People

By Qassim Abdul-Zahra, Mariam Fam

Aging Shiite cleric a powerhouse in Iraq. What comes after?

NAJAF, Iraq (AP) — When Iraq's top Shiite cleric underwent surgery for a fractured bone last month, it sent shivers around the country and beyond. "May God heal Iraq," read ...

February 21, 2020
By Yonat Shimron

Franklin Graham vows UK tour will go on after planned venues back out

(RNS) — The tour is scheduled for late May through early June and was to feature eight venues in eight cities across the U.K. Thousands signed petitions objecting to his visit.

February 6, 2020
By Jeffrey Salkin

Why do they hate the Jews?

(RNS) — A recently deceased philosopher had an answer to that eternal question. It's not pretty.

February 4, 2020
By Jack Jenkins

Democratic presidential hopeful Tom Steyer on faith, climate change and who goes to heaven

(RNS) — Known for his environmental advocacy, Tom Steyer, like other candidates, has made a point of referencing his faith often while on the campaign trail. He spoke with RNS to discuss his faith, how it intersects with his policy agenda, and the overlap between religion and politics in the United States.

January 31, 2020
By Adelle M. Banks

Journalist Gwen Ifill remembered with stamp at her Washington church

WASHINGTON (RNS) — Known for moderating election-season debates, Ifill was the daughter of parents who were from the Caribbean and became deeply involved in the AME Church.

January 30, 2020
By Alejandra Molina

After Kobe Bryant’s death, Lakers’ chaplain seeks Scripture to help cope with tragic loss

LOS ANGELES (RNS) — Los Angeles Lakers chaplain Romell Witherspoon said he will pray and reflect as he prepares for Friday night’s game at Staples Center between the Lakers and the Portland Trail Blazers.

January 30, 2020

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By Emily McFarlan Miller

Willow Creek confirms abuse allegations against Hybels' mentor Gilbert Bilezikian

CHICAGO (RNS) — Willow Creek Community Church confirmed that a mentor of former pastor Bill Hybels has been accused of sexual misconduct.

January 28, 2020
By Yonat Shimron

Pete Buttigieg tells Jewish publication he'd spend $1 billion to fight anti-Semitism

(RNS) — An Episcopalian who has spoken out repeatedly about his faith, Buttigieg is courting the Jewish vote.

January 23, 2020
By Emily McFarlan Miller

United Methodist clergywomen ask church to reopen sexual misconduct case against elder

(RNS) — More than five dozen young United Methodist clergywomen are circulating an open letter claiming there was no justice in the denomination’s 'just resolution' process for the four women who accused the Rev. Donald 'Bud' Heckman of sexual misconduct.

January 23, 2020
By Bruce Shipkowski

Cleveland bishop named Philadelphia's next archbishop

(AP) — Nelson Perez will succeed Charles Chaput as leader of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the Vatican announced Thursday, making him the first Hispanic archbishop to lead the region's 1.3 million-member flock.

January 23, 2020
By Jesse L. Jackson Sr., Grace Ji-Sun Kim

Dr. King in today's America

(RNS) — Dr. King would recognize the progress that has been made, but he would not be dancing; he would be organizing. 'Change,' he taught, 'does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle.'

January 20, 2020
By Claire Giangravé

Benedict XVI steps back from book that put him at odds with pope

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — The former pope asked to be dropped as co-author of a book, due out in February that appears to disagree with Francis on priestly celibacy, according to an aide.

January 14, 2020

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By Jeffrey Salkin

Why is Bernie Sanders proud to be Jewish?

(RNS) — In a new political ad touting the Democratic candidate's faith, Jewish pride becomes a political cudgel.

February 20, 2020
By Jack Jenkins

Democrats lost white Christians. Can they win them back?

“Race matters more than religion right now,” said Ryan Burge, political science professor at Eastern Illinois University.

February 19, 2020
By Claire Giangravé

Vatican police raid home, office of influential church official in investment inquiry

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — The latest development in the church's financial scandal is apparently tied to interrogations of five officials who were suspended in October of last year.

February 18, 2020