The Faith & Culture 5

A Visual Guide to the Conclave + Happiness Research Revelation + Oklahoma’s Break from History + More

Happy Friday!

In a culture that never stops scrolling, it’s easy to miss the stuff that actually matters. That’s where I come in. Each week, I will comb through the noise to bring you five standout pieces of content—from thoughtful essays to meaningful interviews—that speak to both your soul and your curiosity. Plus, I’ll toss in one book rec you’ll actually want to finish.

So, what’s been inspiring you lately? A podcast episode, an article, a quote that won’t let go? We’d love to hear it. If you’re reading on Substack, just tap that little speech bubble below. Email readers, you can click the bubble at the top or bottom of this note to join the conversation.

Now, let’s get into this week’s picks:

1. Oklahoma is Asking the Supreme Court to Ignore History

The Founders had disagreements about the role of religion in America’s public schools, but there was always one line they would not cross.

2. How Nearly a Century of Happiness Research led to one big Finding

Many scientists at the time believed that happiness was essentially random: It was not something to cultivate, like a garden, or to reach for, by setting and achieving meaningful goals. It was something that happened to people, by virtue of their genes, their circumstances or both.

3. Musk Compare Leaving DOGE to Buddhism Without Buddha

“Is Buddha needed for Buddhism?” Musk quipped during a Wednesday briefing at the White House when asked who will fill his void when he leaves the administration.

4. Inside the Conclave

A Visual Guide on How the Next Pope Will be Elected.

5. SBC Membership Drops to its Lowest Number in 50 Years. But Baptisms are on the Rise.

While overall membership declined in 2024, the nation’s largest Protestant denomination is seeing some post-COVID-19 rebound.

—

All the Things I Say to God by Tanner Olson

Abby has been praying with her parents for as long as she can remember. They pray together before meals and before bed, on good days and tough days. Then one day Abby asks a simple question: “Mom, can I pray to God all by myself?”

Follow Abby on her journey of faith as she discovers how to express her gratitude, ask questions, pray for others, and use silence to communicate with God. Led by her own curiosity, she finds out that you can pray for anything and everything—God’s love knows no bounds.

Thank you so much for being a part of this community! I’ll see you next week.

Jm

Thanks for reading Still Christian by Jonathan Merritt! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.