#ourCOG Daily Brief [May 10, 2026]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for May 10, 2026.

Today in U.S. news, the nation looks ahead to its 250th anniversary, reflecting on the Declaration of Independence’s global impact amidst ongoing political polarization at home. Discussions are also heating up around immigrant children’s rights to public education, with some pushing to restrict access. Meanwhile, President Trump’s threats regarding Iran are reportedly prompting Europe to consider more independent defense strategies. On a local level, communities are grappling with “teen takeovers,” seeking ways to foster connection and maintain peace, while cities like Boston are urgently addressing school bus delays. Internationally, a U.S.-mediated ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia is under severe strain, with both sides reporting weekend attacks. In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour Party suffered significant losses in regional elections, signaling voter frustration. And in the Middle East, while U.S.-Israel working ties remain close, many Israelis are concerned about plummeting American public support and the broader crisis in their relationship.

In our video lineup, you can catch details on the International Praise Church Men’s Health Awareness event scheduled for June 5th and 6th in Elgin, SC. We also have “Living Proof” with Pastor April Garner, and highlights from Citylife Church’s Sunday Services.

Turning to Faith News, recent headlines include hundreds attending the Smoky Mountain Gathering, ECFA applauding a House vote on the Clergy Act, the Executive Council completing its April Session, and the exciting opening of the first Christian Startup School.

For a look at the latest prophecy news, new satellite images reveal Iran expanding defenses around its Esfahan nuclear tunnel complex, believed to house highly enriched uranium. There’s also discussion around whether we are witnessing the collapse of the LGBTQ+ movement, with data indicating a decline in identification among young people. Disturbingly, a child exploitation sting recently led to the arrest of more than two dozen cruise ship employees, including Disney cruise workers. And in a fascinating claim, the Sanhedrin has formally suggested that Persia’s founding prophet, Zoroaster, was in fact the biblical Mordechai.

Finally, in Jewish history, looking back to May 11th, the year 330 saw Roman Emperor Constantine I rename Byzantium to Nova Roma, later Constantinople, establishing it as the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. This move not only showcased Constantine’s growing power but also significantly impacted relations between Jews and Christians, setting a precedent that continues to resonate today, and further fueling the schism between Western and Eastern Christians. Later, in 1175, thirteen assassins were thwarted in their attempt to murder Saladin, just thirteen years before he would famously drive the Crusaders from Jerusalem.