homeschooling #ClassicalEducation #FaithInEducation #ReligiousEducation

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The Growing Appeal of Faith-Based and Classical Education in the U.S. and Australia

Faith-based and classical education is gaining popularity in both the U.S. and Australia as parents seek schools that align with their moral and academic values. In the U.S., religious colleges and classical K-12 schools are experiencing growth due to dissatisfaction with public education and a desire for a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and moral character. Similarly, in Australia, private faith-based and independent schools are seeing increased enrollments as parents move away from the public system. This shift reflects a growing demand for educational environments that prioritize both academic excellence and strong values. #FaithBasedEducation #ClassicalEducation #US #Australia #ParentChoice

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The Surprising Boom in Bible Sales: Why 2024 was the Year of the Good Book

In 2024, Bible sales have seen an unexpected surge, driven by Gen Z's quest for meaning in a turbulent world. Rather than solely religious devotion, young people are turning to Scripture for wisdom and purpose, using it as a tool for self-reflection amidst modern chaos. Social media and innovative marketing are also playing a significant role, making the Bible more accessible and visually appealing. This trend not only reflects a spiritual revival but highlights the Bible's growing appeal as a cultural and intellectual resource. #BibleSales #GenZ #Spirituality #SocialMedia #CulturalTrends

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