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
Popular Christian author Eric Metaxas stands by Donald Trump
By David Gibson — October 12, 2016
(RNS) The evangelical media personality had been under pressure since he downplayed Trump’s ugly comments on women. On Wednesday he warned 'God will not hold us guiltless' if Hillary Clinton is elected.
A theologian’s lessons for post-election healing
By David Gibson — October 12, 2016
(RNS) Classical ethics, but also America's religious traditions, can help accelerate the healing process after one of the most divisive campaigns in our nation’s history.
Pope Francis’ cardinal choices bring surprises, especially for the US church
By David Gibson — October 10, 2016
(RNS) In giving red hats to U.S. churchmen for the first time, the pontiff passed over prelates favored by culture warriors of the right and chose more pastoral bishops. That's a big change.
Pope Francis names 17 new cardinals, including 3 Americans
By David Gibson — October 9, 2016
VATICAN CITY (Reuters) Thirteen are under 80 years old and eligible to enter a conclave to choose his successor -- or become the next pope.
Will lewd Trump tape about groping be tipping point with conservative Christians?
By David Gibson — October 8, 2016
NEW YORK (RNS) The GOP nominee's performance in Sunday night's debate may have shifted the political focus off his comments. But his candidacy may turn on what his faith-based supporters think.
Martin Luther as history’s first tweeter? An ongoing legacy, 500 years later
By David Gibson — October 7, 2016
NEW YORK (RNS) A new exhibit features a rare copy of Luther's 95 Theses. But the lessons this history reveals are as contemporary as your Facebook feed.
The Slingshot: Faith in politics. Papal point man. Mormon youth
By David Gibson — October 6, 2016
(RNS) The Veeps talk faith, and theologian Miroslav Volf talks candidates. New United Methodist group takes tough line on gay clergy. The archbishop sent into Rome’s streets. Mormon youth not into church? The ‘lived religion’ of street basketball.
Pope, Anglican leader vow joint action on poverty and environment
By David Gibson — October 5, 2016
ROME (Reuters) The pledge at a vespers prayer service came despite challenges to greater unity posed by differences over women priests and gay marriage.
Kelly Ayotte, free condoms — and a budding Catholic question?
By David Gibson — October 5, 2016
(RNS) The Republican senator from New Hampshire is locked in a tough re-election battle. Could her campaign gimmick to distribute free condoms to college students prompt any Catholic backlash?
‘Liturgy shaming’ is a growing internet phenomenon. But is it a vice or a virtue?
By David Gibson — October 4, 2016
(RNS) Catholics in particular are debating the merits of what seems like simple bullying. Defenders of the practice say it gets the hierarchy’s attention – and safeguards the sanctity of the Mass.
Pope Francis eases sainthood process for murdered priest
By David Gibson — October 3, 2016
PARIS (Reuters) The Rev. Jacques Hamel was 85 years old when he was knifed to death at the altar by Islamist militants in July.
As Catholic priests are killed in Mexico, questions and tensions rise
By David Gibson — October 3, 2016
GUADALAJARA, Mexico (RNS) Is the church under attack? Or are the clergy just collateral damage in a wider wave of violence?
The Slingshot: Changing beliefs, Trump’s Christians, Peres hailed
By David Gibson — September 29, 2016
(RNS) New studies show fluctuating dogmas. Donald Trump rallies evangelicals. Will they rally back? Shimon Peres remembered. Hijabi runner on fitness mag. Space crusade? The divorce legacy.
Trump, Clinton to trade jokes instead of barbs at Al Smith dinner
By David Gibson — September 27, 2016
NEW YORK (RNS) This has been an unconventional campaign, but Cardinal Timothy Dolan will still host the GOP and Democratic nominees at the white-tie dinner for charity next month. What could possibly go wrong?
The Slingshot: Disorganized nonreligion. Ancient text. Journalism as ‘terrorism.’
By David Gibson — September 22, 2016
A new study shows the religiously unaffiliated, the “nones,” are booming. They’re not even interested in religion. Or in voting. A Dead Sea Scroll is deciphered. “Cafeteria Catholics.” Pope says bad journalism is like terrorism. Leonard Cohen is really Jewish. His Holiness, the Bill Murray.
