Monthly Archives: November 2013
Move over Hanukkah bush, here comes the Menorah Tree
By Lauren Markoe — November 21, 2013
(RNS) Michael Patchen didn't want a Christmas tree in his Jewish home, but his wife did. So he invented the Menorah Tree, an unusual holiday item that he is now mass-producing for other families confronted by a Christmas tree dilemma.
New Survey Examines Public’s Views on End-of-Life Medical Treatments
By Religion News LLC — November 21, 2013
Washington, D.C. Nov. 21, 2013 — At a time of national debate over health care costs and insurance, a new Pew Research Center survey on end-of-life decisions finds most Americans say there are some circumstances in which doctors and nurses should allow a patient to die. At the same time, however, a growing minority says […]
Would you never say die?
By Cathy Lynn Grossman — November 21, 2013
Is your life your own or God's? It matters to many when they make end of life decisions. What about you?
Black, Hispanic end-of-life views rooted in faith, family — and mistrust
By Cathy Lynn Grossman — November 21, 2013
WASHINGTON (RNS) Race, religion and a sense of the role of the family all play into end-of-life decisions for African-Americans, “and you cannot disentangle them,” said Karen Bullock, a professor and head of the department of social work at North Carolina State University.
What makes a good old age? Being pain-free doesn’t top the list
By Cathy Lynn Grossman — November 21, 2013
WASHINGTON (RNS) Communication, physical independence and enjoyment in daily life are more important to a good quality of life than freedom from severe pain, according to a new survey.
Americans divided on facing death: Fight it, choose it or let it come
By Cathy Lynn Grossman — November 21, 2013
WASHINGTON (RNS) Most Americans hold strong views on the care they want -- or don't want -- if they are faced with an incurable disease. A new survey from Pew Research finds that the number of those who would fight death to the bitter end is growing.
Video: Kennedy’s funeral procession to Arlington
By Sally Morrow — November 21, 2013
On Nov. 25, 1963, President John F. Kennedy's body is carried to Arlington National Cemetery. Friday, Nov. 22, will mark the 50th anniversary of this historic assassination.
Monty Python reunion promises ‘tiny piece of ancient sex.’ What about blasphemy?
By Brian Pellot — November 21, 2013
The British comedy troupe, famous for its irreverent take on religion, will reunite for a one-off show in London next year. Here’s a look back at Python sketches some faithful folks found offensive.
Religious conflict rips through Central African Republic
By Fredrick Nzwili — November 21, 2013
(RNS) A cycle of violence in the Central African Republic is quickly degenerating into a religious conflict between Christians and Muslims.
Quote of the Day: Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Ill.
By Ron Ribiat — November 21, 2013
“I did not seek to enter any controversy and I don’t relish being part of one.” — Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Ill., speaking before conducting a “minor exorcism” after state lawmakers approved same-sex marriage.
Congress pushes for release of American pastor imprisoned in Iran
By Katherine Burgess — November 21, 2013
WASHINGTON (RNS) The Iranian government sentenced Abedini to eight years in prison after convicting him of “undermining” the government by spreading his religious beliefs.
The New York Times Cites PRRI in Exploration of Immigration
By MacKenzie Babb — November 21, 2013
In the face of inaction by the House, Julia Preston's latest for The New York Times features PRRI data in exploring debates among immigrants currently living in the United States illegally over whether to hold out for a citizenship-only legislative approach or to settle for more protections that stop short of citizenship.
Pray like JFK * Hug like Francis * Chanukkah Honey: Thursday’s Religion News Roundup
By Kevin Eckstrom — November 21, 2013
(RNS) We're toying around with the Roundup format -- we wanna keep it interesting for y'all -- so let us know what you think.
C.S. Lewis, more popular 50 years after his death than he was in life
By Sarah Pulliam Bailey — November 21, 2013
(RNS) “Name another author whose books are being sold more now than they were when they were alive,” said HarperOne's Mickey Maudlin. “His vision for the Christian life is seemingly simple while being very complex."
Over objections, Catholic bishop holds anti-gay exorcism
By Michael J. O'Loughlin — November 20, 2013
The Catholic bishop of Springfield, Illinois, goes ahead with exorcism in response to that's state embrace of same-sex marriage.
