RNS staff

RNS staff is an author at Religion News Service.

All Stories by RNS staff

The most intriguing books on religion we read this year

By RNS staff — December 23, 2020
(RNS) — Our reading list this year, like the rest of our lives, was colored by the triple whammy of 2020: the pandemic, the racial justice protests and the presidential election.

From civil rights to no nukes: A look at historic protest photos

By RNS staff — June 11, 2020
(RNS) — Clergy and faith leaders have a long history of involvement in protests. Here’s a look back at some religious engagement in historic demonstrations.

Frank Page, SBC leader, retires due to ‘inappropriate relationship’

By RNS staff — March 27, 2018
(RNS) — "As a result of a personal failing, I have embarrassed my family, my Lord, myself, and the Kingdom," Page said.

Jewish organizations encourage retelling the Passover story with trivia cards

By RNS staff — March 26, 2018
(RNS) — Did you know that Jews from Gibraltar sprinkle brick dust into their Passover haroset dish, or that Middle Eastern Jewish families whip themselves with scallions at the seder table?

Willow Creek pastor Bill Hybels denies claims of inappropriate behavior

By RNS staff — March 23, 2018
(RNS) — The senior pastor of one of the nation's largest megachurches has been the subject of inquiries into allegations of inappropriate behavior with women in his congregation and on its staff.

Survey: Protestant church diversity ‘heading in the right direction’

By RNS staff — March 21, 2018
(RNS) — A new survey published by LifeWay Research suggests Protestant churches still are diversifying slowly — despite reports of a 'quiet exodus' of people of color from predominantly white evangelical churches.

Kentucky considers law on student prayer

By RNS staff — March 19, 2018
(RNS) — 'A Day of Prayer for Kentucky's Students' would be voluntary, state lawmakers say.

Trump inauguration Bible heads to museum

By RNS staff — March 16, 2018
(RNS) — It was given to him by his mother when he was a child.

Billy Graham: He kept the faith and (mostly) dropped the politics

By RNS staff — February 21, 2018
WASHINGTON (RNS) — Billy Graham is remembered for a subtle approach to politics that contrasts sharply with many of today's openly political evangelicals.

Russian Orthodox bishop assails Putin, won’t vote for him

By RNS staff — January 22, 2018
MOSCOW (AP) — The independent Novaya Gazeta noted Monday that Yevtikhiy's comment marked the first time a top member of the Orthodox clergy had spoken out against Putin.

RNS Best of 2017: An unexpected president and the ‘hand of God’

By RNS staff — December 26, 2017
In our 'Hand of God' series, RNS takes a closer look at the widespread belief that God intervenes in our nation’s political process.

Billy Graham at 99: He kept the faith and (mostly) dropped the politics

By RNS staff — November 7, 2017
WASHINGTON (RNS) — As he celebrates his birthday today, in what his son described as "stable" health, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association is kicking of a yearlong celebration of the preacher's past.

Students disciplined for ‘Jews vs. Nazis’ beer pong game

By RNS staff — August 25, 2017
(AP) — In the image, students are seen playing beer pong with cups in the shapes of a swastika and a Star of David.

Pope prays for ill baby Charlie Gard and parents

By RNS staff — July 24, 2017
LONDON (AP) — The Vatican also said in a statement Monday evening that Francis 'feels especially close to them at this time of immense suffering.'

Launch of USCIRF’s 2017 Annual Report: The State of International Religious Freedom

By RNS staff — July 17, 2017
USCIRF hosted an event on May 17, 2017 in Washington, D.C. titled “The State of International Religious Freedom.” Commissioners discussed findings and recommendations from its 2017 Annual Report, in addition to the newly launched Religious Prisoners of Conscience Project.
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