Christianity, Bible & Prophecy Daily Briefing
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Five significant developments in evangelism, prayer, Bible access, Christian care, and biblical archaeology
Today’s briefing highlights a major Gospel gathering in Manchester, a nationwide UK prayer initiative beginning this weekend, a campaign to distribute more than a million Bibles, a call for churches to support people facing mental-health challenges, and new research at a site sometimes claimed to be Noah’s Ark.
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1. Manchester Gospel Gathering Reports Hundreds Responding to Jesus
October 9 report | Manchester, England
What happened?
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association reported that 10,400 people gathered at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena on October 3 for its God Loves You Tour.
The event featured Gospel preaching by Franklin Graham and worship led by Christian artists, including Charity Gayle. According to the organizers’ October 9 report, hundreds responded to the invitation to follow Jesus.
The report also shared testimonies from two teenagers who attended with family members. One described renewed confidence in her faith, while the other said he had responded to the Gospel invitation.
Churches across the region had helped invite people to the gathering, and the organizers emphasized the importance of connecting those who responded with local congregations for continued discipleship.
Why it matters
Evangelism is not simply about filling an arena. It is about proclaiming the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and helping people become His disciples.
The cooperation between local churches is particularly encouraging. A large event can open a door, but consistent biblical teaching, fellowship, prayer, and Christian accountability help people grow afterward.
Scripture connection — Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV): Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations and teach them to observe His commands.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: The event took place, organizers reported 10,400 attendees, and hundreds responded to the invitation.
* Personal testimony: Attendees described their own spiritual experiences.
* What remains unknown: Whether every person who responded will continue in Christian faith and discipleship. That fruit takes time to assess.
Sources: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: Manchester gathering report · Official Manchester event press room and photographs
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2. UK Christians Begin Nine Days of United Prayer for Their Communities and Nation
October 10–18 | United Kingdom
What happened?
The UK’s National Week of Prayer has returned for its third consecutive year, with activities scheduled from October 10 through October 18.
According to Christian Today, the initiative brings together churches, Christian organizations, and prayer networks from different traditions. Organizers report that events are planned in more than 100 locations, ranging from small gatherings in homes and workplaces to larger meetings involving church and community leaders.
This year’s theme is “Gather. Remember. Return.” Participants are being encouraged to pray for spiritual renewal, families, local communities, public life, and people in positions of influence.
A central gathering is scheduled for October 15 at the Royal Military Chapel in London. A nine-day prayer plan is also available through the YouVersion Bible App.
Why it matters
This initiative provides a practical opportunity for Christians to pray together across denominational and organizational boundaries.
Prayer can help believers slow down, seek God’s wisdom, confess where change is needed, and renew their commitment to serving others. United prayer is most fruitful when it also shapes how Christians live, forgive, give, serve, and share the Gospel.
The gathering also creates an opportunity for churches to pray for people outside their own congregations, including those experiencing hardship and those who do not yet know Jesus.
Scripture connection — 1 Timothy 2:1–2: Paul urges Christians to offer prayers and intercessions for all people, including those in positions of authority.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: The nine-day initiative is scheduled for October 10–18, with events planned at more than 100 locations according to organizers.
* Interpretation: Participants may hope for national spiritual renewal, but the existence of a prayer initiative does not establish that a revival has occurred.
* What to watch: Whether the initiative leads to sustained prayer, greater cooperation among churches, and practical service in local communities.
Sources: Christian Today: National Week of Prayer enters its third year · National Week of Prayer official website
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3. Bible Ministry Launches Campaign to Distribute More Than One Million Bibles
Reported October 3 | International Bible distribution
What happened?
Bible ministry Eastern European Mission (EEM) has announced a campaign aiming to distribute more than one million Bibles across dozens of countries, marking 500 years since William Tyndale’s English New Testament.
The campaign reflects Tyndale’s conviction that ordinary people should be able to read Scripture in a language they understand. His translation helped shape the English Bible and influenced much of the wording that English readers encounter today.
In an October 3 interview with Christian Today, EEM president Dirk Smith said the organization delivered 2.2 million books in 33 languages across 37 countries during the previous year. He also reported receiving requests for approximately four million books—more than the organization could supply with its available resources.
The interview highlighted requests for Bibles from displaced Ukrainians, as well as demand from other communities. Smith said many recipients specifically request printed copies rather than digital versions.
Why it matters
Bible distribution and Bible translation address different but related needs. A translation makes Scripture accessible in a language; distribution helps place that Scripture into people’s hands.
Printed Bibles can be especially useful for people with limited internet access, unreliable electricity, or concerns about digital privacy. A physical copy can also be shared with family members, friends, and fellow believers.
The continuing demand reported by EEM is encouraging, but it also highlights the difference between the number of Bibles an organization hopes to distribute and the number it can actually provide.
Scripture connection — Romans 10:17: Faith comes from hearing the message about Christ.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: EEM has announced a campaign with a target of more than one million Bibles. The figures for previous distribution and requests are reported by its president.
* Important distinction: The one-million figure is a campaign goal, not a confirmed total already distributed through this campaign.
* Spiritual significance: Access to Scripture creates opportunities for reading, teaching, and discipleship. Distribution figures alone cannot tell us how recipients will respond to God’s Word.
Sources: Christian Today: From Tyndale to today—the enduring hunger for the Bible · Bible Gateway's October 2026 Bible news roundup
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4. Church Called to Become a Safer Place for People Facing Mental-Health Challenges
October 1 announcement | Global Christian ministry
What happened?
For October 2026, Pope Leo XIV has made mental-health ministry the focus of his monthly prayer intention.
In a message reported by Vatican News, he called for churches to become communities where people experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental-health challenges are welcomed with dignity rather than judged or excluded.
The message acknowledged that Christians have sometimes contributed to stigma by looking away from people who are struggling. It called for greater compassion and support for those experiencing mental illness, as well as for family members, volunteers, and professionals who care for them.
Vatican News also highlighted existing work by Catholic ministries, universities, parishes, and support groups that accompany people experiencing mental-health difficulties.
Why it matters
Christian compassion should include people whose suffering is not immediately visible.
People experiencing mental-health challenges may need prayer, friendship, practical assistance, pastoral support, and appropriate professional care. These forms of support can complement one another.
The message also challenges churches to examine whether their words and actions make it easier or harder for people to ask for help. A welcoming congregation should not assume that mental illness automatically reflects weak faith or personal sin.
Scripture connection — Galatians 6:2: “Bear one another’s burdens” is Paul’s instruction to the Church.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: The October prayer intention explicitly focuses on mental-health ministry and reducing stigma.
* Practical significance: Churches are being encouraged to offer more welcoming and compassionate support.
* Important distinction: A prayer intention is not evidence that mental-health services have improved everywhere. Real progress depends on how communities put compassionate principles into practice.
Sources: Vatican News: Pope's October prayer intention for mental-health ministry · Vatican News: October prayer intention and its pastoral context
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5. New Investigation at Turkey’s Durupınar Formation Renews Debate About Noah’s Ark
October 3–7 reports | Eastern Türkiye
What happened?
Researchers are conducting a new investigation of the Durupınar Formation in eastern Türkiye, a boat-shaped geological feature that has attracted claims about Noah’s Ark for decades.
In an October 3 report, The Jerusalem Post described preliminary radar findings reported by the group Noah’s Ark Scans. The group says the scans revealed linear features, angular intersections, layered structures, and possible voids beneath the formation. Researchers involved in the project interpret some of these anomalies as potential internal structures.
The team has also begun drilling and collecting samples for laboratory analysis. A separate report from Popular Mechanics, published October 7, described soil samples with elevated organic-carbon content and noted that further analysis is needed to determine what the material represents.
However, the claims have not been independently verified or peer-reviewed. The formation has previously been interpreted by other researchers as a natural geological feature, and no conclusive archaeological evidence has established that it is Noah’s Ark.
Why it matters
The account of Noah and the Flood in Genesis 6–9 is significant to biblical theology. It describes God’s judgment, Noah’s obedience, preservation through the Flood, and the covenant that follows.
Scientific investigation can be worthwhile when it asks testable questions and allows evidence to challenge an initial hypothesis. But the importance of a biblical account does not make every proposed archaeological identification correct.
This case is a useful reminder that an anomaly is not the same thing as an artifact, and an artifact is not automatically proof of a particular biblical event.
Scripture connection — Genesis 6:14: God instructs Noah to make an ark. The biblical text describes the ark, but it does not identify the modern Durupınar formation as its location.
What is verified, and what remains unproven?
* Reported fact: A research team has conducted radar surveys and begun collecting samples at the formation.
* Preliminary claim: The team believes some of its findings could indicate a man-made structure.
* Scientific status: The findings have not been independently verified or peer-reviewed.
* Biblical conclusion: The site has not been established as Noah’s Ark. The investigation does not prove that the Flood account has received new archaeological confirmation.
Sources: The Jerusalem Post: Radar survey renews debate over Durupınar Formation · Popular Mechanics: New investigation at the proposed Noah's Ark site
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Prophecy Watch: What Should Christians Take Away Today?
These stories touch on evangelism, access to Scripture, prayer, care for vulnerable people, and a site associated by some with the biblical Flood. They offer meaningful reasons to study, pray, and remain engaged—but none establishes a specific end-times prophecy as fulfilled.
1. The Gospel is still being proclaimed
Matthew 24:14 (ESV) speaks of the Gospel of the kingdom being proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations.
The Manchester gathering and the Bible-distribution campaign relate directly to the Church’s continuing mission to proclaim Christ and make Scripture accessible.
What we can conclude: Evangelism and Bible distribution continue to be important parts of Christian mission.
What we cannot conclude: These individual developments prove that Matthew 24:14 has been fulfilled or establish the timing of Christ’s return.
2. Bible archaeology should inform—not replace—biblical interpretation
The Durupınar investigation illustrates why evidence and interpretation must be distinguished.
What we can conclude: Scientific investigation can help assess claims about historical sites associated with biblical accounts.
What we cannot conclude: Preliminary radar patterns or unusual soil samples prove that the biblical Ark has been found. That conclusion would require much stronger, independently evaluated evidence.
3. Prayer and compassionate service remain practical Christian responsibilities
The UK prayer initiative and the call for more compassionate mental-health ministry point toward two everyday responsibilities of the Church: seeking God’s wisdom and caring for people.
What we can conclude: Christians have biblical reasons to pray, support one another, and serve people who are suffering.
What we cannot conclude: A prayer campaign or ministry announcement, by itself, establishes that a national revival or prophetic fulfilment has occurred.
A Scripture-first standard for prophecy
Before accepting a claim about current events, ask:
1. What does the biblical passage explicitly say in context?
2. What facts have been independently established?
3. What part of the claim is testimony, hypothesis, or interpretation?
4. Does the conclusion follow from Scripture, or has a meaning been imposed on the event?
Today’s assessment: We have encouraging reports of evangelism, an active prayer initiative, a Bible-distribution goal, and a call for more compassionate ministry. We also have a new archaeological investigation whose claims remain unconfirmed. None of these establishes a specific biblical prophecy as fulfilled.
⸻
Today’s Scripture and Prayer
“Test everything; hold fast what is good.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (ESV)
Father God,
Thank You for every opportunity to proclaim the Gospel, for the people working to make Your Word accessible, and for churches seeking to care for those who are struggling.
Strengthen believers to make disciples faithfully, pray with perseverance, and serve their neighbours with humility and love. Give wisdom to researchers studying biblical history, and help us distinguish established evidence from speculation. Protect Christians who face persecution and those who are vulnerable, lonely, or in need of help.
Teach us to study Your Word carefully, test what we hear, and remain faithful without fear or sensationalism. May our lives point others to Jesus Christ, our hope and salvation.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
✝️ Christianity, Bible & Prophecy Daily Briefing
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Five significant developments in evangelism, prayer, Bible access, Christian care, and biblical archaeology
Today’s briefing highlights a major Gospel gathering in Manchester, a nationwide UK prayer initiative beginning this weekend, a campaign to distribute more than a million Bibles, a call for churches to support people facing mental-health challenges, and new research at a site sometimes claimed to be Noah’s Ark.
⸻
1. 🔥 Manchester Gospel Gathering Reports Hundreds Responding to Jesus
October 9 report | Manchester, England
What happened?
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association reported that 10,400 people gathered at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena on October 3 for its God Loves You Tour.
The event featured Gospel preaching by Franklin Graham and worship led by Christian artists, including Charity Gayle. According to the organizers’ October 9 report, hundreds responded to the invitation to follow Jesus.
The report also shared testimonies from two teenagers who attended with family members. One described renewed confidence in her faith, while the other said he had responded to the Gospel invitation.
Churches across the region had helped invite people to the gathering, and the organizers emphasized the importance of connecting those who responded with local congregations for continued discipleship.
Why it matters
Evangelism is not simply about filling an arena. It is about proclaiming the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and helping people become His disciples.
The cooperation between local churches is particularly encouraging. A large event can open a door, but consistent biblical teaching, fellowship, prayer, and Christian accountability help people grow afterward.
Scripture connection — Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV): Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations and teach them to observe His commands.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: The event took place, organizers reported 10,400 attendees, and hundreds responded to the invitation.
* Personal testimony: Attendees described their own spiritual experiences.
* What remains unknown: Whether every person who responded will continue in Christian faith and discipleship. That fruit takes time to assess.
Sources: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: Manchester gathering report · Official Manchester event press room and photographs
⸻
2. 🙏 UK Christians Begin Nine Days of United Prayer for Their Communities and Nation
October 10–18 | United Kingdom
What happened?
The UK’s National Week of Prayer has returned for its third consecutive year, with activities scheduled from October 10 through October 18.
According to Christian Today, the initiative brings together churches, Christian organizations, and prayer networks from different traditions. Organizers report that events are planned in more than 100 locations, ranging from small gatherings in homes and workplaces to larger meetings involving church and community leaders.
This year’s theme is “Gather. Remember. Return.” Participants are being encouraged to pray for spiritual renewal, families, local communities, public life, and people in positions of influence.
A central gathering is scheduled for October 15 at the Royal Military Chapel in London. A nine-day prayer plan is also available through the YouVersion Bible App.
Why it matters
This initiative provides a practical opportunity for Christians to pray together across denominational and organizational boundaries.
Prayer can help believers slow down, seek God’s wisdom, confess where change is needed, and renew their commitment to serving others. United prayer is most fruitful when it also shapes how Christians live, forgive, give, serve, and share the Gospel.
The gathering also creates an opportunity for churches to pray for people outside their own congregations, including those experiencing hardship and those who do not yet know Jesus.
Scripture connection — 1 Timothy 2:1–2: Paul urges Christians to offer prayers and intercessions for all people, including those in positions of authority.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: The nine-day initiative is scheduled for October 10–18, with events planned at more than 100 locations according to organizers.
* Interpretation: Participants may hope for national spiritual renewal, but the existence of a prayer initiative does not establish that a revival has occurred.
* What to watch: Whether the initiative leads to sustained prayer, greater cooperation among churches, and practical service in local communities.
Sources: Christian Today: National Week of Prayer enters its third year · National Week of Prayer official website
⸻
3. 📖 Bible Ministry Launches Campaign to Distribute More Than One Million Bibles
Reported October 3 | International Bible distribution
What happened?
Bible ministry Eastern European Mission (EEM) has announced a campaign aiming to distribute more than one million Bibles across dozens of countries, marking 500 years since William Tyndale’s English New Testament.
The campaign reflects Tyndale’s conviction that ordinary people should be able to read Scripture in a language they understand. His translation helped shape the English Bible and influenced much of the wording that English readers encounter today.
In an October 3 interview with Christian Today, EEM president Dirk Smith said the organization delivered 2.2 million books in 33 languages across 37 countries during the previous year. He also reported receiving requests for approximately four million books—more than the organization could supply with its available resources.
The interview highlighted requests for Bibles from displaced Ukrainians, as well as demand from other communities. Smith said many recipients specifically request printed copies rather than digital versions.
Why it matters
Bible distribution and Bible translation address different but related needs. A translation makes Scripture accessible in a language; distribution helps place that Scripture into people’s hands.
Printed Bibles can be especially useful for people with limited internet access, unreliable electricity, or concerns about digital privacy. A physical copy can also be shared with family members, friends, and fellow believers.
The continuing demand reported by EEM is encouraging, but it also highlights the difference between the number of Bibles an organization hopes to distribute and the number it can actually provide.
Scripture connection — Romans 10:17: Faith comes from hearing the message about Christ.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: EEM has announced a campaign with a target of more than one million Bibles. The figures for previous distribution and requests are reported by its president.
* Important distinction: The one-million figure is a campaign goal, not a confirmed total already distributed through this campaign.
* Spiritual significance: Access to Scripture creates opportunities for reading, teaching, and discipleship. Distribution figures alone cannot tell us how recipients will respond to God’s Word.
Sources: Christian Today: From Tyndale to today—the enduring hunger for the Bible · Bible Gateway's October 2026 Bible news roundup
⸻
4. ❤️ Church Called to Become a Safer Place for People Facing Mental-Health Challenges
October 1 announcement | Global Christian ministry
What happened?
For October 2026, Pope Leo XIV has made mental-health ministry the focus of his monthly prayer intention.
In a message reported by Vatican News, he called for churches to become communities where people experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental-health challenges are welcomed with dignity rather than judged or excluded.
The message acknowledged that Christians have sometimes contributed to stigma by looking away from people who are struggling. It called for greater compassion and support for those experiencing mental illness, as well as for family members, volunteers, and professionals who care for them.
Vatican News also highlighted existing work by Catholic ministries, universities, parishes, and support groups that accompany people experiencing mental-health difficulties.
Why it matters
Christian compassion should include people whose suffering is not immediately visible.
People experiencing mental-health challenges may need prayer, friendship, practical assistance, pastoral support, and appropriate professional care. These forms of support can complement one another.
The message also challenges churches to examine whether their words and actions make it easier or harder for people to ask for help. A welcoming congregation should not assume that mental illness automatically reflects weak faith or personal sin.
Scripture connection — Galatians 6:2: “Bear one another’s burdens” is Paul’s instruction to the Church.
What is verified, and what remains to be seen?
* Reported fact: The October prayer intention explicitly focuses on mental-health ministry and reducing stigma.
* Practical significance: Churches are being encouraged to offer more welcoming and compassionate support.
* Important distinction: A prayer intention is not evidence that mental-health services have improved everywhere. Real progress depends on how communities put compassionate principles into practice.
Sources: Vatican News: Pope's October prayer intention for mental-health ministry · Vatican News: October prayer intention and its pastoral context
⸻
5. 🏔️ New Investigation at Turkey’s Durupınar Formation Renews Debate About Noah’s Ark
October 3–7 reports | Eastern Türkiye
What happened?
Researchers are conducting a new investigation of the Durupınar Formation in eastern Türkiye, a boat-shaped geological feature that has attracted claims about Noah’s Ark for decades.
In an October 3 report, The Jerusalem Post described preliminary radar findings reported by the group Noah’s Ark Scans. The group says the scans revealed linear features, angular intersections, layered structures, and possible voids beneath the formation. Researchers involved in the project interpret some of these anomalies as potential internal structures.
The team has also begun drilling and collecting samples for laboratory analysis. A separate report from Popular Mechanics, published October 7, described soil samples with elevated organic-carbon content and noted that further analysis is needed to determine what the material represents.
However, the claims have not been independently verified or peer-reviewed. The formation has previously been interpreted by other researchers as a natural geological feature, and no conclusive archaeological evidence has established that it is Noah’s Ark.
Why it matters
The account of Noah and the Flood in Genesis 6–9 is significant to biblical theology. It describes God’s judgment, Noah’s obedience, preservation through the Flood, and the covenant that follows.
Scientific investigation can be worthwhile when it asks testable questions and allows evidence to challenge an initial hypothesis. But the importance of a biblical account does not make every proposed archaeological identification correct.
This case is a useful reminder that an anomaly is not the same thing as an artifact, and an artifact is not automatically proof of a particular biblical event.
Scripture connection — Genesis 6:14: God instructs Noah to make an ark. The biblical text describes the ark, but it does not identify the modern Durupınar formation as its location.
What is verified, and what remains unproven?
* Reported fact: A research team has conducted radar surveys and begun collecting samples at the formation.
* Preliminary claim: The team believes some of its findings could indicate a man-made structure.
* Scientific status: The findings have not been independently verified or peer-reviewed.
* Biblical conclusion: The site has not been established as Noah’s Ark. The investigation does not prove that the Flood account has received new archaeological confirmation.
Sources: The Jerusalem Post: Radar survey renews debate over Durupınar Formation · Popular Mechanics: New investigation at the proposed Noah's Ark site
⸻
🔎 Prophecy Watch: What Should Christians Take Away Today?
These stories touch on evangelism, access to Scripture, prayer, care for vulnerable people, and a site associated by some with the biblical Flood. They offer meaningful reasons to study, pray, and remain engaged—but none establishes a specific end-times prophecy as fulfilled.
1. The Gospel is still being proclaimed
Matthew 24:14 (ESV) speaks of the Gospel of the kingdom being proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations.
The Manchester gathering and the Bible-distribution campaign relate directly to the Church’s continuing mission to proclaim Christ and make Scripture accessible.
What we can conclude: Evangelism and Bible distribution continue to be important parts of Christian mission.
What we cannot conclude: These individual developments prove that Matthew 24:14 has been fulfilled or establish the timing of Christ’s return.
2. Bible archaeology should inform—not replace—biblical interpretation
The Durupınar investigation illustrates why evidence and interpretation must be distinguished.
What we can conclude: Scientific investigation can help assess claims about historical sites associated with biblical accounts.
What we cannot conclude: Preliminary radar patterns or unusual soil samples prove that the biblical Ark has been found. That conclusion would require much stronger, independently evaluated evidence.
3. Prayer and compassionate service remain practical Christian responsibilities
The UK prayer initiative and the call for more compassionate mental-health ministry point toward two everyday responsibilities of the Church: seeking God’s wisdom and caring for people.
What we can conclude: Christians have biblical reasons to pray, support one another, and serve people who are suffering.
What we cannot conclude: A prayer campaign or ministry announcement, by itself, establishes that a national revival or prophetic fulfilment has occurred.
A Scripture-first standard for prophecy
Before accepting a claim about current events, ask:
1. What does the biblical passage explicitly say in context?
2. What facts have been independently established?
3. What part of the claim is testimony, hypothesis, or interpretation?
4. Does the conclusion follow from Scripture, or has a meaning been imposed on the event?
Today’s assessment: We have encouraging reports of evangelism, an active prayer initiative, a Bible-distribution goal, and a call for more compassionate ministry. We also have a new archaeological investigation whose claims remain unconfirmed. None of these establishes a specific biblical prophecy as fulfilled.
⸻
🙏 Today’s Scripture and Prayer
“Test everything; hold fast what is good.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (ESV)
Father God,
Thank You for every opportunity to proclaim the Gospel, for the people working to make Your Word accessible, and for churches seeking to care for those who are struggling.
Strengthen believers to make disciples faithfully, pray with perseverance, and serve their neighbours with humility and love. Give wisdom to researchers studying biblical history, and help us distinguish established evidence from speculation. Protect Christians who face persecution and those who are vulnerable, lonely, or in need of help.
Teach us to study Your Word carefully, test what we hear, and remain faithful without fear or sensationalism. May our lives point others to Jesus Christ, our hope and salvation.
In Jesus’ name, amen.