NEWS STORY
RNS-Advent-Justice: The original ‘Blue Christmas’: New Advent resources focus on grief, justice before celebration
(RNS) — While many churches have started to hold “Blue Christmas” services to make space for those who are grieving while so many others are celebrating at this time of year, the liturgical season of Advent leading up to Christmas has held that space since the fourth or fifth century. And a number of new Advent resources available this year admit a bleak midwinter spirit, drawing attention to grief and injustice. By Emily McFarlan Miller. 1,287 words. (category: a)
NEWS STORY
RNS-Two-Popes: ‘The Two Popes’ promotes dialogue in a polarized Catholic Church and society
VATICAN CITY (RNS) — Held together by engaging writing and artful acting, the movie “The Two Popes” offers an intimate look at the relationship between Pope Francis and Benedict XVI, delivering a powerful message about dialogue and mercy along the way. “In the end, the film talks about how dialogue is possible, and this is not only for the Church, it’s really for the world,” said Director Fernando Meirelles in an interview with Religion News Service. By Claire Giangravé. 1,147 words (category: i)
NEWS STORY
RNS-MacDonald-Suit: Former Harvest Bible Chapel pastor James MacDonald sues radio host ‘Mancow’
CHICAGO (RNS) — Former Harvest Bible Chapel pastor James MacDonald is suing Chicago radio personality Erich “Mancow” Muller for defamation after Muller used his radio show to — in the host’s words — “bring down the cult of MacDonald.” By Emily McFarlan Miller. 550 words. (category: a)
COMMENTARY
RNS-Burge-Oped: Will young white evangelicals turn their backs on Trump?
(RNS) — On social issues, younger evangelicals are drifting toward the center. But the data is mixed on whether they can stomach voting for anyone but the GOP. By Ryan Burge. 850 words. (category: k)
COMMENTARY
RNS-Burton-Oped: Keeping the longing in Christmas
(RNS) — With Christmas carols and holiday parties, advent may be the last vestige of a liturgical life lived in common. But even those who want to keep the Christ in Christmas forget that this season is as much about the agony of waiting for the new Jerusalem as it is about the childlike anticipation of Christmas morning. By Tara Isabella Burton. 800 words. (category: k)
