Some pastors simply can’t win for losing when trying to navigate the politics consuming many American churches. Those who try to stay clear of contentious issues are criticized for avoiding important issues. Those who take up those topics are accused…
Study links daily spiritual practices to improved well-being and mental health
A national study conducted by sending text messages to smartphone users demonstrates that consistent spiritual practices can serve as a buffer against depression and boost overall well-being, social scientists say. “This study is unique because it examines daily spiritual experiences…
Trump administration using obscure law to deny entry to immigrants without court process
Federal authorities are using an obscure 1940s law to secretly arrest and deport undocumented immigrants from the U.S., and to terrifying effect. “I know people who are running scared right now,” said Ray Schellinger, global consultant for immigration and refugees…
’Tis the season for a different kind of Advent resource kit
A new Advent resource blends the season’s traditional themes of light and hope with social justice causes — all tied up with the goal of promoting faith and community during the pandemic. The project’s creators, Baptist minister Mary Elizabeth Hanchey…
Even Diana Butler Bass finds it hard to focus these days
Peace has been elusive for Diana Butler Bass in a hostile presidential election season, a disturbing Supreme Court confirmation process and the general mean spiritedness of social media. It’s not that the author of books like Grateful, Broken We Kneel…
Nationwide, twice as many people are hungry during pandemic
Experts predicted food insecurity would skyrocket as the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the nation’s economy. According to those who regularly minister to the poor and hungry, those predictions have turned out to be accurate. “It’s bigger than anything we’ve ever seen,”…
In Lake Charles: Help needed after two hurricanes in six weeks
Being hit by two hurricanes in six weeks has stretched the spiritual and emotional health of many in Lake Charles, La., to the breaking point, according to faith leaders engaged in disaster recovery there. The coastal city was slammed by…
Virginia pastor offers help for churches that don’t want to talk about racism
Martha Dixon Kearse is a preacher whose message on systemic racism and white privilege is disturbing to the very demographic she’s trying to reach: white Christians. “Let’s be up front about the very ugly, very large elephant in the room:…
Border Patrol targets church ministry to immigrants in Arizona
Federal government raids on ministries that serve immigrants along the U.S.-Mexico border may generate outrage and sadness among those who aid “the least of these,” but certainly not surprise. “Intimidation has become the government’s primary tool” in addressing immigrants, refugees…