John Nelson+FollowWhen holiday plans go sideways, hearts connectHoliday plans rarely go as expected, but sometimes the best memories come from those unexpected twists. From bacon and eggs for Christmas dinner after a loss, to passing on a beloved latke recipe across the country, these real stories show how laughter, love, and even a little chaos can bring us closer. Whether it’s a quiet meal, a last-minute hospital celebration, or a family tradition turned upside down, it’s clear: the holidays are less about perfection and more about connection. What’s your most memorable ‘plan gone sideways’ holiday moment? #Religion #HolidayStories #FamilyTraditions20Share
Pamela Marshall+FollowCleveland’s Christmas meal tradition warms heartsEvery Christmas, St. Augustine Church in Cleveland transforms into a hub of warmth and connection for hundreds who might otherwise spend the holiday alone. What started over 40 years ago by Sister Corita Ambrose and Father Joe McNulty has become a lifeline for many, offering not just a hot meal but a sense of belonging. Volunteers say it’s the hugs, the stories, and the shared hope that keep them coming back. The need for this kind of community support doesn’t end with the holidays—St. Augustine’s is always looking for helping hands and open hearts. How do you see the spirit of giving alive in our city? #Religion #Cleveland #Community00Share
Teresa Graham+FollowHow Warsaw neighbors can make a real impactRight now in Warsaw, more families than ever are facing tough choices—like whether to heat their homes or put food on the table. The Salvation Army Indiana Division is stepping up, but they can’t do it alone. Every dollar donated stays right here, helping with meals, shelter, and emergency support all year—not just during the holidays. Last year, they provided nearly 2.6 million meals and over 100,000 nights of safe shelter. If you’re able, even a small gift can be a lifeline for someone nearby. How do you think our community can come together to support neighbors in need? #Religion #WarsawCares #GiveWithJoy00Share
Pamela Marshall+FollowBloomington’s First Christian Church bounces backAfter a devastating fire in October, First Christian Church in Bloomington is proving that a community is more than just its building. Even with the sanctuary closed for repairs, Sunday services and the weekly Welcome Table Breakfast for those in need are still happening—now in the Great Hall. The congregation has rallied, raising over $835,000 for restoration and upgrades, and is focused on serving neighbors first. Despite challenges, the church’s spirit is unshaken. How do you think a community’s identity changes when its gathering place is disrupted? #Religion #Bloomington #CommunityStrong00Share
Lindsay Wood+FollowCleveland church brings Christmas spirit to the streetsInstead of spending Christmas at home, volunteers at Denison United Church of Christ in Cleveland filled their holiday with purpose—serving hot meals, handing out gift bags, and sharing music and laughter with neighbors experiencing homelessness. The church isn’t just open for the holidays; it’s a lifeline six days a week, offering food, showers, laundry, and even a mailing address. Sonia Matos, one of the volunteers, says it best: sometimes all it takes to make a difference is a little heart and the willingness to show up. How do you think we can support each other in our own neighborhoods? #Religion #Cleveland #CommunityCare00Share
Lindsay Wood+FollowGhana’s Real-Life Noah Delays DoomsdayRemember that Ghanaian prophet who built his own mini arks and said the world would end on Christmas? Plot twist: he just told everyone God changed the date! After hyping up a flood apocalypse, Ebo Noah sent his followers home, saying they’ve got more time to build boats and, oh yeah, Merry Christmas. Some people were lining up for a spot on the ark, others called him out. Would you have boarded? #Religion #Ghana #NoahsArk01Share
Matthew Barnes+FollowWhen Holidays Hurt: Finding Light AgainNot everyone is feeling the holiday cheer—some of us are missing loved ones and feeling that empty seat at the table. This piece hit me hard: grief and gratitude can actually exist together. Even when the season stings, we can hold onto faith, memories, and the people still with us. It’s okay to cry and laugh in the same breath. Let’s reach out to anyone hurting this year and remember: thank God for what we have left. #Religion #GriefAndGratitude #HolidayFeels30Share
Pamela Marshall+FollowIdol’s Big Faith Pivot: Did You See This Coming?American Idol just had its most surprising season yet—think less pop diva, more praise and worship. The show went all-in on faith-based music, even airing a 3-hour Easter special with the judges belting out hymns. The winner, Jamal Roberts, snagged a Grammy nom for gospel, and runner-up Breanna Nix is now a Christian music darling. Idol’s gone from launching pop stars to becoming a launchpad for tomorrow’s worship leaders. Wild, right? #Religion #AmericanIdol #FaithMusic60Share
Lindsay Wood+FollowAngel Tree Gifts Drama: Dollar Store Haul?!This mom signed her daughter up for the Angel Tree program, but when the gifts arrived, they looked straight out of Dollar Tree—think a $1.75 doll, a PEZ dispenser, and a cheap doodle board. TikTok exploded, with some calling her ungrateful and others saying the charity dropped the ball. Turns out, this was a Prison Fellowship Angel Tree, which usually sticks to a $25 limit, but this haul barely hit $4. The best part? After the backlash, more gifts arrived, and the family paid it forward to others! #Religion #AngelTree #ChristmasDrama20Share
Teresa Graham+FollowAlbuquerque’s Faith Comes By Hearing honors a legacyAlbuquerque just lost a true community pillar—Anet Jackson, co-founder of Faith Comes By Hearing, passed away at 90. Her vision brought the Gospel to millions worldwide in their own languages, making faith accessible for those who never had it in their ‘heart language.’ From a small local ministry, her work now spans over 2,500 languages and every continent. As the organization continues her mission, they’re inviting everyone to celebrate her life and legacy. How has her work touched your life or community? Let’s share stories and keep her spirit alive. #Religion #Albuquerque #FaithComesByHearing00Share
