Christmas
Advent, race and the intimacy of Incarnation
By Robert P. Jones — December 3, 2021
(RNS) — If we take the Incarnation seriously, we have a responsibility to build a theology where all of humanity is assumed in the body of Jesus.
‘The Giving Manger’ launches new Christmas tradition — and 5 million acts of kindness
By Emily McFarlan Miller — December 3, 2021
(RNS) — This Christmas, sisters Allison Hottinger and Lisa Kalberer are celebrating 5 million acts of kindness inspired by what they call 'The Giving Manger.'
Patriarch of Jerusalem’s edict puts unity on Holy Land’s Christmas in doubt
By Daoud Kuttab — December 2, 2021
(RNS) — Western and Eastern Christians in Jordan and Israel have long agreed to celebrate Christmas according to the Gregorian calendar, on Dec. 25, and Easter according to the older Julian calendar.
‘To those who celebrate.’ What’s up with that?
By Jeffrey Salkin — December 1, 2021
(RNS) — It is a rather timid religious expression. Why do we insist on saying it?
Happy New Year, it’s Advent
By Thomas Reese — November 26, 2021
(RNS) — The feast of Jesus' birth began by co-opting a pagan holiday. Today, it has been co-opted by pagan capitalism.
What we profess on Sunday ought to apply to Black Friday
By Rosa Lee Harden — November 23, 2021
(RNS) — Let's reflect on not just why we give gifts but how we purchase them.
‘Healing will come.’ Catholic community of Waukesha gathers in prayer after parade crash.
By Alejandra Molina — November 23, 2021
(RNS) — 'In the midst of the crisis, there were angels and saints that stepped forward — absolutely incredible and an absolute marvel to see,' said the Rev. Matthew Widder.
Christmas in Bethlehem: Gilded treasures, but few tourists
By Ilan Ben Zion — November 19, 2021
BETHLEHEM, West Bank (AP) — Ahead of Christmas, a towering wooden screen — once blackened with soot from millions of worshippers’ candles — is being restored to its gilded glory in the Church of the Nativity, built at the site where many believe Jesus was born. But few visitors are expected to see it during […]
Theater release for ‘The Chosen’ Christmas special breaks records
By Kathryn Post — November 16, 2021
(RNS) — ‘The Chosen,’ a series on the life of Jesus Christ available via a free app, has become a global phenomenon since its release in 2019, with more than 300 million views in over 190 countries.
RNS holiday gift guide 2021: Treat yourself to cozy socks or a self-care box
By Emily McFarlan Miller — November 8, 2021
(RNS) — Our holiday gift guide is full of ideas for all the people of faith — or no faith — on your list.
American Girl releases doll outfits for Eid, Diwali, Hanukkah celebrations
By Emily McFarlan Miller — October 5, 2021
(RNS) — Happy Christmahanukwanzadan!
Armenian Christian community caught between Israelis and Palestinians
By Daoud Kuttab — December 31, 2020
(RNS) — The controversy has taken on added significance because of a recent rise in anti-Christian sentiment among Palestinians.
Pope on Christmas: Vaccines for all; needy, vulnerable first
By Frances D'Emilio — December 25, 2020
(AP) — With the world suffering an ecological and economic crises on top of the pandemic, Francis said, it is all the more important for us to acknowledge one another as brothers and sisters."
Why Christianity remains an in-person religion, even in a pandemic
By Bob Smietana — December 24, 2020
(RNS) — The COVID-19 pandemic has been a reminder for many Christians that their worship is an in-person experience at its core.
5 nurses share their pandemic holiday plans — and their hopes people take the virus seriously
By Lyra Walsh Fuchs — December 24, 2020
(RNS) — ‘It pains me because I think when this all dies down and we get back to Mass, there will be a lot of empty pews,’ said one nurse, who has worked at a hard-hit nursing home throughout the pandemic.
