A new presidency. A faltering economy. A contentious health care debate. Swine Flu fears. Religious freedoms. How to improve your health.
These are just a few of the stories that grabbed your attention this year.
While the following list is in no way exhaustive, here are this year's top 10 most important topics to you, our viewers. CBN News reported on each of these in-depth throughout 2009.
Click each title to go into the section for links to the full stories.
TOP 10 EDITOR'S PICK:
1. Christian Rights/Freedoms
Topping the list of most important subjects to our viewers were stories concerning the freedom to exercise and talk about faith, a freedom many Christians fear is under attack.
2. Your Health
CBN News health stories have always been widely popular with you. This year was no exception. The health stories we brought you dominated in popularity throughout the year.
3. The Economy & Money Tips
For many struggling Americans, this year is one we can't wait to bid farewell. Throughout this year, CBN News has offered economic insight expert and advice on your money to help you in these financially challenging times.
4. National Health Care Debate
Health care reform has been at the top of President Obama's agenda, even as many across the nation have expressed doubts over its effectiveness or necessity in a time of economic downturn.
5. President Obama's first year
As a presidential candidate, the junior senator from Illinois was a political rock star. But after nearly a full year in the White House, Obama the President faced sagging opinion polls as he initiated a contentious, drawn-out debate on a major health care overhaul, deliberated on a new strategy for the war in Afghanistan, and confronted more job losses on the home front.
6. Rifqa Bary & Islam's Influence
During the summer, a young Ohio girl fled to Florida from her Muslim parents, claiming she feared for her life because she converted to Christianity. CBN News followed her story, in addition to bringing you other hard-hitting reports on Islam around the world, how it is spreading, its impact, and where the light of the Gospel is breaking through.
7. Gay Rights
Pivotal battles over marriage and the homosexual agenda took shape across the nation, with gay activists claiming the tide has turned in their favor. Check out these key highlights CBN News reported on this year on the advancement of the gay rights agenda, the fight within the Church, various custody battles involving ex-gays, and more.
8. Sarah Palin Goes 'Rogue'
While Sarah Palin may have resigned as Alaska's governor -- she has no less from the national spotlight. Her new book, Going Rogue, continues to top the charts. CBN News spoke with the former vice presidential candidate as she began her tour on a range of topics, most importantly, her faith.
9. Climate Change
Many fear global warming is the greatest threat to mankind. But recent scandal and the inability of world leaders to come to significant agreements have left many Americans cooling to the idea altogether.
10. H1N1 Swine Flu Scare
CBN News followed the world-wide outbreak of H1N1, also known as the "swine flu." We reported extensively on what health experts said you should do to protect yourself and your family from infection.
Other Most Popular Stories:
- Oral Roberts Dies at 91
Thousands attended the public memorial service for well-known evangelist and university founder Oral Roberts, who died Dec. 15, at age 91. During his life, he prayed for thousands at weekly tent revival meetings, saw God heal many of those for whom he prayed, preached on the radio, and was considered one of the pioneers of Christian television ministry and of modern Christian education with the founding of a university. Roberts left a rich legacy of faith behind, to his family, students and the millions who were touched by his ministry.
Oral Roberts Memorial 'Something Good'; Evangelist Oral Roberts Dies at 91; Oral Roberts: A Legacy of Faith
- Dr. James Dobson Steps Down
Early in 2009, Focus on the Family's James Dobson resigned as board chairman of the ministry he founded in 1977, all part of an unfolding plan of succession. Later in the year, the ministry announced the evangelical leader would be leaving his highly popular radio broadcast by end of February 2010. With Dobson stepping back from leading the ministry he founded, many are wondering who's next to handle the reigns of the conservative movement.
Dobson to Leave Focus on the Family Radio; Dobson Resigns As Focus on Family Chair; With Dobson Done, Who's Next to Lead?
- Michael Jackson's death
The unexpected death of the "King of Pop" Michael Jackson saddened millions across the world on June 25. While to many his life will remain shrouded in controversy, friends, family, and fans continue to pay tribute to Jackson's legacy and the music he left behind.
'King of Pop' Michael Jackson Dies at Age 50; World Bids Final Goodbye to Pop Icon Jackson; Jackson's 'Final Act' Watched Around the World Thousands Remember Jackson at Apollo Theatre; Jackson Funeral: A 'Christ-Centered, Final Act'
Other Popular 2009 Stories: