(RNS) “In that backroom or whatever it is when God confronts me with my sins, I do not believe any of the kills I had during the war will be among them,” legendary sniper Chris Kyle wrote in his 2012 autobiography. “Everyone I shot was evil. I had good cause on every shot.”

(RNS) Retired Bishop Melvin Talbert, who served as the leader of United Methodists in San Francisco, ignored a request not to perform a same-sex ceremony in Alabama.

(RNS) Dean Katherine Hancock Ragsdale has been outspoken in her support of abortion rights, earning the title of “the high priestess of abortion” from critics.

(RNS) Many of the nation’s smaller religious groups are more proportionally represented in the 114th Congress that is to be sworn in on Tuesday.

One of the police officers shot in Brooklyn was in a volunteer chaplain program. The stained-glass window industry isn’t doing so great. And Jesus’ birthplace is facing some modern-day struggles.

(RNS) “People who previously assumed that racial prejudice was back in the Jim Crow era are awakened by it with their own kids,” said Southern Baptist leader Russell Moore.

An armed terrorist is holding an unknown number of hostages in Australia. Pope Francis did not say puppies would go to heaven. Plus, why some Christians don’t celebrate Christmas.

Pope Francis argues for pups in heaven. Congressional staffers raise their hands outside the Capitol. Plus, Kansas is now issuing gender-neutral marriage licenses.

(RNS) A two-year investigation led by Billy Graham’s grandson concluded that the school poorly responded to victims of sexual assault.

(RNS) “He said he wanted the message to reach everyone,” Jolie said. “He said to make faith and forgiveness universal.”

NEW YORK (RNS) The question is whether Hollywood can lure faith-based audiences with a story that’s based on faith but doesn’t pay much attention to it.

(RNS) The idea was unwelcome from both gay activists and those who oppose same-sex marriage.

(RNS) Exchanging his evangelical bona fides for the blessing of Oprah may yet prove — for some — to be Rob Bell’s most unforgivable sin. Which is not to say that he cares very much what anyone says these days.

Churches urge both peace and activism after the decision in Ferguson. Pope Francis drew headlines during his trip to Turkey. Plus, 12 Advent calendars to keep you busy.

(RNS) While many lament the commercialization of Christmas, others aren’t letting Advent escape without a price tag.