

Since 1900, the Christian Century has published reporting, commentary, poetry, and essays on the role of faith in a pluralistic society.
© 2023 The Christian Century.
The first question about the war in Afghanistan is why we were even there
There was never a good way to leave—or stay.
The United States has been engaged for decades in a seemingly endless series of wars and military operations.
In two books on Afghanistan, Anand Gopal and Carlotta Gall each point to the absurdity of America's longest war.
Christians would be outraged if they learned of
Muslims burning the Bible. Muslims have an even greater reverence for
their holy book.
In 2008, President Obama accused his
predecessor of taking his eye off the ball—the fight in
Afghanistan. But the case for a military presence in Afghanistan was already waning.
Those who have suffered through war are in special need of God's peace and justice, of reconciliation and restoration. After the smoke clears, Christians must work to foster and promote a just peace.