Hurricane Sandy
Where are the condemnations of Harvey as God’s punishment?
Historic New Jersey church struggles to repair hurricane damage
COMMENTARY: President Obama, Mourner in Chief
House passes bill to give disaster relief to religious groups
Photo Slideshow: UMC Hurricane Sandy Cleanup
Churches, synagogues press for federal rebuilding aid after Sandy
Poll: More than one-third of Americans see signs of end times in extreme weather
(RNS) A new poll shows more than a third of Americans believe the severity of recent natural disasters is evidence that we are in the “end times” described in the Bible – a period of turmoil preceding the return of Christ and the end of the world. By Lauren Markoe.
What Hanukkah can teach us about preserving sacred space
NEW YORK (RNS) The Hanukkah story of the oil in the Temple -- a measure enough for one day that lasted for eight -- speaks to the intentions and motivations that must underlie our efforts at conservation and our work to slow climate change. The theme of Hanukkah is the rededication of sacred space. By Rabbi Julie Schonfeld.
Charitable giving up, but Sandy and tax changes expected to impact year-end donations
(RNS) The recession continued to affect how much Americans gave to charity last year, and the triple whammy of Superstorm Sandy, a national election and the looming fiscal cliff may cut how much we donate in the crucial final month of 2012, experts say. By Elizabeth Weise / USA Today.
After Sandy, New Yorkers and New Jerseyites showed “this is what adults do”
NEW YORK (RNS) After the most dreadful political season in memory, I took heart as leaders stepped up to lead after Hurricane Sandy and as adults stepped up to do what adults do. Those who have actual responsibilities carried them out, while those who lust for power were ignored. By Tom Ehrich.
‘Earth Sabbath’ helps activists tend spiritual side of environmentalism
RALEIGH, N.C. (RNS) While many religious congregations have sought ways to reduce energy consumption, few have paid attention to the spiritual dimensions of this work. Several North Carolina churches are finding a remedy through a service they call the Earth Sabbath. By Yonat Shimron.
Is it ethical to defy evacuation orders?
(RNS) As Sandy cleanup continues, so does an ethical debate: Is evacuation a moral duty? By G. Jeffrey MacDonald.