VATICAN CITY (RNS) — The world economy needs "new rules" to overcome the current financial crisis and to ensure that "all can lead a dignified life," Pope Benedict XVI told Vatican diplomats on Jan. 9. Benedict's New Year's address to…
Would Mormons try to influence a Romney White House?
c. 2012 Salt Lake Tribune WASHINGTON (RNS) — When Switzerland passed new employment rules that ban foreign religious groups from sending unpaid missionaries, 13 Mormon members of Congress pleaded with the Swiss ambassador for an exception. The Swiss ambassador sent…
Two churches join Alliance of Baptists
By Bob Allen Two churches disciplined by Baptist bodies for affirming gays have joined the Alliance of Baptists, a theologically progressive organization formed by churches and individuals separating from the Southern Baptist Convention in 1987. The Alliance’s e-mail newsletter announced…
Baptist sexuality conference program released
Jenell Paris By Bob Allen Scholar and author Jenell Paris headlines A [Baptist] Conference on Sexuality and Covenant program scheduled April 19-21 at First Baptist Church in Decatur, Ga. Paris, professor of cultural anthropology at Messiah College and author of…
Carter’s new book based on 70 years in Sunday school
Jimmy Carter was president for four years, but his new book is based on a role that he's held for nearly 70 years: Sunday school teacher. Through the Year with Jimmy Carter: 366 Daily Meditations from the 39th President, offers…
Rob Bell says goodbye to Michigan megachurch
GRANDVILLE, Mich. (RNS) — For years, Rob Bell closed his Sunday teachings at Mars Hill Bible Church with a simple statement: "Grace and peace be with you." Thousands would respond in unison: "And also with you." Rob Bell is leaving…
A book by a Baptist who happens to be a former president
Jimmy Carter was president for four years, but his new book is based on a role that he's held for nearly 70 years: Sunday school teacher. Through the Year with Jimmy Carter: 366 Daily Meditations from the 39th President, offers…
Opinion: Warning, this sermon may be X-rated
(ABP) – Mega-church preacher Ed Young Jr. is challenging married couples in his church and beyond to conduct a “sexperiment” – to have sex for seven straight days as a way to improve their marriage. Videos promoting Sexperiment: 7 Days…
Rob Bell says goodbye to Michigan megachurch
GRANDVILLE, Mich. (RNS) — For years, Rob Bell closed his Sunday teachings at Mars Hill Bible Church with a simple statement: "Grace and peace be with you." Thousands would respond in unison: "And also with you." Rob Bell is leaving…
Former youth pastor, teacher charged with molestation
By Bob Allen Residents of a Birmingham suburb expressed shock at sexual abuse charges filed against a popular school teacher who faced similar allegations, but avoided arrest, 20 years ago while he was youth minister at a Baptist church. Police…
Francis McBeth, world-renowned composer, dies at 78
W. Francis McBeth, an internationally acclaimed composer and conductor and longtime professor of music at Ouachita Baptist University, died Friday, Jan. 6, at age 78. Francis McBeth McBeth, who earned extensive accolades throughout his career, served as Ouachita’s composer-in-residence, Lena…
VITAL SIGNS: Critical questions for 2012
If there is one recurring theme to the conversations I have regularly with clergy, lay leaders and denominational employees, it is viability. In a myriad of ways, people are asking viability questions about ministry, congregational life, finances, staff models, facilities,…