The Slingshot: Snake news; Hate in Whitefish; Winter books

[slingshot_ad name=”Slingshot Banner Ad”]

Pope Francis arrives for his weekly general audience, in St. Peter’s Square, at the Vatican, Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2018. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)


Need to know: Wednesday, January 24, 2018

Pope compares fake news to ‘snake tactics’

In his weekly general audience, Francis says the proliferation of “fake news” is like the story of the serpent in the book of Genesis and asserts that "trusting in falsehood can have dire consequences.”

Descending on a Montana town, neo-Nazi trolls test where free speech ends

A year after Jews received threats in the pristine mountain resort of Whitefish — long a haven for white supremacists and militias — a court case is expected to test a state anti-intimidation statute and the limits of free expression.

In Germany, Catholic Church grapples with blessings for gay marriage

The unexpected legalization of gay marriage has led two bishops to speak out in favor of considering some form of benediction as a way to adjust to the changing times.

Southern Baptist Convention named in suit against prominent layman

The denomination has been named in a lawsuit that accuses Paul Pressler, a prominent layman and onetime Texas appeals court judge, of sexually abusing a former office assistant over the course of several decades.

Winter books: The getaway edition

Our seasonal list of recently published books that deal with religion and spirituality in plot, theme or subject matter.

When the religious doctor refuses to treat you

The Trump administration is making it easier for medical providers to object to procedures on religious grounds. Will patients suffer as a result?

[slingshot_ad name=”Slingshot Middle Cube Ad”]

Latest news from RNS

Satanic Temple member fights Missouri abortion restrictions

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Attorney James MacNaughton says the abortion restrictions conflict with his client's beliefs, which are to follow scientific understanding of the world.

10 Roman Catholic priests arrested in protests in Congo

The church called the protests because the country’s authoritarian president has long ignored an agreement, brokered by bishops, that required him to step down.

Pope apologizes to abuse victims but defends Chilean bishop

ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE (AP) — Pope Francis apologized for insisting that victims of pedophile priests show 'proof' to be believed, saying he realized it was a 'slap in the face' to victims that he never intended.

More views from RNS

How to change hearts on race

(RNS) — Ultimately, doctrines of racial superiority have to be destroyed in the deep places of our souls. But a smartphone can help.

Mike Pence, Zionist thinker

Mike Pence gave a great speech in the Knesset. There. I said it.

I have autism … and I’m a Mormon

(RNS) — In some ways, being Mormon is an advantage when coping with autism, and in other ways, Mormonism makes it harder, writes guest columnist Mette Harrison.

[slingshot_ad name=”Slingshot Bottom Cube Ad”]