CHARLOTTE (RNS) On the night the Democrats became the first major U.S. political party to endorse gay marriage, some convention delegates remembered how it used to be — back in high school, back in the closet, back in the days when, as one said, "you're scared because it's not OK to be who you are." By Rick Hampson.

(RNS) For the second time in less than a year, Gallup reported that a majority of Americans would vote for an atheist for president. Then again, atheists are running behind every other group, including gays and Muslims. By Kimberly Winston.

LONDON (RNS) Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams criticized some Christians for feeling so "embarrassed and ashamed and disgusted" over homosexuality that they send out a message signaling a lack of understanding and patience. By Al Webb.

SAN FRANCISCO (RNS) The way many members of the Mormon Church treat gay and lesbian people people is in many cases not in keeping with what I feel is the doctrine of Jesus Christ. I am a Mormon bishop, and I believe this must change. by Donald Fletcher.

LONDON (RNS) London's mayor has axed an ad campaign spearheaded by two conservative Christian groups because their ads suggest homosexuality is a disease that can be cured through prayer. By Al Webb.