Ramadan helps Libyan and Syrian rebels, by encouraging the sort of thoughtful mindset it takes to carry out regime change, and providing the social gatherings rebels need to organize their government-toppling efforts, according to CNN.

Sri Lanka is conducting its first census of wild elephants, and may tame some of them to work in Buddhist or Hindu temples.

A mayor in Indonesia is trying to block the construction of churches on streets with Muslim names, the latest example, critics say, of growing religious intolerance in the nation.

Though the Libyan transitional government hasn’t secured the country yet, its draft constitution makes Islam the official religion of Libya, but allows non-Muslims to practice their faiths freely.

Rio de Janeiro gets its first mosque.

Some Muslim British students want a new student loan system that complies with Islamic law, which forbids the charging of interest. Up until now, interest on student loans was equivalent to inflation, which was acceptable to most Muslim students. A new system would charge more than inflation, but the British government is considering “renting” education to observant Muslims.

Objects from the exhibit “The Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan,” are now on view at New York’s Asia Society, showcasing that country’s multi-cultural, multi-religious roots.

A new Illinois law allows state-issued identification without photos for the Amish, who oppose being photographed on religious grounds.

No more altar girls during Mass at the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, SS. Simon and Jude. The rector said he’s trying to promote the priesthood for boys, and other religious paths for girls.

Christianity: Pro or Anti Dog? A new book finds a scriptural basis for the humane treatment of animals, but a Harvard professor says the Bible provides far more examples of cruelty than kindness toward our four-footed friends.

– Lauren Markoe