Ideas have consequences and the battle for ideas is important in any age, but especially in our own day, when relativism, secularism and intentional disinformation are rampant in our world. Thus, in an astonishing and shocking act, President Trump, on 15 March 2025, ordered the termination of grants for Radio Free Asia and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Voice of America, the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (Radio and Television Marti), the Open Technology Fund and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks are also being dismantled.

For my wife, Peggy, and me, one of our favorite pastimes is to visit our local Barnes and Noble bookstore. We spend about 60 to 90 minutes perusing the multitude of books throughout the store. I often read and skim a new book to determine if I wish to purchase it. During a recent visit, I read through the new book by religious writer Elaine Pagels, the Harrington Spear Paine (Emeritus) Professor of Religion at Princeton University. She gives focus to practice and tradition, not necessarily specific theological doctrine or content. She has done extensive research into Gnosticism and its connection to Christianity. She has argued that “belief is overrated” and that is what is most important is what we practice. Perhaps her most important book is The Gnostic Gospels.