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Moshe Lifshitz, a haredi (ultra-Orthodox) Israeli, wears tefillin while praying in the Israeli army. Lifshitz broke with his community’s tradition when he chose to enlist in the Israeli army rather than apply for an exemption to study Torah full time. Photo courtesy of Moshe Lifshitz
Need to know: Thursday, January 18, 2018
More Israeli ultra-Orthodox Jews buck tradition and head for the army, higher ed
They join despite often intense pressure from other haredim to study sacred texts full time and avoid the military.
Flake praises truth, quotes LDS hymn in speech criticizing Trump
After blasting the president’s attacks on the media, the Arizona GOP senator quoted from ‘Oh Say, What Is Truth.’
Former President Carter writing book about religious faith
The book, entitled ”Faith: A Journey for All,” will grapple with Carter’s desire to explore faith's "far-reaching effect."
Trump to overhaul HHS office, shield health workers with moral objections
The changes would protect health workers who don't want to perform abortions or treat transgender patients seeking to transition.
Why some faith leaders see net neutrality as a religious issue
Faith leaders are celebrating the ongoing pushback against the Federal Communications Commission's decision to repeal net neutrality policies governing the internet.
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Latest news from RNS
Pope meets with abuse survivors, weeps with them in Chile
Francis apologized for the “irreparable damage” suffered by the victims as his visit was met with church burnings and protests.
Renowned Buddhist scholar faces jail for ‘criticizing’ Thai monarchy
Sulak Sivaraksa, an internationally known Buddhist social activist and scholar, questioned the outcome of a battle fought from the backs of elephants 400 years ago.
Stressed-out Anglican priests turn to trade unions for support
Faced with demanding congregations, piles of paperwork and disciplinary procedures they often feel are unfair, Church of England priests are turning to British trade unions for support.
More views from RNS
‘Pro-life’ must encompass more than opposition to abortion
(RNS) — Many Americans recognize the complexity of abortion should not be reduced to talking points or bumper stickers.
If I had the Mormon prophet’s ear
A creator of "Despicable Me" and "The Secret Life of Pets" has three wishes for Mormonism in its new era -- and no, it's not that the Minions be put in charge. Today, a guest post from screenwriter Cinco Paul.
Patriarchy is alive and well in the LDS Church
(RNS) — The new leadership 'conveyed the image of their increasingly diverse and far-flung communion about as well as a convention of retired Midwestern pharmacists, c. 1955.'
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