Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly is a production of THIRTEEN Productions LLC for WNET. Visit www.pbs.org/religionandethics for additional information. Show #1839 will be fed over PBS at 5:00 p.m. EST on May 29 (check local listings). Due to pledge, be sure to check local listings.

Seminary Graduate Pastorate Prospects – It’s graduation season, and many new graduates are optimistic about embarking on their chosen career. Lucky Severson reports that some seminary-trained men and women who feel called to be ministers can’t find Protestant churches that can afford to hire them. Part of the problem is the lingering effects of recession.  Part of it is the Mainline Decline – fewer church members, therefore less money to pay pastors.  (Originally broadcast May 2014) http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/2014/05/02/april-25-2014-prospects-for-pastors/22811/

Micro-Preemies – Betty Rollin reports on the agonizing decisions being made by doctors, families and chaplains looking after premature and critically ill newborn babies.  Modern medical technology has enabled those caring for these newborns to keep them alive.  But, often, that means surviving with terrible problems. (Originally broadcast April 2014) http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/2014/04/11/april-11-2014-micro-preemies-ethics/22686/

Jordan River Baptism Site – Outside of Israel, one of the most popular destinations for Christian pilgrims is in neighboring Jordan–at the Jordan River Baptism site. It is revered by many as the place where Jesus was baptized by his cousin John the Baptist. Although there are other supposed baptism sites, recently-discovered archeological ruins are giving this spot new prominence.  Kim Lawton reports from there. (Originally broadcast May 2014) http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/2014/05/08/may-9-2014-jordan-river-baptism-site/22997/