Anti-Muslim hate crimes spike in Britain
(RNS) There were 437 incidents of anti-Muslim hatred recorded last year, up from 146 the year before.
Pope Francis is no Baptist: A wedding without wine is ‘shameful!’
VATICAN CITY (RNS) Despite some reports to the contrary, Francis proves that the pope is indeed Catholic: “Imagine finishing a wedding party drinking tea," he said Wednesday. "It would be shameful!"
Gladiator screenwriter to pen biopic of Sufi mystic Rumi
(RNS) David Franzoni, whose script helped clinch the best-picture Academy Award for 'Gladiator' in 2001, is embarking on a new project charting the life of the beloved poet, scholar and Sufi mystic Jalaluddin al-Rumi.
Pope's visit to Armenian genocide memorial may strain tensions with Turkey
VATICAN CITY (RNS) Francis’ trip carries huge significance, following the pontiff’s description of the killings as "the first genocide of the 20th century,” a claim Turkey rejects.
'You are not alone,' Pope Francis tells refugees, brings 12 to Rome
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The pontiff's dramatic gesture capped a lightning visit, with Orthodox Christian leaders, to a Greek island that had a politically-charged message for Europe.
Sanders delivers his campaign pitch, wrapped in praise for the pope
VATICAN CITY (RNS) In the end, the Democratic candidate got something almost as good as a pope picture: blanket news coverage and a chance to deliver his stump speech wrapped in the words of the popular pontiff.
Bernie Sanders won't be meeting Pope Francis (probably)
VATICAN CITY (RNS) When Sanders goes to the Vatican to address an economic conference, a papal meeting is not on the agenda. But, an official said, “Never say never."
Pope Francis again blasts moral legalism by religious leaders
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The pontiff continued to preach the overarching theme of the landmark apostolic exhortation on the family he issued last week.
Papal document prescribes pragmatic view of family
VATICAN CITY (RNS) Francis' apostolic exhortation maintains church teachings on divorce and sexuality but stresses the need for “a healthy dose of self-criticism.”
Pope to stress broader conception of family
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The Apostolic Exhortation, “Amoris Laetitia” (“The Joy of Love”), will be the culmination of two synods in which family matters were hotly debated by bishops.
Pope blesses eyes of Ohio girl going blind
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The Myers family traveled from Ohio for the papal blessing, part of a “bucket list” of experiences they wanted Lizzy to have before she loses her sight.
Muslim schoolboys' handshake refusal causes stir in Switzerland
(RNS) The brothers, ages 14 and 15, refused to shake their female teacher's hand, rejecting a national tradition.
Skateboarding church creator rejects criticism
(RNS) Okuda San Miguel transformed a long-abandoned church in northern Spain into a work of art and a place for recreation.
Report: Krakow site not safe for July's World Youth Day event
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The Field of Mercy site near Krakow poses a “high risk for the life and health of people,” according to a report published by Polish television.
Surviving nun recalls Yemen massacre
ROME (RNS) The handwritten notes tell how gunmen hunted down the nuns, four of the 16 victims, and then destroyed the Christian symbols in the Catholic nursing home.