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Fourth of July Family Traditions
Families and friends will gather together today to celebrate our nation’s independence, and many have longstanding traditions that bring much merriment to the holiday. Here are some things you might want to do this 4th of July:

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Egypt's Coup: President Mohammed Morsi Ousted; Christian, Muslim Leaders Draft Roadmap
Former Egyptian president Mohammad Morsi was overthrown in a military coup on Wednesday, and prominent leaders from both Christianity and Islam have drafted a roadmap plan for reinstating peace in the country.

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The True Cost of Freedom
We ought not let the significance of this Fourth of July holiday pass us by as we spend time with family and friends and watch dazzling fireworks shows – for there was a weighty cost for the freedom that we enjoy as citizens of the United States of America.

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Justice Scalia on DOMA Rulings: Supreme Court Has Overstepped Its Boundaries
The Supreme Court overturned Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) on Wednesday of last week, much to the disappointment of Justices Antonin Scalia, Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas, and Chief Justice John Roberts. The DOMA was established in 1996 and defines marriage as the legal union of one man and one woman, prohibiting same-sex couples from being recognized for federal spousal laws.
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'The Purpose of Marriage is Not Happiness,' Says Pastor John Ortberg
In his most recent sermon series, “Too Close for Comfort,” Pastor John Ortberg of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church (MPPC) gave a message about the mystery that is marriage, exploring relationships and genuine love in his sermon entitled “Dueling Desires.”
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Qatar Evangelical Alliance breaks ground on worship center, witnessing Christ in a Muslim nation
A worship center for evangelical churches has commenced construction in Qatar, marking a significant spiritual milestone in the history of evangelicals in the country.

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Hong Kong's deadliest fire in a Century: churches mobilize and pray to support the community
On 26 November, a severe level‑five fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. Early reports said at least 13 people died and 23 were injured. Local churches mobilize to support the community and pray.

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Christians gather in Hong Kong to pray for victims of Tai Po Hong Fu Court fire
More than 1,000 Christians gathered in Hong Kong on Dec. 5 for a united prayer service commemorating the victims of the five-alarm fire that devastated Hong Fu Court in Tai Po on Nov. 26, destroying thousands of homes and killing 159 people.

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Faith and freedom: USCIRF Chair Vicky Hartzler shares insights on China’s religious landscape
As China continues to update its religious regulations, changes in the country’s faith environment and space for religious practice have drawn increased global attention. In this interview, USCIRF Chair Vicky Hartzler responds to questions about religious policy, human rights, and faith, offering her perspectives on China’s current situation and sharing words of support and encouragement for Christians facing challenges.

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U.S. Congressional hearing highlights religious freedom challenges facing Chinese Christians and other faith communities
A recent U.S. congressional hearing cast a spotlight on religious freedom conditions in China, with witnesses sharing firsthand accounts of pressure faced by Christian, Muslim, and Tibetan Buddhist communities.
