On Oct. 22, 2025, in New York and around the world via livestream, RNS convened “God, Government and the Algorithm,” bringing our nonprofit newsroom’s mission to the stage. The day confronted urgent questions of authority and trust, exploring how technology and faith are reshaping American public life.
That work — independent reporting that examines how belief, power and culture intersect — continues every day in our newsroom and moves forward with your support.
Explore session videos, images and highlights that capture the spirit of the day below.
At a moment when technology impacts not only economies and elections but also belief itself, RNS convened an all-day symposium at Trinity Church NYC to ask: What does faith mean in a digital age — and who holds the power to shape it?
Emceed by Niala Boodhoo and Wajahat Ali, the event drew scholars, clergy, journalists and activists from across the country, exploring the intersection of religion, politics and technology in 2025. Participants wrestled with themes that have long animated spiritual life. They explored what it means to be human and reckoned with technological changes that have transformed the way we interact with one another...
Faith in America endures, but it is being tested — by technology, division and the erosion of trust. That was the consensus running through RNS's all-day symposium at Trinity Church NYC.
Rather than offering simple answers, the day explored tensions that define religion in 2025: faith as both connective tissue and fault line, as comfort and confrontation. Here are a few of the central truths that emerged from the program...
“First rate panelists with thoughtful, concise interviewers. I appreciated the wide range of topics and voices.”
—Laura
“I came to this event expecting to nerd out over the intersection of faith and technology, but what I didn't expect was it to be both nurturing and healing.”
—Heather
“The themes of the discussions are timely and relevant. I thought everyone was insightful, sincere, and left me thinking.”
—Online guest
