NPR's Michel Martin hears from gay couples and a priest about the announcement from the Vatican that priests can now offer blessings to same-sex couples.
Catholic priests may now bless same-sex couples, according to a declaration used by the Vatican and approved by Pope Francis. The document says these blessings are not to be considered marriage.
In a major development, the Vatican said priests may bless same-sex couples in informal settings, such as a meeting or visit to a shrine, so long as the blessing does not appear to endorse a marriage.
Cardinal Angelo Becciu, the first cardinal ever prosecuted by the Vatican criminal court, was convicted in a complicated financial trial that aired the Vatican's dirty laundry.
If you find yourself in Hanukkah withdrawal, take Round and Round for a spin: This time-loop romance embraces the holiday in a way that feels complete and thoughtful.
Christian Wiman says he's no longer afraid of dying. "When death hangs over you for a while, you start to forget about it," he says. Wiman's new book is Zero at the Bone.
Alabama plans to execute a prisoner using nitrogen gas. NPR obtained a Department of Corrections document showing the method may pose risks to others in the room and impede religious liberties.
Rick Rubin could have written about the music industry and insider stories. Instead, he spent eight years writing what is basically a spiritual text about making something meaningful.