The Banner published hundreds of columns, reviews, and news stories and dozens of features, editorials, and opinion pieces in 2025. Here are the top 5 most-accessed articles online in each category between January and December.This mix shows heavy interest in the evolution of The Banner’s mandate an
Why, despite all we know of the negative effects of social media, do so many of us continue to use it and allow our children and grandkids to use it?I remember hearing the news years ago—around 2009, I think—that social media had eclipsed pornography in the number of online users. This was great new
To send letters to the editor, please see our guidelines at thebanner.org/letters.A Master WeaverWe were so moved to see this recent article honoring the extraordinary life and legacy of Julia Jumbo (1928–2007)—a master weaver from Toadlena, N.M., and recipient of one of Southwestern Association for
And Mary said,“My soul magnifies the Lord,And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”Luke 1:46-47When my husband and I lived in Mexico City, we would often go to the artisan park on Saturday mornings. Our favorite artist was a man who worked on his art while he sat in the park. He had a huge magnifyin
Ever since my harrowing, whirlwind birth experience four and a half years ago, involving an emergency C-section that had me asleep on the table, my husband in another room, as a doctor I didn’t know pulled my firstborn son from my womb, I have felt a strange kinship with Mary.In the following hours
I'm usually the type of person who likes to stay busy. In college I put effort into making new friends, joining on-campus activities, and taking classes outside my main field of study. I was usually able to balance all those things pretty well, but the extra logistics of graduation and a senior thes
For the past several years, my job has been related to child care (my own and others). As my children grow, I'm wondering how I can earn income in a different way and still be available for my children. Where do I start figuring out what's next?As you enter a new phase of life, it can be exciting an
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner. The Banner h
What is the CRC stance and Christian view of MAID (Medically Assisted Induced Dying)? How can we support loved ones who are asking about this and making these decisions?The CRC has a strong word on this. Synod 2025 unanimously voted to approve this language: “that synod deplore the legalization and
It's 200 pounds. It's six feet tall. It smells incredibly horrible—like a dead animal.Is it your great-uncle Fred? Surprisingly, no! It's the world's stinkiest plant: the corpse flower.The corpse flower, or carrion flower, got its name because of the disgusting stench it emits when its flower blooms
Pastor Jim had always prided himself on his tireless dedication to his congregation. But one evening, as he prepared yet another sermon late into the night, his young son walked into his study and climbed onto his lap. "Daddy, when do you rest?" the boy asked. Pastor Jim hesitated, realizing he had
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.It was the mi
Too often, sin is reduced to a list of wrong actions—lying, cheating, stealing. But Scripture shows us that sin is far more than bad behavior. At its root, sin is a broken relationship: with God, with one another, and even with creation. It’s not just about doing wrong; it’s about turning away from
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner. The Banner h
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.After World W
When prayers are not answered the way we want, how do I help my child understand?Children sometimes can think of prayer as a way to present God with a list of things they’d like God to do. This makes sense because, in Philippians 4:6 we read, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation
Fall has me thinking of birthdays. Mine and my two siblings’ are within a month of each other in October and November. Last year, a significant round number for me, had me wanting to spend it with them—a rare treat since we live four Canadian provinces apart. This November, as I take my turn for a g
To send letters to the editor, please see our guidelines at thebanner.org/letters.Maddi’s BraceletI enjoyed reading Andrew de Gelder's column about the bracelet he wears to remind him of a spiritual insight (“Maddi’s Bracelet,” June 2025). Many years ago, I picked up a small stuffed rooster at a cra
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.I remember it
"She's a smart and good student; her problem is that she never speaks in class." This was the comment I dreaded hearing from teachers each year growing up. While these comments probably came from a good place, they led me to believe there was something wrong with the way I was. I've always been a na