Race & Religion
The Rev. Cecil Williams, who turned San Francisco’s Glide Church into a refuge for many, has died
By Olga R. Rodriguez — April 24, 2024
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Williams and his wife, Janice Marikitami, who passed away in 2021, appeared in Will Smith’s film “The Pursuit of Happyness,” which was based on the life of a homeless father and son who once found help at Glide Memorial Church.
New leader of Jesse Jackson’s civil rights organization steps down just months on the job
By Sophia Tareen — April 18, 2024
US Catholics more polarized than ever about still-popular Pope Francis, survey says
By Aleja Hertzler-McCain — April 12, 2024
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Latter-day Saints leader addresses congregants without a word on racial or LGBTQ+ issues
By Hannah Schoenbaum — April 8, 2024
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Russell M. Nelson announced the planned construction in a pre-recorded closing speech at the twice-annual Salt Lake City conference. It's traditionally watched by millions worldwide.
Poll: Muslims most discriminated group in US, but Jews not far behind
By Yonat Shimron — April 2, 2024
(RNS) — The poll, taken in February, reflects changing attitudes toward U.S. Jews in the wake of the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel and the fierce, now 6-month-old war in Gaza.
African spiritualities are attracting Black Americans as a source of pride and identity
By Fiona André — March 21, 2024
(RNS) — Ancestral veneration, Haitian Vodou, Brazilian Candomblé, Cuban Santería and Ifá have gained attention among Black adults, who see it as an occasion to reconnect with their heritage and celebrate their Blackness.
Charlie Dates counters John MacArthur’s declaration that MLK ‘was not a Christian’
By Adelle M. Banks and Bob Smietana — March 20, 2024
(RNS) — In an open letter, the Chicago pastor compares the California pastor to King opponents George Wallace and J. Edgar Hoover, calling MacArthur 'them in postmodern dress.'
‘We can no longer be silent’: New York’s Latino faith leaders call for cease-fire in Gaza
By Fiona André — March 6, 2024
NEW YORK (RNS) — The community has avoided taking stances on the Israel-Hamas war for fear of altering the group’s strong relationship with the city’s Jewish community.
Michigan’s Muslim voters mobilize to vote ‘uncommitted’ in Democratic primary
By Fiona André — February 26, 2024
(RNS) — For many, Tuesday's primary is a chance to show the impact of Muslim Americans' dissatisfaction with Biden's support for Israel and his refusal to advocate for a cease-fire in Gaza.
Faith leaders renew push for ‘accurate’ Black history education in Florida
By Adelle M. Banks — February 23, 2024
(RNS) — Training sessions in Tallahassee and in Orlando will feature curriculum companies whose products could enhance those wishing to teach Black history in schools and churches.
African Methodist Episcopal Church leaders call for halt to all US funding of Israel
By Adelle M. Banks — February 16, 2024
(RNS) — The statement comes in a week of continuing calls for cease-fire and humanitarian aid for the victims of the war that began on Oct. 7.
‘Black Liturgies’ book offers prayers for Black-centered spiritual liberation
By Kathryn Post — February 16, 2024
(RNS) — Cole Arthur Riley on doubt, embodiment and writing a prayer book to a God she’s not convinced exists.
With George Floyd in mind, Bible co-editors created Breathe Life Bible
By Adelle M. Banks — February 13, 2024
(RNS) — After the death of George Floyd, a Black man killed by a white police officer, the co-editors of the new Bible say they felt compelled to do something.
For Black ‘nones’ who leave religion, what’s next?
By Kathryn Post — February 12, 2024
(RNS) — When Black Americans leave religion, they rarely leave it altogether. But even as they retain elements of Christian culture, what other communities are they embracing beyond the church?
In ‘Gospel’ docuseries, Henry Louis Gates Jr. explores Black church’s music, ministers
By Adelle M. Banks — February 9, 2024
WASHINGTON (RNS) — Gates reveals early tension within the genres as some musicians held to music only of faith and others were comfortable far afield from gospel music.
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