Read Time: 5 min 55 sec | Reading Level: 7th Grade

The government just beamed down its UFO files. 

For decades, Uncle Sam has kept reports about mysterious flying objects locked up. That all changed last Friday. 

The Pentagon released 160+ previously secret photos, videos, transcripts, military memos, and eyewitness accounts. Some of the files date back to the 1940s, and all are sightings the government could not explain. Now, they’re available to anyone online on a retro-looking government website—no security badge or tin foil hat required (check it out). 

The sightings are called UAPs, which means unidentified anomalous phenomena (anomalous means bizarre or abnormal). The government ditched the name “UFO” in 2021 because it made everyone think of aliens… and it’s hard to have a serious meeting about national security when half the room is picturing little green men on saucers.

Some UAPs include:

The files landed after President Trump ordered the Pentagon to release them earlier this year. Many of the files turned out to be explainable (like the bouncy-ball-shaped object), and the Pentagon hasn’t changed its mind: they’ve found no evidence that aliens exist. But officials are encouraging earthlings to read the files and decide for themselves what’s out there. 

Supporters have praised President Trump for being transparent. Critics are worried that people who aren’t familiar with military tech might misinterpret the material. 

The Pentagon said more files are on their way down.

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PRAY WITH US
“Constellations rise and descend the staircase of the night at your command, O Lord. Galaxies spin like dancers. Space and time bend and bow to the gravity of your great will. In such holy wonders, baptize our imaginations, that we might ever be a people shaped by awe at your eternal power, and a people moved to worship by revelations of your divine nature… Awaken our adoration in this place where we are so very small—and yet so greatly loved. Amen.”
Every Moment Holy, Volume I, pages 80-82

Ask your kids what they have already heard about this story.
The potential existence of extraterrestrial life introduces plenty of potent questions to ponder and many mysteries to mull (Psalm 8:3-4). Encouraging a young believer to follow their curiosities and ask questions rather than fear mystery helps create a resilient faith—reinforcing that faith is not opposed to scrutiny (1 Peter 3:15). 

Before rushing in to craft the “right” answer about aliens and the gospel, ask what they’ve heard about these files. Do they think aliens exist? What would it mean if they did? What would it mean if they didn’t?

What response to this story do I want to model for my children?
Convicted curiosity. 

If much of parenting is caught, not taught, your kids might respond more to seeing a faith that sits with mystery than one that’s always buttoned up. 

Show them that mature faith isn’t always knowing the right answer, but being so secure in Jesus that mind-bending questions become an opportunity to worship rather than a threat to belief. No matter what those files contain, it doesn’t change what we know: God created this world, loves it, and is committed to making it new. “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the expanse proclaims the work of his hands” (Psalm 19:1 CSB).

Gen Z Word of the Week: TPO’s mascot, Shadrach, is big sad he doesn’t get more shout-outs in these emails.

Family Fun: Beam your family back to the ‘80s with this free online Galaga game.

Whipped Cream on Top: Enjoy this quick... snack break.

What I Never Leave the House Without
My Homegrown Beauty lip butters*

Utah living essentials: water bottle, hiking boots, and loootttsss of chapstick. Not to be dramatic, but my chapstick is like a second oxygen source… That’s why I love Homegrown Beauty’s lip butters. 

They’re made without nasty toxins or chemicals (the kind I already get enough of from the air). Plus, they smell incredible. I have one for my purse, church bag, and bedside table, so my lips are never parched. 

Even better: every Homegrown Beauty purchase helps provide care kits to foster kids. It’s a treat-yourself moment you can feel good about, so consider this your sign! Use promo code GODECAF for 30% off!

Katherine Anne Thierfelder | Writer

What My Fam’s Learning Together
Piano, thanks to flowkey*

I took piano lessons for a decade growing up, but it’s been… a decade since I sat down consistently to brush up on those skills. Now that my kids want to learn, I’m excited to jump back in with them, and flowkey makes it super easy!

Their step-by-step lessons, real-time feedback, and huge library of familiar songs make it easy for beginners (and rusty not-so-beginners) to learn side by side. 

Plus, their Family Plan includes five licenses, so we can all learn at our own pace.

As a Decaf reader, get 60% off individual and family plans using code POUROVER60. Check it out!

Xan Sibley | Writer

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