By FāVS News Staff
New federal tax credit program spurs debate in Washington over private school funding
A new federal tax credit scholarship program included in President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” is stirring debate in Washington state. The program allows individuals to donate up to $1,700 to scholarship-granting nonprofits and receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax break. These nonprofits would then provide scholarships to students attending private, religious or public school programs.
Gov. Bob Ferguson expressed skepticism, warning the initiative may harm public schools. State Superintendent Chris Reykdal opposes the program outright, citing concerns over legality and increased segregation. Critics argue the program could mostly benefit wealthier families and divert resources from public schools, while supporters see it as potential new funding for both private and public initiatives.
The Legislature, not the governor, may ultimately decide whether Washington opts in. With strong union resistance and uncertainty among private schools, the state’s decision could have major implications for education funding and school choice. More information about this story can be found in The Seattle Times Aug. 19 article online.
Idaho pastor sparks controversy by arguing married women relinquish voting rights
Pastor Toby Sumpter of King’s Cross Church in Moscow, Idaho — a church planted by controversial pastor Doug Wilson — claimed during a podcast that married women give up their right to vote, choosing instead to be represented by their husbands. Citing the U.S. constitutional structure and biblical examples like Lydia in Acts 16, Sumpter said voting should be by household, not individual. An Aug. 19 Christian Post article reported that he argued America functioned without women’s suffrage for 150 years and upheld a “high view” of women before the 19th Amendment.
His comments follow Wilson’s own support for repealing women’s voting rights. Critics view these ideas as regressive and tied to Christian nationalism. Sumpter added that single, widowed or divorced women could still vote as heads of households. His remarks have ignited backlash, highlighting divisions over gender roles, faith and civic participation in modern evangelical circles. In a recent interview on CNN, Wilson said “women are the kind of people that people come out of” in relation to his view on women’s roles within a patriarchal society, which are within his vision for a Christian nation.
Interfaith community event welcomes all for worship, baptisms and prayer in downtown Spokane
Worship in the Park: In Spokane as it is in Heaven is a citywide gathering on Aug. 23, from 3-5 p.m. at the Clock Tower in Riverfront Park. Everyone is welcome regardless of background or church experience — to unite in worship, prayer and community. The aim of the event is to see revival, healing and restoration across Spokane by lifting the name of Jesus in the heart of the city. Attendees can expect live worship, a gospel message, prayer for healing and peace, baptisms and space for community connection. It is suggested attendees bring a chair or blanket, invite friends and family and help create an atmosphere of hope and transformation. If anyone wants to be baptized ahead of time, message Revival Culture ahead of time or sign up at the event.
Local churches and ministries invited to connect with Whitworth students at campus outreach fair
The Whitworth Ministry Fair on Sept. 5 invites local churches and ministries to connect with students — especially first-years and transfers — by sharing opportunities to worship, volunteer and get involved in faith communities. The goal is to help students find ministries that align with their interests, needs and talents, whether through service, fellowship groups or worship. One or two representatives from each ministry are welcome to attend and share their mission and vision. They are also invited to a pre-fair blessing at 9:30 a.m., with coffee and pastries provided. This will be a time for Whitworth University to share more about what they do and to pray for each other and the students before the fair officially begins. For questions or to register, contact Allison Maus at amaus@whitworth.edu.
Two-day event at All Nations Center combines worship, Native cultural traditions and community fellowship
This year’s Seventh-day Adventist annual Indigenous spiritual gathering at All Nations Center in Wapato, Washington, on the Yakama Indian Reservation, will be Sept. 5-6. Pastor Scott Deal will give the message and a Native woman will give a powerful testimony of what the Good Lord has done for her. A beautiful Sioux teepee will be set up for display, and Deal will perform a short Native flute concert. Special time is set aside for children, Native and all, to learn and share a Native ministries experience. A traditional meal will be served along with a potluck lunch. For more information, call 509-877-0960 or email office@allnationscenter.org.
Spectrum Center hosts outdoor gathering with games, vendors and entertainment for LGBTQ+ families
OUT in the Park, a Queer Family Fun Day, will take place on Sept. 13, from 12-4 p.m. at Mission Park, 1208 E. Mission Ave. Hosted by Spectrum Center and INBA, the event provides family fun with vendors, food trucks, kids activities kickball and more. Kickball games will be scrimmage style and organized by All Out Sports. If groups are interested in being a vendor for that day, there is no cost to register and they can sign up online.
Some summaries created with help of AI. Staff still carefully edited material for content quality and publication standards.
