The Dalai Lama teaches a lesson on rethinking our faith traditions
(RNS) — Tibetan Buddhism's leader recently called to end the prominence of reincarnated lamas, a model for religious leaders who cling to entrenched modes of thinking.
As Americans become less religious, the role of chaplains may grow
(RNS) — As fewer people identify with a specific religion and as houses of faith experience a drop in attendance, some religious scholars expect that in the next number of years people will be more likely to meet a chaplain than a local clergyperson.
In Thailand, Pope Francis wins hearts by breaking the mold
BANGKOK (RNS) — In Thailand's highly formal society, Pope Francis’ relaxed approach has already brought together political and religious leaders to help those left behind in the country's increasingly commercial culture.
Pope brings his 'show, don't tell' evangelization to Thai Catholics
BANGKOK (RNS) — Pope Francis praised Thai Catholics as 'missionary disciples' for their work in health care and serving others during his visit to the mostly Buddhist nation this week.
Federal judge gives Buddhist death row inmate another stay of execution
(RNS) — The Texas death row inmate’s execution has now been stayed twice this year over concerns for religious freedom.
She reclaimed her faith as a woman. Now she's teaching others to reclaim theirs.
DURHAM, N.C. (RNS) — A harrowing journey toward gender transition led Yiscah Smith to find God's dwelling within. Now she teaches others to do the same.
Meditation apps proliferate, even if what they provide is not enlightenment
(RNS) — Some teachers worry that corporate America's adoption of Buddhism’s spiritual practice could be used for unethical purposes.
To save the planet, we need faith, ethics, science and economics
(RNS) — Responding to climate change requires a moral vision that puts the poor and future generations on an equal footing with ourselves.
My religious knowledge — and yours
(RNS) — Both could stand some improvement.
“Which church is true?” isn’t the right question anymore
Nearly 200 years ago, Joseph Smith asked God which church was true. Today, Mormon missionary work assumes this is still people's most burning question.
Jains gather in California with the next generation on their minds
LOS ANGELES (RNS) — The ancient Indian faith has seen tremendous growth in the U.S. over the past two decades, largely through immigration. Now the challenge is sustaining the faith's numbers among millennials and Gen Z.
Raising a progressive Hindu voice to counter Indian Modi's increasing power
(RNS) — Sunita Vishwanath founded Sadhana in 2011 to counter those in India and abroad who she believes are co-opting Hinduism for political gain.
Buddhist official tells police alleged abuse victim was exploring her sexuality
(RNS) — Dennis L. Southward, who handled security and domestic violence matters for Shambhala International, told police that the woman 'could do a lot of damage' if she pressed charges against her alleged abuser.
Religion in the classroom: Where the faithful and the ACLU can agree
(RNS) — A Pew poll from 2010 found that a majority of Americans cannot name the first book of the Bible but can provide the names of the four Beatles.
Can witches and consumer culture coexist?
(RNS) — As long as millennials adapt rituals and spells as a force for change, companies will hawk those rituals and spells to preserve the status quo.