Religion Today Daily Headlines - January 31, 2013

Religion Today Daily Headlines - January 31, 2013

Daily briefs of the top news stories impacting Christians around the world.

In today's edition:

  • Poll: More Than a Quarter of Americans Say God Influences Sporting Events
  • Arkansas Senate OKs Guns in Churches
  • French, Mali Forces Make Gains Against Islamists

 

Poll: More Than a Quarter of Americans Say God Influences Sporting Events

As millions look forward to watching the Super Bowl on Sunday, a new poll finds more than a quarter of Americans believe God "plays a role in determining which team wins" at sporting events, CNN reports. Asked if they believe God plays a role in who wins, 27 percent of Americans said yes. The survey by the Public Religion Research Institute also found that more than half of Americans believe "God rewards athletes who have faith with good health and success." Institute CEO Robert P. Jones said, "In an era where professional sports are driven by dollars and statistics, significant numbers of Americans see a divine hand at play." And when it comes to athletes making public professions of faith -- such as thanking God after winning or writing Scripture references on their gear -- 50 percent of those surveyed said they approved of those types of expressions, while 45 percent said it didn't matter and 4 percent said they disapproved.

Arkansas Senate OKs Guns in Churches

The Arkansas Senate has passed a bill that lifts a ban on carrying concealed weapons in church, the Religion News Service reports. The proposal, which passed 28-4 on Monday and now goes to the Arkansas House for consideration, would allow churches to decide which, if any, worshippers with concealed carry permits can bring their firearms inside. State Sen. Bryan King, a Republican, said the Church Protection Act would provide each church "an individual decision on what they want to do for security."

French, Mali Forces Make Gains Against Islamists

French and Mali army troops have made key gains against Islamic rebels in northern Mali in recent days, CBN News reports. The troops now control the airport in the town of Kidal, the last rebel stronghold, although the fight to control the city is ongoing, France's military spokesman reported. The forces also re-captured the cities of Timbuktu and Gao; however, a lack of funds and troops is slowing down the French initiative. The African Union recently pledged $450 million in aid to fight the Islamists, but says an additional $500 million is needed.

Publication date: January 31, 2013

Religion Today Daily Headlines - January 31, 2013