There was a time when the world understood symbolism.

We watched Carmen walk into a saloon full of demons, draw his six-shooters and send the forces of darkness running. We didn’t leave thinking Christians should start gunfights. We understood the message. The battle wasn’t against people. It was against evil.

And we loved it.

That is exactly what the internet seems to have forgotten.

A short video clip from Vacation Bible School at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Lexington, Kentucky, exploded across social media after showing a group of “Commandos for Christ” pretending to eliminate a figure dressed in black representing the Devil. Children could be heard cheering as the skit concluded, yelling “Take him out, blow him up!” prompting critics to accuse the church of promoting violence.

The outrage spread far faster than the truth.

Pastor Dewayne Walker responded by explaining what anyone willing to look beyond a few seconds of video would have quickly discovered.

“It’s a character called the devil,” Walker said.

That should have ended the conversation.

Instead, critics began claiming the church was encouraging children to kill people who disagree with Christianity. Walker responded with understandable disbelief.

“They’re saying this is killing people that don’t believe like us. All I can say is, ‘What?'”

Exactly.

Walker explained the viral clip represented only a tiny portion of a Vacation Bible School program the church has presented for more than three decades.

“That little snippet is not even close to what we’re about,” he said.

He also made the church’s position unmistakably clear: “If you ever hear that Mount Olivet Baptist Church has a Vacation Bible School that’s for killing people, you heard it wrong or something’s badly wrong.”

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Could the presentation have been dramatic? Certainly.

Walker even admitted as much.

“You may think we went over the top. You may think it was a little bit extreme, and maybe you’re right.”

That honesty deserves credit, not condemnation.

What deserves condemnation is a culture that refuses to distinguish between symbolic spiritual warfare and actual violence. The apostle Paul wrote, “For our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Eph. 6:12, MEV).

Christians are not at war with people. We are at war with sin, darkness and the Devil himself.

Walker echoed that biblical truth when he said, “I hate sin because of what it does to the sinner. I will not hate sinners. I’m a sinner saved by God’s grace.”

That is the heart of the Gospel.

The real danger is not a church using creative storytelling to teach children that Satan has already been defeated through Jesus Christ. The real danger is a society so conditioned to manufacture outrage that it can no longer recognize the difference between fantasy and faith, between symbolism and reality.

Christ has already won the victory. Our job is to stand firm, put on the whole armor of God and remind the next generation that the enemy has been defeated.

As Carmen declared years ago, “Satan, bite the dust.”

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell of 2819 Church encouraged Christians facing hardship during a recent message on TBN, reminding us that Christ remains faithful even when life feels overwhelming.

“I want to speak to you, my brother and my sister, who’s going through a very difficult season,” Mitchell said. “Maybe you’re dealing with persecution. Maybe you’re dealing with betrayal. Maybe you’re dealing with something that has just crushed you down to the floor. And all you know right now is pain and tears and hardship.”

Drawing from his own testimony, Mitchell recalled how God transformed his life after he cried out to Him in desperation. He later shared how Proverbs 3:5-6 became a defining passage in his walk with Christ.

“Trust in the Lord with all of your heart. And lean not on your own understanding. But in all of your ways, acknowledge me. And I, here comes the promise, will direct your path,” Mitchell quoted. He added, “Trust God even when you can’t trace him.”

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Mitchell urged believers not to carry the burden of trying to understand every circumstance on their own.

“Don’t try to figure everything out on your own,” he said. “There’s some things you will go through in this life you cannot figure out on your own.”

Instead, he encouraged Christians to pursue a close relationship with Jesus, trusting that He will reveal His purpose in His timing.

“You know what you’re supposed to be doing? Developing an intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. And He will lead you into everything He has already called for you to do and purposed for you to do.”

Mitchell also reflected on one of the most painful seasons of his ministry, sharing that he nearly walked away because of the weight of hardship and criticism. Looking back, he said he now realizes how much would have been lost had he quit.

He reminded believers that Christ is our refuge in every trial.

“You and I serve the one who is a strong tower,” Mitchell said. “You can run to Him in the middle of what you’re going through, and there you will find comfort, and you will find strength, and you will find guidance, and you will find answers.”

Mitchell closed with a reminder that no follower of Christ has to face suffering alone.

“So my brother and sister, don’t try to go through this alone another day. I want to encourage you to run into the arms of the one who loves you and who is to you and I a strong tower.”

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

John Bevere reveals how one question should shape every believer’s understanding of the Second Coming:

How should we live if Jesus could return today?

That was the central theme of Bevere’s appearance on Bryce Crawford’s podcast, where the bestselling author and Bible teacher urged Christians to move beyond endless prophecy debates and instead prepare their hearts for Christ’s return by living in faithful obedience.

Rather than encouraging listeners to speculate about dates or headlines, Bevere challenged them to examine their daily walk with Christ.

“Here’s what I firmly believe. I live like He’s coming back today,” Bevere said. “The Lord could want me home tomorrow. He could want me home tonight.”

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He explained that this mindset affects every area of the Christian life, including resisting temptation, pursuing holiness and keeping an eternal perspective.

“Have you put off the Lord’s coming in your heart?” Bevere asked. “Do you ever wonder why it’s so hard for you to stay away from pornography? Do you ever wonder why it’s so hard to stay away from that substance?”

For Bevere, the Second Coming is not primarily about decoding prophecy but about preparing to stand before Christ with confidence.

He argues that the return of Jesus “was meant to awaken our faith, sharpen our purpose, and prepare us to stand confident at His appearing,” adding that the most important question believers should ask is, “How should we live in light of Christ’s imminent return?”

Bryce Crawford echoed that emphasis during the conversation, steering the discussion away from sensationalism and toward practical discipleship. He highlighted that the conversation was not intended to produce fear, but to help Christians understand how the reality of Christ’s return should shape everyday faithfulness.

Throughout the podcast, Bevere consistently returned to the same conclusion: followers of Christ should not become consumed with predicting timelines. Instead, they should live every day ready to meet their King.

His message serves as a reminder that the doctrine of Christ’s return is not merely about future events. It is about present obedience. For Christians, the question is not simply whether Jesus is coming again, but whether we are living in a way that reflects that we truly believe He is.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

A 92-year-old North Carolina man is proving that serving others has no age limit.

According to original reporting by WECT News 6, Gilbert Martin, affectionately known as “Mr. Gil,” has spent the past six years serving customers as a dining host at a Chick-fil-A in Wilmington. While many people retire decades earlier, Martin continues working full time with a joyful attitude and a heart for people.

Martin said his daily responsibilities are simple, but his greatest priority goes beyond keeping the restaurant clean.

“I make sure the tables are clean, the floor is clean,” he said. “But the main thing is I take care of people out here first.”

Before joining Chick-fil-A, Martin spent decades in the natural gas industry before retiring. He later worked as a greeter at Sam’s Club for more than 12 years until the position was eliminated.

Rather than settling into retirement, Martin said he quickly realized he still wanted to serve.

“After two months, I got bored and put in an application,” he said.

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That decision has become a blessing not only for Martin but also for countless customers who have come to know him.

“If you enjoy what you’re doing, it’s not work, and I look forward to coming in,” Martin said. “It’s crazy, isn’t it?”

His impact has not gone unnoticed.

“He’s a great person, you don’t come across too many people like that,” Chick-fil-A owner and operator Mike Perdue said.

Perdue also recalled the response when Martin missed a couple of days because of a cold.

“People were so concerned, it was crazy, ‘Where’s Mr. Gil? Is he okay?'” Perdue said.

For Martin, however, the most meaningful part of every shift is the opportunity to minister to others.

“I get a lot of people that are coming in, just been to the doctor, and got bad news,” he said. “I’m able to be an encourager; the Lord gave me that.”

Martin said he has no plans to retire and welcomes customers to stop and say hello if they see him at work.

“I don’t know what 92 is supposed to feel like, but I feel great,” he said.

Mr. Gil’s story is a reminder that God can use willing hearts in every season of life. Whether serving in a church, a workplace, a neighborhood or a restaurant dining room, faithfulness is not measured by age but by a life lived in service to God and to others. His joyful example demonstrates that opportunities to encourage, love and reflect Christ never expire.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Archaeologists excavating biblical Shiloh in Israel say newly uncovered ruins may strengthen the case that they have identified the location where the Ark of the Covenant was once housed.

The Daily Mail reported that researchers with Associates for Biblical Research recently uncovered the southern wall of a monumental Iron I period structure, allowing them to reconstruct its full dimensions for the first time. The building’s east-west orientation and proportions closely resemble the biblical description of the Tabernacle.

“The discovery of the southern wall now enables our researchers to reconstruct the full dimensions of the building and better evaluate its function and significance,” excavation director Dr. Scott Stripling said in a blog post cited by the Daily Mail.

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Researchers emphasized they have not discovered the Ark of the Covenant itself.

Excavators also uncovered worship-related artifacts in and around the structure, including altar horns, ceramic pomegranates and murex shells. The shells were used to produce the blue dye associated with priestly garments described in Scripture.

In another part of the site, archaeologists uncovered additional walls from Shiloh’s northern fortification system, providing new insight into the city’s defenses and urban layout. The team also discovered three large Canaanite storage jars containing charred olives, wheat and lentils. Researchers plan to conduct radiocarbon testing to establish a more precise date for the destruction layer where the jars were found.

“These discoveries provide an important window into the earliest occupational phases of Shiloh and help us better understand the site’s history before the Israelite settlement,” Stripling said.

While the Ark of the Covenant remains one of history’s greatest mysteries, archaeologists say this excavation season has produced new evidence that appears to align with the biblical record surrounding ancient Shiloh.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

A downtown Austin, Texas restaurant server has been charged after police said he stabbed a Catholic pastor multiple times during an apparent targeted attack while the pastor was dining with friends.

FOX 7 reported that 45-year-old Edward Koubek was charged with second-degree felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon following the June 27 incident at Bob’s Steak and Chop House.

The victim was identified as Jairo Sandoval-Pliego, pastor of San Jose Catholic Church in Austin.

The attack unfolded around 10:30 p.m. at the restaurant on Lavaca Street. Austin police responded after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a stabbing.

When officers arrived, they found Sandoval-Pliego suffering from a neck wound. An officer immediately rendered aid by applying pressure to the injury before the pastor was transported to a nearby hospital.

According to witnesses, Koubek recognized Sandoval-Pliego when the pastor entered the restaurant with a couple. As the meal came to an end, Koubek approached the table again. The witnesses initially believed he was embracing the pastor before realizing he was repeatedly stabbing him, FOX 7 reported.

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Officers later located Koubek inside a closed room of the restaurant with blood on his hands and clothing. He was taken into custody without incident.

Sandoval-Pliego told investigators Koubek had attended the church to pray in the past but had not been there for several months. The pastor said they spoke politely before the attack and described the assault as unprovoked.

Hospital staff told police Sandoval-Pliego suffered approximately four to six stab wounds to his back and shoulder area. Medical personnel said that “without medical intervention,” he could have died from his injuries, according to FOX 7.

During questioning, police said Koubek told investigators he had attended the church since 2018 and occasionally went to confession. He claimed he believed Sandoval-Pliego “would snicker” after hearing his confessions.

Police said Koubek told investigators seeing the pastor at the restaurant upset him because “he is still holding a grudge” against Sandoval-Pliego.

According to court documents cited by FOX 7, Koubek admitted retrieving a knife from the restaurant’s kitchen before pacing for about 10 to 15 minutes ahead of the attack.

When investigators asked about his intent, police said Koubek responded, “in the moment, to kill him.”

Koubek’s bail was set at $18,000. Court records show he was ordered to have no contact with Sandoval-Pliego and to stay away from both Bob’s Steak and Chop House and San Jose Catholic Church.

As Sandoval-Pliego continues his recovery, we join in praying for his complete healing and restoration. May God strengthen him, comfort his loved ones and church family, and bring His peace in the aftermath of this violent attack.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

A historic former Catholic convent near the traditional burial place of Saint Patrick was destroyed in a suspected arson fire Sunday evening, marking the loss of one of Northern Ireland’s longstanding Christian landmarks.

The Gateway Pundit, citing local reporting, said the fire broke out at the former Convent of Mercy in Downpatrick, County Down, around 7 p.m. on June 28. The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service said the cause is “believed to have been deliberate.” No injuries were reported.

Former convent in Downpatrick deliberately burned down on Sunday.

Downpatrick is literally where St Patrick is buried.

These are not coincidences. pic.twitter.com/XeOROTcnnX

— Tommy Robinson 🇬🇧 (@TRobinsonNewEra) June 30, 2026

More than 70 firefighters battled the blaze overnight, working to keep the flames from spreading to neighboring St. Patrick’s Church. The former convent, built in the 19th century, was destroyed, but the church was spared.

The Downpatrick Family of Parishes praised emergency crews, saying the fire had been prevented from reaching St. Patrick’s Church through the “heroism and skill” of the Fire Service.

“Fire fighters worked through the night to protect St Patrick’s and to them we owe an enormous debt of gratitude,” the parish said.

The timing added to the community’s grief. Earlier that day, the parish had celebrated the ordination of Fr. Thomas Hampton inside St. Patrick’s Church.

“Coming at the end of a wonderful day in the life of the parish family — the Ordination to the Priesthood of Fr Thomas Hampton—when the parish came together in a tremendous act of hospitality and welcome, it is particularly sad that so beautiful a building has been destroyed,” the parish said.

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The parish also reflected on the legacy of the Mercy Sisters, saying they left an “indelible influence for good” after more than 150 years of ministry in Downpatrick.

Authorities have not announced a suspect or identified a motive in the suspected arson investigation.

As attacks against Christian sites continue to make headlines across Europe, let us pray for God’s protection over churches and our brothers and sisters in Christ who faithfully serve Him. May the Lord strengthen His people, preserve Europe’s Christian heritage and draw many hearts to Jesus Christ.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

A newly born red heifer in northern Israel has been disqualified from use in the biblical purification ceremony outlined in Numbers 19, but Jewish leaders involved in preparations for a future Temple say the birth still marks progress in their ongoing breeding program.

According to a report published by The Times of Israel, the calf, named Tamima, was born last month in the Galilee after a breeding program using semen imported from the United States. Although the calf was born completely red, experts removed her ear tags shortly after birth.

Rabbi Azariah Ariel, one of Israel’s foremost Temple scholars and leader of the Temple Institute’s Red Heifer Project, determined that the calf cannot be used for the purification rite because of the resulting blemish.

“She is disqualified for the current rite due to the ear tag blemish.”

The report noted that while Tamima cannot provide the ashes required for the purification ceremony, she could still play a role in future breeding efforts if she remains free of additional blemishes.

The announcement comes as Temple preparation efforts continue to expand in Israel. Organizers say government-backed educational initiatives have trained approximately 150,000 Israelis toward a goal of 200,000 participants, with particular emphasis on preparing kohanim (priests) and Leviim (Levites) for future Temple service.

Temple leaders also outlined a broader six-part strategy that includes breeding a qualified red heifer, preparing ritually qualified priests, identifying a suitable location for the purification ceremony east of Jerusalem, resolving remaining questions of Jewish law, expanding public education and securing long-term funding for Temple-related projects.

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Why the Red Heifer Matters

For us as Christians, the significance of the red heifer extends far beyond the birth of a single calf. Scripture teaches that the ashes of a qualified red heifer are necessary for the purification rites described in Numbers 19. Those rites are foundational to restoring the full sacrificial system prescribed under the Mosaic Law.

Temple leaders believe a qualified red heifer is one of the final requirements for restoring ritual purity for the priesthood. That purification would allow preparations for renewed Temple services to move forward, making the search for a qualified red heifer one of the most closely watched developments surrounding plans for a future Temple in Jerusalem.

The rebuilding of the Temple carries global prophetic significance because Scripture teaches that the Antichrist will one day enter the Temple, exalt himself above every object of worship and proclaim himself to be God.

The apostle Paul wrote that the “man of lawlessness” will take “his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God” (2 Thess. 2:3-4). Jesus likewise warned of the coming “abomination of desolation spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (Matt. 24:15), pointing to a future event connected to the Temple in Jerusalem. Daniel also foretold that a coming world ruler would bring Temple sacrifices to an end midway through a seven-year covenant (Dan. 9:27).

For these reasons, Christians around the world continue watching developments surrounding the red heifer, the Temple Mount and preparations for renewed Temple worship. These events do not determine the timing of Christ’s return, but they demonstrate how the prophetic framework described in Scripture continues to come into sharper focus.

While this latest red heifer has been disqualified, our mission remains unchanged. Jesus commanded us to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matt. 28:19). As we fulfill the Great Commission, we are also called to remain spiritually alert and to discern the signs of the times through the lens of God’s Word.

We do not watch these developments out of fear or speculation, but with confidence in the promises of Scripture, ensuring our hearts are prepared for the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Israeli officials say Hezbollah has launched more than 7,000 rockets, missiles and drones into Israel since early March while embedding military infrastructure inside civilian areas and Christian villages in southern Lebanon.

The claims were made by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar during MUNI EXPO in Tel Aviv as Israel, Lebanon and the United States continue negotiations aimed at securing Hezbollah’s disarmament and a lasting peace agreement.

“Since March alone, Hezbollah has launched more than 7,000 rockets, missiles and drones from Lebanese territory into Israel,” Sa’ar said. “What country can accept this and not act to restore security to its citizens?”

Sa’ar said Hezbollah launched the current conflict under Iranian direction and argued that both Israel and Lebanon share the same enemy.

“We and Lebanon have a common enemy,” he said. “This is the enemy of Lebanon’s future, sovereignty, and independence, and it is also the enemy of Israel’s security. That enemy is Hezbollah.”

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According to the Israel Defense Forces, Hezbollah has used Christian villages, including Qawzah, to launch rockets and anti-tank missiles while operating from civilian infrastructure in violation of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701. The IDF also said it released drone footage in March showing Hezbollah fighters entering a building in a Christian village before it was struck.

Lebanese Christian MP Ghassan Hasbani also criticized Hezbollah’s actions.

“Hezbollah decided single-handedly to reenter the war triggered by the events in Iran,” Hasbani said. “This is a suicide action by Hezbollah, taking the whole country, the whole of Lebanon, into a regional conflict, into the unknown.”

Sa’ar has urged the United Nations to designate Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, press Lebanon to disarm the group and recognize Iran as a threat to international peace.

Israeli officials say Hezbollah still possesses thousands of rockets despite months of fighting, and Defense Minister Israel Katz said military operations will continue until northern Israeli communities can safely return home.

As this conflict continues, we are reminded to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Ps. 122:6), for the protection of innocent civilians, and for our Christian brothers and sisters in Lebanon who remain caught in the middle of the fighting.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

A newly born red heifer in Israel is doing more than capturing headlines. It is fueling what organizers describe as a nationwide movement to prepare for the restoration of biblical Temple worship, adding fresh momentum to developments that continue to draw global attention to the prophetic significance of events unfolding in Jerusalem.

The announcement follows several major milestones over the past year. Support for rebuilding the Holy Temple has reached a majority among Israeli Jews. Tens of thousands of men are now reportedly training for Temple service. Now, a red heifer born in the Galilee has become the centerpiece of what leaders say is a coordinated national effort to restore the biblical laws of ritual purity.

Israel365 News reported the calf was conceived using imported American semen and born to a black-coated Angus cow in northern Israel. Organizers believe its birth represents far more than a rare agricultural event.

“This is not a private event or private issue,” Yehuda Ben Tzvi, head of programming at the Mikdash Educational Center, said during an interview with Joseph Good of Hatikva Ministries. “The calf,” he said, “is only one piece of a six-point national strategy” that “must become ‘a national historical event'” rather than the work of a small group.

For Christians, these developments carry enormous prophetic weight. Scripture reveals that a functioning Temple will once again stand in Jerusalem before the return of Jesus Christ. Every new step toward restoring Temple worship reminds us that the stage continues to be set for the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.

Six pieces organizers say are needed

Ben Tzvi said the red heifer alone is not enough. The organization has spent the past year building what he described as six essential components needed to restore the purification ritual.

1. A qualified red heifer

The centerpiece of the effort is a calf named Tamima.

“Fascinatingly enough, a beautiful red heifer was born around a month ago, and she was, funnily enough, discovered by one of our team members from the National Red Heifer Institute,” Ben Tzvi said.

He added, “A red heifer born from a black Angus, but she was tip to toe 100 percent pure.”

The calf must now remain free from disqualifying blemishes while keeping an entirely red coat until it reaches the required age.

“We named her Tamima in a prayer that she will remain Tamim, whole, both in body and in redness of her coat,” Ben Tzvi said.

One immediate concern involved the calf’s identification tags.

“I said to Shahi, immediately get those tags out of there,” Ben Tzvi recalled. “The next day… she already didn’t have any tags, and we are now waiting to see if the blemish will heal 100 percent.”

Another challenge lies ahead.

“He has to keep it 100 percent red coat until it’s two years of age,” Ben Tzvi said.

2. A ritually pure priest

Ben Tzvi described this requirement as even more difficult than producing a qualified red heifer.

“Any kohen today, at least the people in the synagogue, is considered a kohen,” he said, “but a pure kohen is nearly unheard of, because he has to be born outside the hospital.”

He explained that contact with death or locations associated with death renders a priest ritually impure, requiring extraordinary care throughout life.

Despite those challenges, Ben Tzvi said the institute has identified one candidate.

“Thank God, there is a pure Cohen who we definitely keep in secret,” he said.

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3. The correct location for the ceremony

The ritual cannot be performed just anywhere.

“The Cohen stands facing this point, where his eye can see clearly the place of the temple,” Ben Tzvi said, “and there he sprinkles seven times in the blood of the heifer, and only there can the ritual be done.”

Because of that requirement, organizers have focused on the Mount of Olives and have even proposed constructing a platform overlooking the Temple Mount if necessary.

4. National rabbinic consensus

Organizers have assembled 20 rabbis to answer practical questions surrounding the restoration of the ritual.

“They are taking 10 or more important selected dilemmas, which we need to reach conclusions to give practical guidance to the program, and they are step by step reaching conclusions by democratic resolution,” Ben Tzvi said.

One of those conclusions addresses whether a restored Sanhedrin must exist before the ceremony can proceed.

“Although until the Sanhedrin are reestablished in Israel, it is not obligatory to have their presence recreating the red heifer ritual,” Ben Tzvi said, “but a great effort must be done to make it a national event.”

5. Public awareness

Ben Tzvi said education has become a major part of the campaign through media outreach, public interviews and an expanding educational center.

“It was 100 percent far from being anything up to standard,” he said while dismissing reports of an alleged rehearsal that circulated last year. “It was far away from Jerusalem, nowhere close.”

He emphasized the importance of accurately informing both Israelis and those following developments around the world.

6. National funding

The final piece is financial support.

“We are not asking for funding from any non-Jewish pocket,” Ben Tzvi said, “because we believe that first and foremost the Temple and our covenant with God stems from the relationship between the Jewish people and God.”

He said the effort begins with Israel before ultimately extending blessing outward.

“Once its temple is built, the circles can resound. Once we’ve made the inner circle, it can stand to the outer circle, all creating God’s presence within the Jewish people, bringing blessing to the nations… around the world.”

Growing momentum

The birth of Tamima comes as enthusiasm surrounding Temple preparations continues to grow.

Israel365 News recently reported that 150,000 men have enrolled in Temple service training as part of a broader goal of preparing 200,000 participants. Another recent survey found that 55% of Israeli Jews now support rebuilding the Holy Temple on the Temple Mount.

Viewed together, the developments paint a picture of increasing national momentum surrounding preparations that, for generations, remained largely on the fringe.

The birth of another potentially qualified red heifer is more than a headline—it is another marker along the prophetic timeline laid out in Scripture.

God’s Word has already revealed what lies ahead, and these developments remind us that His promises are unfolding exactly as He said they would. Rather than fueling speculation, they should stir us to examine our own hearts. Jesus warned us not to be like the five foolish virgins whose lamps had no oil when the bridegroom arrived. We are called to remain filled with the Holy Spirit, faithful to His Word and ready for the return of our King, because the day is drawing ever closer.

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].