Latest News & Developments
religious belief
Ranjiv Nirghin takes the helm as president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha
Advocate Ranjiv Nirghin has been elected as the new president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, succeeding the late Ashwin Trikamjee. With years of experience in various roles within the organisation, Nirghin aims to promote unity and uphold Hindu Dharma in a diverse society.
Honouring Swami Nischalananda: A legacy of unity and spiritual awakening
As South Africa prepares to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of Swami Nischalananda, his profound impact on the Hindu community and his enduring message of unity, knowledge, and selfless service is highlighted.
Opinion | How religion shapes a free and democratic South Africa
As South Africa celebrates Freedom Day, Nico Koopman explores how diverse religious views contribute to building a free and democratic society grounded in dignity and justice.
How the State bungled the Timothy Omotoso rape trial
In a stunning legal conclusion to an eight-year trial, televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused were acquitted of all charges including racketeering and sexual assault. Judge Irma Schoeman delivered a scathing assessment of the prosecution's work, citing 'desultory' cross-examination and failure to properly challenge the accused's testimony.
Nigerian televangelist walks free: Judge slams State's 'desultory' handling of Omotoso case
In a stunning legal conclusion to an eight-year trial, televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused were acquitted of all charges including racketeering and sexual assault. Judge Irma Schoeman delivered a scathing assessment of the prosecution's work, citing 'desultory' cross-examination and failure to properly challenge the accused's testimony - raising serious questions about the handling of high-profile sexual violence cases in South Africa.
Church leaders fight back against government control plans
Religious leaders are mounting fierce opposition to unprecedented government proposals that would require churches to obtain licenses and submit to state oversight. Freedom of Religion SA warns this threatens constitutional rights, while authorities argue it's necessary to protect vulnerable congregants.
South African Christian leaders stand against US claims of white victimisation
Over 300 South African Christian leaders dismiss US claims of white victimisation.
Inside the extraordinary life of a Western Cape man living in a cave for nearly two decades
Discover the extraordinary life of a man who has embraced off-grid living in a cave for 18 years, transforming his dwelling into a sanctuary filled with faith and creativity.
Archbishop Thabo Makgoba responds to Archbishop of Canterbury’s resignation amid abuse scandal
Archbishop Makoba noted that while abuse cases had surfaced in the region in recent years, the church has been taking significant steps to prevent such harm in the future.
Demands for Church of England reform after abuse scandal
The leader of the world's Anglican communion, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, said this week, he was resigning following a damning report that concluded the Church of England covered up a serial abuse case.
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby quits over abuse scandal
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said this week, he was resigning following a damning report that concluded the Church of England covered up a serial abuse case.
Denouncing Bishop Diocesan College’s hypocrisy: A call to action against Zionist apartheid
As a country that has endured apartheid, we know all too well the realities of segregation, racial superiority, and systematic oppression. Zionism, in its essence, mirrors the very policies that once subjugated the majority of South Africans under apartheid.
Who is ‘Brother Enigma?’ Understanding the viral self-proclaimed prophet
Brother Enigma’s outspoken opinions about Jesus, as well as his Bible quotations, are what sparked the entire craze around him.
Thousands in London for October 7 memorial waving ‘bring them home’ flags
Attendees waved Israeli flags and bring them home placards with the faces of hostages still held by Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip at the commemoration in Hyde Park in central London.
Pope lands in Catholic-majority East Timor to rock star welcome
Pope Francis arrived in East Timor on September 9, for the third stop of an Asia-Pacific tour, the longest of the 87-year-old’s papacy.
At 87, pope defies expectations with epic tour
By embarking aged 87 on the farthest journey of his papacy, Pope Francis is doing something some believed impossible - and seeking to silence those who doubt his ability to fulfil his role.
Local organisations call for global community to intervene following murders, looting and rapes in Bangladesh
Local organisations have shown support for minority groups under attack in Bangladesh, following the stepping down of prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who has since fled the country.
Saudi to pay SA pilgrims over R14. 5 million compensation
The South African Hajj and Umrah Council (Sahuc) has announced that the South Arabian ministry of Hajj and Umrah together with the service provider, have agreed to pay over 3 million to 3 500 pilgrims in the country who participated in the pilgrimage 2023, due to inadequate service delivery.
No place to pray for Muslim workers in Italian city
Since November a fraction of the city's Muslims who have been banned from praying inside their two cultural centres by Monfalcone's far-right mayor.
Politicians are targeting churches for electoral support
ANC leaders, like Panyaza Lesufi, visit Gauteng churches for election support, raising skepticism over political motives. Analysts caution against exploiting churches for political gain, urging integrity in the relationship.
Preaching ethics, morality new struggle for religious leaders
OPINION: Given the challenges our country is faced with, religious formations must be visible, writes Prof. Bheki Mngomezulu.
Controversy struck under 19’s cricketer, David Teeger snaps up seven distinctions in matric results
The controversial SA U19’s cricketer David Teeger - who labelled Israeli soldiers involved in the bombardment of Gaza as heroes - has passed his matric exams with an impressive seven distinctions, King Edward VII School school announced on Friday.
‘My mother was supposed to spend her 70th birthday in Mecca’, says victim of alleged Umrah swindler Shahied Davids
Shahied Davids will be appearing in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Friday for bail.
South African halaal body, MJC, boycotts Israeli goods
The Muslim Judicial Council’s Halaal Trust announced it would decline, refuse, and not certify any goods or services emanating from Israel.
Ambassador Getrude Mongella urges South Africans to unite for a better nation at TIFSA conference
Mongella also encouraged South Africans to spread the Ubuntu philosophy to other African nations and develop the continent.