Walk with God

Churchome pastor Judah Smith has sparked debate after suggesting that people can follow Jesus without identifying as Christians, including those who still call themselves Hindu. His comments, made during the “Miracle Mentality” podcast, drew attention on October 29 after a video clip circulated on social media. “I've got a friend who's like, ‘I'm still Hindu, but I follow Jesus.’ I'm like, ‘cool, bro. You think I care?’” Smith said. He argued that Jesus would not require people to adopt the title “Christian” to enter heaven, emphasizing that following Jesus matters more than a religious label. Smith also predicted a global movement of people turning toward Jesus, including those outside traditional Christianity. “I think the point is just following Jesus,” he said. His remarks have raised theological questions about Christian identity, salvation, and whether following Jesus can be separated from one's existing religious beliefs.

Christian actress Jen Lilley, known for her roles in “Days of Our Lives” and numerous Christmas movies, says many people in Hollywood are searching for truth, hope, and meaning in their lives. Speaking at the 2026 GMA Dove Awards, she encouraged Christians to show compassion rather than judgment toward those in the entertainment industry. “We always say Hollywood is so dark, and I’m like, yes it is, but I will say they’re searching. They’re searching for the truth,” Lilley shared. She explained that many actors struggle with guilt and believe they have made too many mistakes to find redemption. Lilley hopes to reach them with the love and grace of Jesus Christ, reminding them that no one is beyond God's mercy. Lilley also discussed her upcoming film “Jimmy,” which tells the story of actor and World War II veteran James Stewart. Reflecting on her own faith and career, she emphasized her desire to follow God's calling rather than personal ambition. “I don't have time to do what I want. I want to be about my father's business,” she declared.

Catholic priest Richard Storey pleaded guilty on October 27 to a felony theft charge after being accused of stealing nearly $160,000 from Curé of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, Kansas, where he previously served as pastor. As part of his plea agreement, Storey repaid approximately $159,363 to the parish. According to court documents, the unauthorized spending included expensive cruises, international travel, shopping, and personal expenses. Investigators identified more than $77,000 in cruise-related spending, including a large casino cash withdrawal. Storey resigned from the parish in September 2025 and was later suspended from priestly ministry. Archbishop Shawn McKnight expressed deep sadness over the case and asked believers to pray for everyone affected. The archdiocese has launched an internal Church investigation into the financial misconduct and separate allegations involving an adult. Storey's sentencing is scheduled for January 11, 2027.

Ohio pastor Israel Ford, who recently sparked controversy by publicly introducing his second wife and claiming polygamy is biblical, is now facing serious allegations of sexual abuse from his stepdaughter, Kourtney Jones. In Facebook posts published October 26 and 27, Jones accused Ford of abusing her for years beginning when she was 12 years old. Jones described alleged sexual abuse, intimidation, and manipulation within the family, calling Ford “a predator, an abuser, and a false prophet.” Separate court records confirm that Ford was previously convicted of domestic violence involving his other stepdaughter, with an Ohio appeals court upholding the conviction in 2020. Ford and his wife Lydia have denied Jones' sexual abuse allegations. Jones urged young Christians to recognize the dangers of spiritual manipulation and not blindly trust religious leaders. “Never stop praying for discernment,” she wrote. “And do not let people manipulate your trust in God.” Her allegations have renewed questions about accountability, abuse of spiritual authority, and the protection of vulnerable people within churches.