The Slingshot: Reformation redux; ISIS pride; Pontifical slumber

[slingshot_ad name=”Slingshot Banner Ad”]

Clergy of a variety of faiths take part in a program marking the 500th anniversary of the Reformation at Lutheran Church of the Reformation in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 31, 2017. RNS photo by Adelle M. Banks


Need to know: Wednesday, November 1, 2017

On Reformation anniversary, Lutherans bridge divides with other faiths

A ceremony at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation in Washington was one of numerous ways Christians around the globe have marked the milestone – from pilgrimages retracing Luther’s steps in Germany to conferences, scholarly talks and hymn festivals.

ISIS supporters celebrate deadliest terror attack in Manhattan since 9/11

The assailant's connection to the group remains in question, however, and unfounded ISIS claims that it was behind the Las Vegas shooting have shed doubts on the veracity of the group's allegations.

Running, not hiding

From school boards to Congress, there’s a surge of Muslims running for office nationwide, but they’re having to prove their “Americanness” to voters.

The Lost Children of Tuam

Ireland wanted to forget what happened in a home for single mothers and illegitimate children. But the dead don’t always stay buried.

How the prosperity gospel is sparking a major change in predominantly Catholic Brazil

In a country struggling with the worst economic crisis in its history, perhaps it’s not surprising that Brazilians are increasingly drawn to the promises of personal wealth.

Pope Francis admits: ‘When I pray, sometimes I fall asleep’

The 80-year-old Argentinian pontiff, who often prays for long periods with his eyes closed, claims saints also slumbered during prayer.

DOUBLE YOUR DONATION! Donate to RNS before December 31 and News Match will DOUBLE your gift! Donate Now.

Latest news from RNS

Notre Dame ends free contraceptive coverage for employees

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — Notre Dame previously offered coverage through a third party, which allowed the university to meet the requirement while maintaining its religious opposition to contraceptives.

Germany marks 500th anniversary of church’s Reformation

BERLIN (AP) — In remembrance of the 500th anniversary, Reformation Day is a public holiday in Germany this year.

What came after: The Counter-Reformation art of Carlo Dolci

His meticulous paintings of Christian themes, saturated with emotion and glistening with color, were everything the iconoclast reformers railed against.

More views from RNS

Why the ecumenical movement is a historical event on par with the Reformation

(RNS) — Ecumenism did so much during the last century to heal the divisions among Christians. (COMMENTARY)

Is Reformed theology for black people?

(RNS) — Given the history of slavery and racism practiced by white Reformed Christians, black people are an unlikely group to identify as Reformed. But that doesn't mean it didn't resonate.

How abortion changed the culture wars on same-sex marriage and religious freedom

Conservative Christians have gone from emphasizing their "moral majority" status to making political claims about individual rights, says author Andrew Lewis -- and it all started with abortion.

[slingshot_ad name=”Slingshot Bottom Cube Ad”]