Some Catholics say it’s further evidence that Pope Francis is moving to curb discrimination in the church; others say the announcement heralds no real change at all.
Religion & Values
Posted inNation / World, News, Religion & Values
Pope’s approval of gay blessings could have impact in places where rights are restricted
From Uganda to the United States, laws that discriminate against LGBTQ+ people or even criminalize homosexuality have increased in recent years, leaving communities feeling under attack.
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Posted inNation / World, News, Religion & Values
Pope approves blessings for same-sex couples
Francis suggested such blessings could be offered under some circumstances if they didn’t confuse the ritual with the sacrament of marriage.
Posted inReligion & Values
One fourth of United Methodist churches have left in schism over LGBTQ ban. What happens now?
The vast major are conservative-leaning churches responding to what they see as the United Methodists’ failure to enforce bans on same-sex marriage and the ordaining of openly LGBTQ persons.
Posted inNation / World, Politics, Religion & Values
Far-right lawmaker extinguishes Hanukkah candles in Polish parliament
The parliament slapped the highest possible financial penalty on Grzegorz Braun, forcing him to lose half of 3 months of his salary and per diems for half a year.
Posted inNation / World, Religion & Values
Pope makes his first public appearances since being stricken by bronchitis
Pope Francis, who turns 87 on Dec. 17, came down with the flu on Nov. 25 and was forced to cancel a planned trip to Dubai to participate in the U.N. climate conference.
Posted inNation / World, Religion & Values
In undisclosed call, Pope Francis warned Israel against committing ‘terror’
The call with President Isaac Herzog was felt to have gone so badly Israel didn’t report it, signaling a widening rift between the Vatican and the Jewish state.
Posted inNation / World, News, Religion & Values
Pope punishes leading critic Cardinal Burke in 2nd action against conservative American prelates
The cardinal has become one of the most outspoken critics of the pope, his outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics and his reform project to make the church more responsive to the needs of ordinary faithful.
Posted inFood, Religion & Values
For Diwali, Indians in Maine celebrate and reminisce over sweets
Maine’s Indian community celebrates their biggest holiday of the year with cherished family-based traditions and plenty of sugary treats.
Posted inLewiston-Auburn, Maine, Religion & Values
Healing in hope: Local clergy turn to their faith to help lead grieving community out of darkness
In the wake of 18 murders, faith leaders have opened their churches and hearts to victims, families, communities making their way through immense tragedy.