The families have contended that a 2017 Supreme Court case set a precedent prohibiting government from excluding religious schools from benefit programs.
religion
Impromptu Virgin Mary shrine takes shape in Phippsburg antique store parking lot
PHIPPSBURG — An improvised shrine to the Virgin Mary has appeared in the parking lot of a Phippsburg antique shop, and some faithful are using it as a prayer stop. A few weeks ago, David Cooke, the owner of Maggies Bygones, an antiques store at 165 Main Road in Phippsburg, noticed people pulling into the far […]
Opponents of a dozen new laws aim to erase them with ‘people’s veto’ campaigns
With a short time to collect 63,067 signatures, special interest groups and individuals file more than a dozen requests to challenge newly signed laws.
Justice Department backs parents suing Maine over tuition for religious schools
Three couples are challenging state law and seeking reimbursement for their children’s tuition to religious schools.
Maine’s Muslim community gets show of support in wake of New Zealand attacks
At least two dozen people keep watch outside a Portland mosque during Friday afternoon prayers.
Maine Episcopalians elect openly gay bishop
One of five finalists, the Rev. Thomas James Brown ‘clearly … made an impression.’ He expects to be consecrated in June.
Women strive for larger roles in male-dominated religions
Women have been elected heads of national governments on six continents. They have flown into space, served in elite combat units and won every category of Nobel Prize. The global #MeToo movement, in 15 months, has toppled a multitude of powerful men linked to sexual misconduct. Yet in most of the world’s major religions, women […]
Augusta schools’ proposed policy would add religious holidays to school calendar
AUGUSTA — A new policy to highlight religious holidays — though not create any new days off — is scheduled for discussion Wednesday by the school board. The policy would include religious holidays for Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists and Hindus on the school calendar so teachers and school administrators can try to avoid scheduling events […]
Jay, Farmington parishes helping Haitian church
FARMINGTON — Parishioners at St. Joseph Parish in Farmington and St. Rose of Lima Parish in Jay are inviting people to assist with their work on behalf of St. Laurent Parish in the Diocese of Les Cayes, Haiti. The Parish Twinning Program began in 2004. “The Parish Twinning Program of the Americas ‘twinned’ us with […]
Pinpoint of Light Spiritualist Camp to offer Parapalooza, spiritualism class this summer
HARTFORD — The Pinpoint of Light Spiritualist Camp has announced its summer programming, which includes the Parapalooza, campfire circles, devotional services and Religion and Spiritualism classes. Parapalooza: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 30, at the Hartford Town Hall, 1190 Main St. Admission is $10 which includes information and conversation. Admission-plus is $20 which includes a […]