By FāVS News Staff
Man stabbed in Washington after declaring his Christian faith
A 54-year-old man was seriously injured after being stabbed in Washington state early morning on Jan. 25. The victim, identified as Eddie Nitschke, was attacked after responding to a stranger’s question about his religion, stating he was Christian. The incident occurred near a convenience store where Nitschke lives in his car with his girlfriend and dogs.
Upon arrival, deputies found Nitschke and his dog in critical condition. He was quickly transported to a local hospital, where he later discharged himself. Doctors also discovered he has a blood clot and lung cancer during his treatment. His dog underwent emergency surgery and has since been released.
The suspect, armed with multiple knives, attempted to escape police and was found hiding behind a home over two hours later. He resisted arrest and lunged at deputies, resulting in him being shot. He later died at a nearby hospital.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation, seeking witnesses and gathering evidence. No further details about the suspect or the motive behind the attack have been released. For more, watch KING 5’s coverage here.
Olympia moves toward protections for polyamorous and nontraditional families
Olympia could become the first city in Washington to protect polyamorous families and other nontraditional household structures under city law. The Olympia City Council unanimously approved a referral to draft an ordinance that would add “family or relationship structure” to the city’s list of protected classes. If adopted, the ordinance would prohibit discrimination against a wide range of family types, including polyamorous, non-monogamous, multigenerational, blended and chosen families.
Council member Robert Vanderpool said the proposal responds to community requests and would expand civil liberties for residents facing housing, medical or other forms of discrimination. The council aims to consider adoption of the ordinance on Feb. 10, potentially setting a precedent for other cities statewide.
Bethany Presbyterian Church demolished church for affordable housing project
Bethany Presbyterian Church on South Hill demolished its old building last week, paving the way for “The Bethany Project,” a $12 million community campus. Following a fire in 2022 that closed the church, the new space will feature a smaller sanctuary, a community center and 22 housing units — half designated for low-income families through THRIVE International and Spokane’s Family Promise. Additional amenities will include a communal kitchen and playground. The congregation, currently meeting at Knox Presbyterian Church, is optimistic about starting construction soon, aiming for completion by Easter 2027. Donations for the project are welcomed as the church seeks to support those in need.
West Central Abbey hosts first ‘Rave’
The West Central Abbey, 1832 W. Dean Ave., will host its first Vinyl Lounge ‘Rave” Friday at 6 p.m. Attendees will get to explore the world of electronic dance music and have a chance to create their own levitation wand. There is no need to RSVP or get a ticket. Guests are just welcome to show up. The event will feature the music of Daft Punk, along with a live performance from a local flow artist.
Series Explores ‘Solo Aging’ with national thought leader Nancy Ruffner
Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington will host a three-part presentation series, “Solo Aging,” led by national thought leader Nancy Ruffner on Feb. 5, 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. The series will be offered both in person at the ALTCEW office, 1313 N. Atlantic St. #3000, and via Zoom, with snacks and beverages provided for in-person attendees.
Ruffner, a Solo Ager herself, will explore what it means to age without built-in family support, why it matters and practical strategies for navigating aging independently. Each session includes time for audience Q&A. The series is open to seniors, caregivers, professionals, religious leaders and anyone interested in aging issues. Registration is $12 for virtual attendance or $18 in person for all three sessions. Those interested need to register online.
Whitworth launches Whitworth Online for working adults
Whitworth University has launched Whitworth Online, a new identity for its degree completion programs serving adult learners. Building on more than a century of experience, Whitworth Online offers fully online, flexible degree pathways designed for working professionals balancing careers, families and community commitments. The programs respond to growing workforce needs while providing clear opportunities for adults with some college credit to finish their degrees. The launch replaces the former Whitworth School of Continuing Studies.
Rosa Parks birthday celebrated by Faith Leaders and Leaders of Conscience with donations
Rosa Parks’ birthday will be celebrated by area Faith Leaders and Leaders of Conscience by giving her “gifts” — donations to the MLK Family Outreach Center. This year’s needs are diapers of all sizes! This is FLLC’s 5th Annual Rosa Parks’ Birthday Party, which will include cake and a Parks’ trivia competition. The party will be Feb, 8, from 1 to 2 p.m., at the Veradale United Church of Christ, 611 N. Progress Road. Celebrants can bring their donations then.
Pacific Yew guest speaker series features Adventist Muslim relations expert
Coeur d’Alene Adventist Church will host Gabriella Phillips, North American Division coordinator for Adventist Muslim Relations, Feb. 13-14. Phillips and her husband bring over 25 years of ministry experience across Central Asia, the Middle East and North America.
The seminar explores Muslim perspectives on Christianity and provides practical guidance for community engagement. Sessions begin Friday, Feb. 13 at 6 p.m., continuing Sabbath with meetings at 9:30 and 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch and an afternoon session at 2 p.m. Childcare is available for Friday evening and Sabbath afternoon. All sessions will be live-streamed on the church’s Facebook and YouTube pages. Call 208-664-5473 for more information.
FāVS News uses professional journalists and thoughtful commentary to explore faith, values and ethics. Support journalism like this by making a tax-deductible donation. FāVS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
