What They're Saying: Vatican's New Tolerance On Gays And The Divorced
We take a look at viewpoints from the Catholic and secular media about a stunning interim report released by a synod of bishops meeting at the Vatican.
religion
Vatican Report Conciliatory Toward Gays, Unmarried Couples
An assembly of Roman Catholic bishops calls for the church to welcome gays, unmarried couples and those who have divorced. Steve Inskeep talks to Joshua McElwee of the National Catholic Reporter.
'Mass Mobs' Aim To Keep Pews Full At Old Churches
Every month, a group in Detroit picks a church that could use an influx of parishioners to fill its pews — and collection baskets. Word spreads on Facebook, and come Sunday, the church is buzzing.
A Surprising Tie That Binds Hong Kong's Protest Leaders: Faith
Many older activists were educated at missionary schools, which informs their sense of social and political justice. It's sure to be noticed by Beijing, which sees religion as a threat to its rule.
In 'Season Of Mercy,' Will Vatican Rethink Communion For Divorcees?
Pope Francis hasn't ruled out changing church doctrine that bars divorced and remarried Catholics from receiving Holy Communion. There are fierce opponents, while others favor simplifying annulment.
Vatican Synod Tests The Pope's Vision Of A More Merciful Church
Bishops are meeting with Pope Francis these next two weeks for an extraordinary conference to debate family matters – including hot-button issues like artificial contraception and gay civil unions.
The Dalai Lama Talks Chinese Reforms, Tibetan Challenges
"China can no longer isolate itself," says the religious leader, who praises Chinese President Xi Jinping for fighting corruption. He also says Tibetans don't need a Dalai Lama any more.
Muslims In Minnesota Weigh Whether To Expel Or Engage At-Risk Youth
After several young people left to join ISIS, leaders are considering which approach to take with marginalized youth. Boston's experience with the marathon bombing suspects may be instructive.
Millennial Jews Do An About-Face, Start Keeping Kosher
According to a 2013 Pew Research Center study, nearly a fourth of millennial Jews are keeping kosher. That's almost twice the rate of their baby-boomer parents.
In NFL Game, A Slide And A Prayer Spur Debate And Clarification
The NFL sides with fans who criticized an unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty called on a Muslim player who prostrated himself in the end zone Monday night.