David Gibson

David Gibson is a national reporter for RNS and an award-winning religion journalist, author and filmmaker. He has written several books on Catholic topics. His latest book is on biblical artifacts: "Finding Jesus: Faith. Fact. Forgery," which was also the basis of a popular CNN series.

All Stories by David Gibson

Catholic bishops finally tackle the sex abuse cover-up. Now comes the hard part.

By David Gibson — June 13, 2019

BALTIMORE (RNS) — The reforms the Catholic bishops passed this week to deal with the sexual abuse crisis were easy compared with changing the culture of clerical privilege that is at the heart of the abuse crisis.

Cardinal Kasper is far from controversies for a change, and happily so

By David Gibson — January 3, 2019

ROME (RNS) — One of the most influential Catholic theologians, Cardinal Walter Kasper has in recent years been swept up in Pope Francis’ effort to make the Catholic Church more compassionate and inclusive.

At Vatican summit, millennial Catholics have no vote but do have a voice

By David Gibson — October 26, 2018

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — To change the narrative of scandal, the millennials say, the bishops must keep the conversation going, not just with young Catholics but with those alienated from religion as well.

Politics, culture or theology? Why evangelicals back Trump on global warming

By David Gibson — June 9, 2017

(RNS) They may be taking the Bible literally, which could explain their climate change skepticism. Some experts say it’s more complicated than that.

The Slingshot: Britain and Islam; Jesus and fashion; Yoga and ethics

By David Gibson — June 8, 2017

(RNS) Britons go to the polls after attacks that sparked fear and inspired charity. A Christian fashion blogger on Jesus and style, oil and water. Do yoga teachers need a code of ethics? And the United Methodist Church has a transgender deacon.

The Slingshot: Mormon safety; Frescoes revealed; Want to write for RNS?

By David Gibson — June 6, 2017

(RNS) LDS leaders want to know the perils their 70,000 missionaries face to better protect them. Lasers reveal “lost” catacomb wonders. The Rev. William J. Barber II on Comedy Central! And RNS is hiring!

Doing good and doing well: Faith-based investing converts the skeptics

By David Gibson — May 31, 2017

NEW YORK (RNS) Private investment firms see new opportunities as socially responsible investing becomes popular, and profitable. So what's left for religious advocates to do?

The Slingshot: ‘Scarlet Letter’ sequel; Vatican stargazers; Luther’s greatest hits

By David Gibson — May 25, 2017

(RNS) Christian school defends decision to deny pregnant teen graduation honor. The pope’s astronomers look up for divine inspiration. Martin Luther: Father of protest songs? Manchester attacker’s familiar path. Mormons old, and young.

President Trump meets Pope Francis: From trading barbs to seeking common ground

By David Gibson — May 22, 2017

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) Church officials say the pontiff wants to focus on the future and not on past tensions conveyed in tweets and sound bites.

From ‘Mean Streets’ to Marian miracles: Harvey Keitel to star in Fatima movie

By David Gibson — May 19, 2017

(RNS) The announcement follows a papal trip to the Portuguese shrine and continues a big month for the story of the Marian apparitions that occurred 100 years ago.

The Slingshot: GOP and immigration; Trump’s pilgrimage; Praying with presidents

By David Gibson — May 18, 2017

(RNS) New Jersey’s cardinal blasts Congress and the White House for ignoring immigration reform. Can Trump accomplish anything positive with his speech on Islam in Saudi Arabia next week? Presidential spiritual advisers should be careful what they pray for, and who they pray with.

New Jersey cardinal blasts GOP for ignoring immigration reform

By David Gibson — May 17, 2017

NEW YORK (RNS) Cardinal Joseph Tobin, one of the U.S. hierarchy’s most visible champions for the marginalized, blasted Republicans for 'inflicting cruelty on innocent people.'

The Slingshot: Graham’s genocide; Graham’s heir; Fatima’s secrets

By David Gibson — May 11, 2017

(RNS) Franklin Graham says Christians face a genocide today. Will there be another Billy Graham? Pope Francis is going to Fatima, but what about that Third Secret? ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is returning. Catholics are going green, Muslims are stepping up, and fidget spinners are kosher!

The ’Splainer: Who is Our Lady of Fatima and what is the ‘Third Secret’?

By David Gibson — May 10, 2017

(RNS) Pope Francis will be the fourth pontiff to visit the famous Marian shrine in Portugal, and one of millions who travel there each year. What is the attraction?

The Maccabeats sing to promote ‘halachic prenups’ for Orthodox Jewish couples

By David Gibson — May 5, 2017

NEW YORK (RNS) The endearing group of a cappella Orthodox Jewish singers is out with a 30-second spot that takes aim at the phenomenon of "agunot," or "chained women" whose husbands will not grant them a divorce.