Today RNS reports that as an unprecedented number of Americans turn to Buddhism-there are now an estimated 6 million Buddhists nationwide-more and more Buddhist ideas and symbols are popping up in bookstores, gift shops and business retreats. An accompanying sidebar tells the story of Siddhartha Gautama, who 2,500 years ago at the age of 35 became the Buddha.

Today we’re also reporting on an apology from the board of the Unitarian Universalist Association for incidents involving “apparently disrespectful and racist treatment” of youth delegates during the denomination’s annual meeting in Fort Worth, Texas, in June. The UUA board’s letter has set off a debate among Unitarians about tensions over race within the mostly white denomination.

In addition we’re covering the news that the Rev. Steve Gaines will be replacing the Rev. Adrian Rogers, one of the nation’s best-known Southern Baptist leaders, at the renowned Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tenn.