News
Dream of 3 faiths worshipping in one building meets reality in Berlin
By Ken Chitwood — February 15, 2021
(RNS) — Its designers and leaders hope it will be used by Jewish, Christian and Muslim members as a place to pray, worship, gather and, perhaps above all, host a dialogue among their respective religions and with society at large.
Marriage & divorce amid pandemic: Couples’ challenges abound
By David Crary — February 15, 2021
(AP) — When it comes to marrying, divorcing and having kids, people have become more cautious amid the pandemic.
Buddhist temple food pantry a lifeline for Nepalese students
By Luis Andres Henao and Jessie Wardarski — February 15, 2021
NEW YORK (AP) — The United Sherpa Association launched the food program from scratch last April as the coronavirus was ravaging the borough and other parts of the city.
Urban Ministries’ Melvin Banks, who highlighted Black experience in Bible, dies at 86
By Urban Faith — February 15, 2021
(Urban Faith) — Banks revolutionized Bible study by portraying positive images of African Americans in the biblical experience.
France fights hold of Islamist radicals with dragnets, laws
By Elaine Ganley — February 15, 2021
(RNS) — The proposed legislation is intended to re-anchor secularism in a France where Muslims are increasingly visible and Islam is gaining a stronger voice.
Biden signs executive order reestablishing White House faith office
By Jack Jenkins and Adelle M. Banks — February 14, 2021
(RNS) — The order reappoints Melissa Rogers, who headed the office under President Barack Obama.
New pastors announced to replace Carl Lentz at Hillsong East Coast
By Roxanne Stone — February 13, 2021
(RNS) — Chrishan and Danielle Jeyaratnam, currently pastors at the Hillsong campus in Perth, Australia, have been named to the top spots at the embattled New York location.
John MacArthur’s Grace Community Church postpones event after health officials balk
By Alejandra Molina — February 13, 2021
LOS ANGELES (RNS) — The Shepherds' Conference, scheduled March 3-5, typically draws men from as far away as Florida and Pennsylvania.
Frederick K.C. Price, televangelist who built LA’s FaithDome, dies from COVID-19
By Bob Smietana — February 13, 2021
(RNS) — A popular though sometimes controversial prosperity gospel pastor, Price built one of the largest church buildings in the country.
Photos of the Week: Carnival cancellations, Lunar New Year
By Kit Doyle — February 13, 2021
(RNS) — This week’s photo selection includes cancellations of Carnival celebrations, the Lunar New Year marking the Year of the Ox in the Chinese zodiac and more.
After California ruling, some are worshipping indoors, others still think it’s too risky
By Alejandra Molina — February 12, 2021
(RNS) — 'We’re going to hold on until we feel better about it,' said the Rev. Austin Doran, of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Los Angeles County.
Amy Coney Barrett joins liberal justices to stay execution, grant inmate’s pastor access
By Jack Jenkins — February 12, 2021
WASHINGTON (RNS) — The result hinted at Barrett's broader approach to religious liberty.
American Jews are taking a hard look at racism in their midst
By Yonat Shimron — February 12, 2021
(RNS) — The challenge for white American Jews is to understand that they can be both targets of white supremacy and also accomplices.
Martin Gugino committed to struggle, despite grand jury dismissal
By Yonat Shimron — February 12, 2021
(RNS) — 'There’s a great deal of work that needs to be done,' said the 76-year-old Catholic peace activist on hearing that assault charges were dropped against two Buffalo police officers. 'It’s one more setback.'
This Valentine’s Day, some pass up chocolates and flowers for love spells
By Antonio Pagliarulo — February 12, 2021
(RNS) — Though magic is a cornerstone of modern-day witchcraft, many who practice spells are not witches but seekers looking to make positive change in their lives.
