AGP Executive Report

Jewish-Canadian Museum Row: Mark Berlin resigned from the Canadian Museum for Human Rights over its planned “Palestine Uprooted: Nakba Past and Present” exhibit, saying it presents a “one-sided perspective” that omits the expulsion of Jews from Arab states. Court & Faith in Practice: A blind Catholic man in Pakistan was acquitted of blasphemy after nearly 10 months in jail, while in Edinburgh a man faces attempted murder charges after an anti-Muslim attack spree. Sectarian Fault Lines: Analysis argues Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s assassination triggered rare Shia-Sunni solidarity around Palestine, even as Iran-Saudi tensions threaten reconciliation. Religious Freedom vs. Public Safety: Ghana’s state is cracking down on rogue religious figures, using cyber monitoring and targeted investigations to pursue fraud and dangerous claims. Church in the Spotlight: Japan’s Supreme Court confirmed the dissolution of the Unification Church, ending a long legal fight. Community & Service: A Liverpool church building reopened as a pub won a national design award, while St German’s Church in Cardiff was recognized for its winter night shelter work. Faith, Identity, and Conversion: Hollywood actor Giancarlo Esposito reportedly embraced Islam in Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan’s Muslim lawyers’ group condemned a Kaduna mob killing tied to alleged child theft.

Montreal Jewish community under siege: A gunman opened fire in Côte-des-Neiges, killing a police officer and Rabbi Michael Moshe Mizrahi and triggering lockdowns across one of Canada’s most heavily Jewish neighborhoods. Religious freedom in court: In Orlando, a U.S.-Israeli citizen was arraigned over alleged threats to Jewish institutions, including bomb and active-shooter calls that led to closures and evacuations. Catholic rights dispute eases: Oregon withdrew disciplinary action against a Catholic counselor after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, after sanctions tied to refusing to “bless” a client’s same-sex relationship. Interfaith and community life: U.S. Catholic bishops kicked off Religious Freedom Week, while in Pakistan religious leaders held a Muharram solidarity breakfast promoting tolerance and peace. Faith amid everyday needs: A Louisiana church partnered with a gospel group to support disability nonprofits, and a Texas-area church expanded food assistance for families facing rising costs. Church and state tensions: A U.S. city council is set for a closed-door discussion over litigation involving an overnight safe-parking permit at All Saints Episcopal Church. Faith and violence concerns abroad: Reports say India demolished dozens of Muslim religious sites in 45 days, intensifying worries about treatment of Muslim places of worship.

Religious Freedom & Safety: Scotland’s police charged a 36-year-old man after suspected anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh left five injured, with leaders including the UK prime minister and Muslim groups pointing to anti-Muslim rhetoric fueling violence. Community & Leadership: Zimbabwean preacher Prophet Effort Vakai Maposa joined global Christians at SCOAN in Lagos to mark the fifth anniversary of Temitope Balogun Joshua (T B Joshua), calling him a “spiritual father” to his followers. Jewish Life: Joliet Jewish Congregation named Rabbi Brian Serle as its new spiritual leader, while a Jewish group urged a human rights museum to reconsider a “Nakba” exhibit. Faith, Education & Training: Qatar celebrated 48 graduates from 45 countries at its Institute of Religious Studies, and Papua New Guinea’s Seventh-day Adventist women completed financial literacy training. Church & Public Life: New Baltimore Reformed Church in New York received a $17,000 grant for steeple restoration, and Kenya’s Evangelical Alliance issued a pre-2027 election “moral audit” calling for electoral reforms and action against political violence. Digital Influence & Religion: A report alleges an Israel-funded campaign used digital targeting to influence Christians across hundreds of US churches, reigniting debate over foreign influence in religious spaces. Religion in the Spotlight: Actor Giancarlo Esposito reportedly embraced Islam in Saudi Arabia, with videos of him praying inside a mosque going viral.

Anti-Muslim Violence in Scotland: Counter-terror police are investigating suspected anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh that left five men injured, with a 36-year-old man charged after threats, robbery and vandalism; leaders including PM Keir Starmer and Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney condemned the violence and urged unity. Islam in Pop Culture: Hollywood actor Giancarlo Esposito reportedly embraced Islam in Saudi Arabia, reciting the shahada and praying with his film crew while filming “7 Dogs,” shared by Saudi entertainment officials. Christian Persecution Claims (Nigeria): U.S. Congressman Riley Moore alleges mass killings and church burnings in Nigeria, criticizing the Biden administration’s handling of religious freedom concerns. Church Leadership Dispute: Rhema Bible Church released more details on the removal of COO Craig Hagin, citing “documented evidence” of conduct inconsistent with ministry standards. Orthodox Church Diplomacy (Turkey): Erdogan ordered talks to reopen the Halki Orthodox seminary near Istanbul, a long-stalled issue tied to international pressure and U.S. diplomacy. Hajj 2027 (Pakistan): Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs announced Hajj registration will begin June 22, with no fee and first-come, first-served processing. Religion & Health Research (US): A BYU-led review reports consistent religious practice is linked to better mental, physical and social health outcomes. Streaming Rights (UK): UK proposals would protect “crown jewel” sports from being locked behind paywalls, including World Cup catch-up access.

Muslim-friendly tourism push: Uzbekistan is looking to Malaysia’s halal ecosystem and Muslim-friendly travel services for lessons as it expands its own tourism plans. Anti-Muslim violence in Scotland: UK PM Keir Starmer condemned suspected anti-Muslim attacks in Edinburgh that left five injured; police say a 36-year-old man has been charged and counter-terror officers are investigating. Celebrity conversion sparks debate: Hollywood actor Giancarlo Esposito reportedly recited the Shahada and prayed at a mosque in Saudi Arabia while filming “Seven Dogs,” with Saudi officials sharing the claim. Churches and community support: Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud is joining Minnesota’s summer hunger challenge, while a church in Indianola hosted an inaugural Juneteenth festival aimed at making it an annual event. Misinformation corrected: A viral claim about Muslim grave destruction in India was debunked as footage from Indonesia clearing an old graveyard. Jewish history in focus: New York’s Museum of Jewish Heritage is spotlighting Holocaust survivor Paul Mahrer through a new installation built from letters and documents.

Anti-Muslim Violence in Edinburgh: Scotland’s counterterror unit is investigating suspected anti-Muslim attacks after a 36-year-old man was arrested following reports of threats, robbery and vandalism that left five men injured near mosques and shops; officials say there’s no life-threatening harm and leaders warn the violence is fueled by faith-based hate. Interfaith Community Support: In West Reading, a Reform synagogue and a local church teamed up to offer free refreshments and family activities at a street arts event, aiming to show faith communities can stand together. Catholic Climate Action: A Quezon parish in the Philippines expanded its solar setup, adding a 10-kilowatt system to cut costs and support “care for our common home.” Pope on Migration: Pope Leo XIV visited Mother Cabrini’s birthplace in Italy, praising her as a model for Christians serving migrants in need. Judaism and Identity: Commentary highlights how Reform Judaism has wrestled with universal ethics versus renewed ties to Israel, arguing that post–Oct. 7 diaspora identity now requires urgent investment. Church Safety After Fire: Brooklyn’s 173-year-old South Bushwick Reformed Church faces an uncertain future after a major blaze damaged the worship hall and rectory, with officials expected to assess whether parts must be leveled.

Church-State & Holy Sites: Jordan condemned Israel’s seizure of Greek Orthodox Patriarchate land in Silwan, calling it a blatant breach of the status quo in Jerusalem. Religious Freedom & Justice: India’s Church hailed the acquittal of an elderly Missionaries of Charity nun and two others in a high-profile child trafficking case in Ranchi. Violence Against Minorities: Pakistan’s HRCP condemned the killing of Sikh gurdwara caretakers in Mardan and urged stronger protection and oversight for minority worship sites. Community Safety & Hate: A rapist in the UK was jailed for using Snapchat to target young Muslim and South Asian men with sextortion threats. Interfaith Tensions: In Hyderabad, residents apologized after allegedly calling a Muslim man “Pakistani” during a rent dispute, sparking outrage and police scrutiny. Church in the News: A massive fire destroyed the 173-year-old South Bushwick Reformed Church in Brooklyn; the cause remains under investigation. Faith & Public Life: The Episcopal Church put its New York headquarters on the market as it seeks a long-term ground lease, reflecting shifting institutional needs. Religion & Society: A National Muslim Conference in Bulgaria will elect new leadership, including a new Chief Mufti, on June 21. Local Faith Initiatives: A Catholic parish in Pagbilao, Quezon added a 10-kilowatt solar system to its rectory, bringing total capacity to 25 kilowatts.

Religious freedom in court: The U.S. DOJ joined Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne’s lawsuit challenging New York’s rule requiring nursing facilities to accommodate transgender women, arguing it violates the sisters’ equal-protection rights. Church-state conflict: Armenia’s Administrative Court ruled police inaction at Surb Astvatsatsin Church was unlawful after a threatened altar intrusion. Hate crime and safety: A 19-year-old in Miami-Dade faces hate-crime charges after victims in a predominantly Jewish neighborhood were sprayed with a liquid from a water gun. Jewish community life: A Juneteenth gathering at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bowie highlighted hundreds of unmarked graves found behind the parish, tying faith, history, and remembrance. Interfaith culture: The Philippines jumped to No. 5 in a Global Muslim Travel Index for non-OIC destinations, citing faith-compatible tourism efforts. Sports and faith clash: Florida and the DOJ are probing MLB over alleged religious discrimination after San Francisco Giants players wore Bible verses during Pride Night. Local church news: A historic Reformed Church in South Bushwick was heavily damaged by a major fire, with the cause under investigation.

Religious Freedom & Rights: Ahead of US bishops’ Religious Freedom Week, a USCCB official says religious freedom is “rooted in human dignity,” urging prayer for threats at home and abroad. Faith & Public Life: Jordan’s cabinet approved changes letting Christians opt out of male-based Sharia inheritance via verified wills and legally adopt Christian children. Interfaith Tensions in India: Madras High Court paused a plan to build a church near a century-old Mariyamman temple in Coimbatore, citing Hindu objections and possible “mala fide” intent. Violence Against Worshippers: Christian Solidarity Worldwide says a mob attacked Christians during a service in Chhattisgarh, injuring dozens and alleging delayed police action. Community Support: Lagos State enlisted religious leaders to lead HIV prevention and fight stigma, stressing treatment is no longer a death sentence. Church & Housing: A North Lawndale church-backed effort has spent decades building housing for residents, turning a faith mission into thousands of homes. Culture & Craft: Liverpool Parish Church unveiled “Skalli,” a Mersey folklore-inspired sculpture, while libraries and churches run jewelry upcycling and stained-glass restoration projects.

Church hurt and healing: A pastor argues that pain inside congregations isn’t authored by God, urging believers to seek restoration after betrayal or judgment. Local church life: First Baptist Church in Jasper schedules Vacation Bible School (June 22–26), while Holy Trinity Church in Gainesville marks 25 years with Mass and a festival. Catholic leadership and culture: A Pew poll finds Pope Leo XIV remains popular with U.S. Catholics, but partisan polarization is rising. AI and faith: New research says chatbots often overlook religion and can even favor some faiths—Catholicism included. Interfaith bridgebuilding: A Q&A pairs an imam and a rabbi on shared community safety work and religious coexistence. Justice and religious freedom: A federal court orders release of Wisconsin Muslim leader Salah Sarsour from ICE detention. Hate and security: A Florida man is indicted for a thwarted mass shooting plot targeting a Jewish organization. Church governance and property: A Catholic diocese in Vermont plans to sell its South Burlington headquarters amid bankruptcy tied to abuse claims. Eastern Christianity: Pope Leo XIV warns that misunderstanding Eastern Catholic traditions impoverishes the wider Church.

Church & State Accountability: The Church of England’s Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally apologized to survivors of forced adoptions, saying “the shame is ours,” while campaigners criticized the lack of consultation and compensation clarity. Sikh Community & Leadership: Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini marked Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom day in Panchkula, urging citizens to live by truth, compassion, equality and service. Immigration Preparedness: The Sikh Coalition launched an “Immigrant Family Preparedness Guide” in English and Punjabi, offering practical “know your rights” steps for families facing immigration emergencies. Religious Freedom & Politics: A Jewish candidate, Joe Kaufman, skipped a Florida GOP debate because it conflicts with Shabbat, framing it as religious commitment not politics. Security for Worshippers: UK mosques were urged to run lockdown drills and strengthen ties with police under new guidance from the Muslim Council of Britain amid rising anti-Muslim hate crime fears. Violence Against Minorities: Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa saw a Sikh caretaker couple shot dead inside a gurdwara in Mardan, prompting calls for arrests and stronger protection. Cultural Heritage Loss: France suffered two major fires in days, destroying a 17th-century chapel roof in Brittany and damaging archives at Condom Cathedral. Faith in Public Life: Pope Leo XIV urged Christians to reread the Gospel amid migration challenges, calling for a “civilization of love.” Community Life: A Catholic diocese in San Diego expanded its Million Meal Event to pack 2 million meals with thousands of volunteers.

Religious Freedom in Schools: Florida AG James Uthmeier says public schools must accommodate parents seeking release time for religious instruction, pushing back on “blanket denials.” Catholic Church & Life Issues: England and Wales Catholic bishops decry the reintroduction of an assisted-suicide bill, urging better palliative care instead. Pope on Migration: Pope Leo XIV, reflecting on Spain, calls migration a Christian test that demands Christians “reread the Gospel” and work toward a “civilization of love.” Anti-Hate & Community Solidarity: Montreal’s Asian community leaders rallied with the Jewish community after a firebombing attempt on a synagogue, condemning antisemitism. Israel, Faith, and Draft Tensions: Ultra-Orthodox men protested Israel’s conscription and demanded release of draft resisters. Local Church Stories: A historic St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Stockbridge completed water-protection renovations; Ocean City faces a church lawsuit over fines tied to its homeless shelter. Faith in Action: The LDS Church delivered America250 food trucks to all 50 states, while Commonwealth Catholic Charities hosted a World Refugee Day film event. Security & Violence: Police investigate vandalism at a Quebec Islamic culture centre and a Sikh caretaker couple gunned down at a gurdwara in Pakistan.

Religious Ethics & Politics: Sweden’s Church of Sweden has opened an ethics probe into Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson’s wife, Birgitta Ed, over complaints tied to a spiritual foundation’s fundraising and use of church contacts. Sikh Community Under Pressure: In Pakistan’s Mardan, a Sikh caretaker couple was shot dead at a gurdwara, while in Punjab, Akal Takht leaders say a viral video of Bhagwant Mann allegedly committing sacrilege is authentic and label him “anti-Guru.” Crime Hits Faith Spaces: Mumbai police arrested two men, including a Goldstar Jewellery employee, in a staged fake-robbery case involving ₹60.65 lakh in jewellery. Faith Leaders & Public Life: American Buddhist scholar Robert Thurman, co-founder of Tibet House US, has died at 84. Community Support: Moncks Corner Baptist Church expanded its soup kitchen to serve about 1,000 people monthly, backed by a major grant. Religious Freedom & Crackdowns: ChinaAid reports Chinese authorities detained two elders from Early Rain Covenant Church after a raid on an underground Protestant gathering in Sichuan. Global Religious Hostility: Pew reports more countries saw spikes in religion-related social hostility in 2023, with Christians facing harassment in the most countries.

Security & Faith: FBI probes an abandoned Nebraska church tied to a DOJ-described plot targeting the White House UFC event, with alleged plans aimed at Trump, JD Vance, Netanyahu and Elon Musk. Religious Freedom Watch: Pew reports government restrictions on religion remain high worldwide, with China, Iran and others scoring worst—while the U.S. stays relatively low. Church Under Pressure: Poland faces another sharp drop in priestly ordinations, with 2026 projected under 200. Ukraine & Religion: Russian strikes killed at least 11 and damaged or set on fire a major religious site in Kyiv. Catholic Life: Pope Leo XIV urged faith leaders at an Austria summit to treat climate action as a moral duty. Judaism & Community: Festival Sefarad continues with an America250 symposium and Tony winner Ari’el Stachel’s Jewish journey program. U.S. Culture & Religion: Gallup finds 65% of Americans say more religiosity would benefit society, with big gaps by age and party. LGBTQ+ Worship: Drag performer Pura Luka Vega “serves communion” at a progressive LGBTQIA+-affirming church, sparking online debate.

LGBTQIA+ Communion in the Philippines: Drag artist Pura Luka Vega helped serve communion at Open Table Metropolitan Community Church, framing the Eucharist as an “open table” for queer believers. Religious Freedom Under Pressure in China: Police raided Early Rain Covenant Church during Sunday worship in Sichuan, detaining dozens, including children, after officials disrupted the service. Persecution Watch in Ethiopia: Calls for support are growing for Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia’s Arsi Zone after coordinated attacks killed believers and destroyed Telata St. Gabriel Church. Catholic Shortage Story in Cuba: Cuban Catholic parishes began rationing Communion wafers as power cuts and production limits worsen. Antisemitism Incident in the UK: A Jewish guest at a London Travelodge reported a “Free Palestine” message appearing on a room TV, prompting an apology and an investigation. Forced Conversion Allegations in India: In Nagpur, police arrested two men after a woman accused them of drugging, rape, blackmail, and forced religious conversion, with a third suspect sought. Church vs. Housing in New Jersey: Paterson’s zoning board rejected plans to demolish a historic 1880s church for apartments. Christian Unity Effort: Baptist World Alliance leaders met Pope Tawadros II in Egypt to plan Baptist–Coptic Orthodox dialogue ahead of a 2,000th-anniversary commemoration. Religion in US Politics: JD Vance said he drifted from Christianity as a young man, blaming a lack of Christian friendships. Sikh Governance Clash: Punjab’s Akal Takht and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann traded accusations over an anti-sacrilege law and a disputed AI video.

Kyiv’s Christian heritage under fire: Russian strikes set ablaze the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra complex, with Zelenskyy calling it an attack on Christian culture and urging decisive G7 support. Religious freedom and violence: In South Sudan’s Gorom refugee camp, Muslims assaulted a Sudanese Christian inside his church, underscoring how sacred spaces become targets. Antisemitism spotlight in US schools: Cornell opened an investigation after a student reportedly rejected a Jewish-owned internship with “Not interested in working for a Jew,” triggering backlash and scrutiny. Jewish community safety: Ann Arbor’s Jewish Community Center was vandalized overnight with antisemitic graffiti tied by ADL to a wider online network. Israel-Iran diplomacy and Jewish politics: US Jewish leaders across the spectrum voiced alarm over Trump’s Iran deal, warning key security questions remain unclear. Church life and community events: Canada’s East Preston United Baptist Church broke ground on a $3.5M expansion to build a lasting community hub. Local faith amid crime: Police reported jewelry scams and thefts tied to church-adjacent neighborhoods, while a South Lanarkshire break-in left a resident shaken.