As 2025 draws to a close, we’re looking back at the Presbyterian Outlook stories that resonated most with readers this year — the reporting you shared, debated and returned to again and again. From denominational restructuring and mission-worker cuts to public witness, political shifts and emerging faith trends, these were the moments that shaped our Presbyterian conversations. Here’s what captured your attention in 2025.
1. Presbyterian Outlook banned by Instagram: What happened and where to find us now
Presbyterian Outlook’s Instagram was suspended by Meta without explanation. Learn what happened and where to find us now. — Teri McDowell Ott
This article sits at the intersection of news and opinion. It is news in that it reports a significant update and required Outlook staff to investigate Meta’s actions — work that is explained in the story. It is also opinion because it reflects the Outlook’s response to that information and the decisions we made as a result.
2. PC(USA) announces major cuts to mission co-workers amid restructuring
The PC(USA)’s plans to cut mission co-workers by 50%, spark concerns about global outreach, transparency, and the future of the church’s mission efforts. — Eric Ledermann
3. Election 2024: Voters of faith overwhelmingly picked Trump
Mainline Protestant, including PC(USA), members remain politically conservative. — Gregg Brekke
4. PC(USA) faces backlash over mission co-worker layoffs
Critics of the mission co-worker layoffs cite a lack of transparency, loss of global partnerships and concerns over future engagement. —Eric Ledermann
5. The future of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.): Decline, renewal and shifting trends
Reporter Gregg Brekke digs into the statistical trends of the PC(USA) so you don’t have to. Here’s what you need to know.
6. Chicago pastors confront escalating violence at ICE detention facility
Chicago Presbyterian pastors report pepper spray, rubber bullets and escalating force at ICE’s Broadview facility. Faith leaders demand accountability. — Harriet Riley
7. Holy dissent: Presbyterians speak out about the Trump administration’s policies
Faith-based opposition to government actions and legislation mounts. — Gregg Brekke
8. Gen Z’s complicated return to faith — and what Presbyterians are seeing
Recent research points to younger adults’ increased interest in faith as they seek community and meaning. — Gregg Brekke
9. D.C. churches respond to federal show of force
D.C. churches unite against heightened federal policing, defending vulnerable neighbors and calling for justice over fear-based governance. — Harriet Riley
10. Aligning money with mission: The future of church space
As church buildings empty, congregations are finding new ways to align mission with property, transforming sacred space into community-serving hubs. — John Bolt
Bonus: Stated Clerk Jihyun Oh on leadership, cuts, and accountability
Outlook Editor/Publisher Teri McDowell Ott sat down with Stated Clerk Jihyun Oh to discuss public statements, program cuts, and leadership decisions.
