"Tons more on Christmas, the lies of Da Vinci, State Department's religious freedom report, Christian video games, and hundreds of stories from online sources around the world"

"Film critics continue to pile praise on The Return of the King, while readers have some gripes. Critics also examine Mona Lisa Smile, House of Sand and Fog, Girl with a Pearl Earring, The Statement. Plus: More reviews of In America, The Last Samurai, Big"

"The origins of new years' resolutions, and one famous list"

"Christian film critics celebrate The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, and some sit down to talk with its stars. Reviews are also in for Big Fish, Something's Gotta Give, and Stuck on You. Plus, Medved raves about In America"

"Christian critics highlight this year's unseen treasures. Plus, reviews of Peter Pan, Cold Mountain, Paycheck, Cheaper by the Dozen, and more reviews of The Return of the King."

"Court upholds Ohio's partial-birth abortion ban, library allows paintings of Jesus, and stories from online sources around the world"

"More Christmas stories, China prepares for Christmas and demolishes churches, as well as Christians in Iraq, Anglicans in New Westminster, The Blind Boys of Alabama and articles from online sources around the world"

"The Worst Book of the Year, more good reading, digital books, and a little Christmas music"

"Dean to promote his religion, Stott suffers mild stroke, and the Grand Canyon controversy returns"

"What to buy with those gift cards, and some of the books in my to-read stacks"

Bulldozers raze prayer centers as part of government re-planning exercise.

8 signs of leadership potential.

A congregational tool.

8 signs of leadership potential

How much should the family know about the ugly stuff at church?

Know God intimately and lead others to do the same.

Understand your leadership style, and the strengths and weaknesses it brings to the team.

And other gleanings from the MacDonald Files.