NEWS OF THE WEEK
The US, European Union, Russia, and Ukraine hammered out an agreement this week that attempts to deescalate tensions in Ukraine. The plan calls for pro-Russian militias to surrender government buildings and urges all sides to refrain from violence. It also … More
In Syria, more intense fighting this week as government forces stepped up their offensive on rebel-held territories, including an ancient Christian town along the Lebanese border, Maaloula. A number of historic Christian sites were significantly damaged in the fighting, including … More
Bahai’s around the world celebrate the festival of Ridvan (April 21-May2). The 12-day holiday commemorates the Prophet Baha’u’llah’s announcement in 1863 that he was the new messenger of God. It’s the most important season for Christians: Easter (April 20), celebrating … More
Have you voted for us yet in the Webby People’s Voice Awards? We’ve been nominated for the prestigious award honoring the best work done on the Web, and you can help us win it by voting for us online. The … More
Violence was a prominent theme this week. At the Vatican, Pope Francis called for prayers about the conflict in Syria. He urged Syrian leaders to “silence the weapons” and “put an end to the violence.” He made the remarks while … More
Faith leaders addressed violence on several fronts in the US. Prayer vigils were held in Pennsylvania for victims of Wednesday’s stabbing rampage at a high school near Pittsburgh. A sixteen-year-old student was taken into custody after wounding 22 people.
At a conference in Oklahoma City, representatives of the Episcopal Church denounced what they called the “epidemic of violence” and discussed ways to foster peace. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby spoke. It was his first official visit to the US … More
Masses and other solemn ceremonies were held to mark the 20th anniversary of the genocide in Rwanda. Violence swept Rwanda in 1994 when Hutus attacked Tutsis and moderate Hutus, leaving nearly a million dead. The anniversary was also an occasion … More
Pope Francis had some strong words about the clergy sex abuse crisis. He said he felt called to personally take responsibility for the evil some priests committed. He asked for forgiveness and promised that the church will not retreat on … More
Four presidents, civil rights icons, and religious leaders gathered at a three-day summit in Austin to mark the 50th anniversary of the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Former President Jimmy Carter was among the speakers. He said … More