Thrill-seekers at the long-running Auckland Easter Show have been left disappointed after its main ride provider set up a rival event, breaking a 60-year tradition.

Christian communities across Pakistan have launched angry protests after a Muslim mob set fire to a Christian neighbourhood in Lahore.

Christian community leaders in Lahore say the violence unleashed on the Pakistani city's Joseph colony erupted after a drinking session involving two friends, one Muslim and the other Christian.

In the battle for believers, Christianity is losing out to religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam.

A prominent theologian says parents are confused about the word "religion", making them more likely to pull their children out of religious classes.

People take pleasure in cross-cultural experiences, especially immigrants who will see Christmas as an endearing feature of their adopted homeland

Biblical insight adds meaning to the festive period of gift-giving, writes Michael Hewat.