Monthly Archives: September 2013
Gay Mormon, gay Catholic, gay activist: ‘Book of Mormon’ star Rory O’Malley on faith, rights, and religious freedom
By Brian Pellot — September 24, 2013
“The Book of Mormon” star discusses how members of the LDS Church reacted to his on-stage portrayal of a gay Mormon character and shares his thoughts on bridging the divide between gay rights and religious freedom in a post-DOMA world.
Catholic chaplains given marching orders barring service to gay couples
By David Gibson — September 24, 2013
(RNS) Catholic military chaplains cannot be forced to witness or bless a same-sex marriage, nor are they allowed to take part in any marriage counseling retreats that are open to gay couples under new rules issued by the Archdiocese for the Military Services. Participation in funerals of gay service members is also off-limits. But Catholic commanders may be able to facilitate same-sex benefits if they publicly register their objections.
After years of decline, Catholics see rise in number of future priests
By Cathy Lynn Grossman — September 24, 2013
(RNS) Young men today “want to give their life for something that counts. These men are tired of living in a culture of relativism. They want to say there must be something true, beautiful and good," says the Rev. Mark Latcovich, president of St. Mary Seminary outside Cleveland.
Quote of the Day: Truck driver Harold Scott
By Ron Ribiat — September 24, 2013
“Anything that’s advancing the kingdom of Christ is not crazy at all.” — Wisconsin truck driver Harold Scott, who has spent $750,000 for more than two dozen Christian billboards along major highways. He was quoted by the Post-Crescent in Appleton, Wis.
United Methodist high court to consider challenges to gay teachings
By Katherine Burgess — September 24, 2013
(RNS) The Judicial Council hearings come as at least four United Methodist ministers -- including the former dean of Yale Divinity School -- are facing trial for officiating at same-sex weddings, and more than 1,500 clergy have signed a statement offering to marry gay couples.
Benedict XVI emerges to defend his record on sexual abuse
By Eric J. Lyman — September 24, 2013
ROME (RNS) Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI disputed the claim that abuse is pervasive in the Catholic Church, noting that "according to research by sociologists, the percentage of priests guilty of these crimes is no higher than those present in other similar professional fields."
Syrian Christians may get pulled into civil war
By Stephen Starr — September 24, 2013
(RNS) Christians have lived here for centuries. They have largely supported Assad's regime but are increasingly pawns in the propaganda war between the rebels and the regime.
Pope Francis names assisting bishop for troubled Newark, N.J., archdiocese
By Mark Mueller — September 24, 2013
NEWARK, N.J. (RNS) Embattled Archbishop John Myers rejected a claim that the appointment of a designated successor was a rebuke of his administration. "Absolutely not. It was my own request."
Pakistan’s blasphemy laws to require death sentence for false accusers
By Richard S. Ehrlich — September 24, 2013
(RNS) The Council on Islamic Ideology's demand to amend the blasphemy laws is being presented as a way to stop people from making false allegations or settling personal scores.
‘Our Lady of Perpetual Exhaustion’ exhibit probes the spirituality of everyday chaos
By Katherine Burgess — September 24, 2013
WASHINGTON (RNS) The exhibit, creator Cynthia Farrell Johnson said, will hopefully “help people see the absurdity of our existence when we try to pile too many things in one day.”
The Mother of Christ comes alive on the big screen
By Religion News LLC — September 24, 2013
SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 24, 2013 – Mary, the Mother of Jesus Christ is revered throughout the world. However, her amazing life has not been featured on the big screen — until now. Ignatius Press will release MARY OF NAZARETH, a major motion picture on the life of Our Blessed Mother, for sponsored theatrical screenings across […]
Teaching Congolese refugees self-sufficiency gains nun U.N. recognition
By Fredrick Nzwili — September 24, 2013
(RNS) Congolese Sister Angelique Namaika was herself displaced by the violence in 2009. She had been living in Dungu in the province of Orientale but was forced to flee the Lord's Resistance Army’s persistent attacks.
COMMENTARY: Stepping in when politicians step aside
By Tom Ehrich — September 24, 2013
POLAND, Ohio (RNS) Destructive elements in Congress might yet succeed in shutting down the government. But they won't cripple an emerging fervor among the faithful to bind up the nation's wounds.
The Bible and Democracy in America: Is There Still a Role for the Bible?
By Religion News LLC — September 24, 2013
Wheaton, Ill., Sept. 24, 2013—The best-selling book of all time, the Bible, has always had some level of influence on American culture. But to what extent is it still influencing the country? On October 25 and 26, leading religion experts will examine the role of the Bible in American life in present day and throughout […]
Brotherhood Banned * Benedict Back * Borscht Belt : Tuesday’s Religion News Roundup
By Lauren Markoe — September 24, 2013
The Muslim Brotherhood is banned by an Egyptian court. Emeritus Pope Benedict defends himself in a letter to the editor. And capturing the ruins of the Borscht Belt's great hotels.
