Anchorage pastors issue call to reject racism because all are ‘created in God’s image’
Editor’s note: A group of 21 Anchorage pastors issued a joint letter introducing a new initiative that aims to combat racism by building relationships across racial divides and affirming that all people have inherent dignity because they are created in
Newly installed Alaska archbishop denounces divisions in church
Pope Francis’ personal ambassador to the United States was in Anchorage on Sept. 17 for the installation of Archbishop Andrew Bellisario as the first archbishop of the newly formed Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau. Representing the Vatican, Archbishop
Ketchikan mayor defends religious liberty, vows to veto gender identity ordinance
After an emotional and somewhat philosophical discussion about gender identity, religious freedom and discrimination, the Ketchikan Borough Assembly voted 6-1 in favor of a resolution asking the Alaska Legislature to pass a law that prohibits discrimination
Another church refuses to follow Anchorage mayor’s restriction on group size
Yet another prominent Anchorage church has chosen to remain open for communal worship in the face of Mayor Ethan Berkowitz’s latest emergency order limiting all religious gatherings to 15 people or less. Cornerstone Church was open for Sunday worship on
Republicans far more likely to attend church during COVID
The more conservative one’s political views, the more comfortable they are with attending religious services over the past few months. Republicans and Democrats hold vastly different views on COVID-19, including how worried they are about the virus. These
Prominent Alaska church defies mayor’s order restricting religious services
Anchorage Baptist Temple is standing up to Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz’s latest emergency order that bans churches from having more than 15 people in attendance. On Sunday, Aug. 9, Pastor Ron Hoffman gave an inspired sermon to a large gathering inside
Alaska Attorney General supports high school coach’s right to pray on field
Alaska Attorney General Kevin Clarkson joined 21 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief to the Ninth Circuit in support of a Washington state high school football coach who was fired for exercising his religious freedom by praying after games. Kennedy,
Alaskans scramble to save historic church from falling off cliff
One of the oldest churches in Alaska, and a spiritual treasure to Orthodox Alaska Natives, is on the verge of falling off a massive cliff on Kodiak Island. Built in 1888 by the Russian Orthodox, The Ascension of Our Lord Chapel located near the remote Village
Mayor’s latest emergency order again treats Anchorage churches as non-essential
Update from editor: While the actual text of Mayor Berkowitz’s latest emergency order makes no mention of churches or religious exemptions, his legal department clarified on July 23 that churches will be allowed to operate under a previous order which
Governor to join Alaska pastors prayer rally for racial reconciliation
Gov. Mike Dunleavy has agreed to join Alaskans in prayer to seek healing and racial reconciliation. The online prayer gathering will occur on July 16 and will be hosted by Alaska churches and ministries. “Let us mobilize all pastors, prayer warriors, and
The Alaska Watchman aims to raise awareness of key issues affecting Alaskans. Coming from a broadly Judeo-Christian perspective, we are committed to the highest standards of journalism and ethical reporting.
Our reports look to inform and equip Alaskans to effectively engage the culture for the common good. Please keep your comments respectful.
NEWS TIPS
SUPPORT
© Copyright 2025 - Alaska Watchman • All Rights Reserved