NEWS OF THE WEEK
Hundreds of scientists, ethicists and policymakers from around the world gathered in Washington this week to discuss guidelines for manipulating human genes through a new technique known as “gene editing.” The technique has the potential to help cure devastating illnesses. … More
A new report from the Leadership Network and the Hartford Institute for Religion Research says while the number of people attending megachurches has increased, worshippers are visiting less often. According to the report, every week about 5 million people attend … More
This week (December 1) marked the 60th anniversary of the Montgomery bus boycott, a pivotal event in the civil rights movement. Religious, community, and political leaders—including Hillary Clinton—gathered in Montgomery, Alabama, to mark the anniversary. The boycott began after activist … More
Hebrew University’s Institute of Archaeology says it has discovered a seal for a papyrus document from the eighth century BC signed by the biblical King Hezekiah. Researchers suspect the clay imprint was made by the king himself. It is believed … More
An Israeli women’s rights organization has asked the country’s high court to strike down a rule that bans women from having access to Torah scrolls at the Western Wall. The Ultra-Orthodox rabbi who administers the wall has banned all visitors … More
Israel’s deputy attorney general this week said that women must be allowed to light candles and say a prayer during official Hanukkah ceremonies at the wall this year. Previously, Hanukkah ceremonies have taken place in the men-only section. The eight-day … More
The Christmas season officially got underway in Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus. The annual procession into town took place, but other activities will be more muted than usual. Palestinian officials asked that the festivities be limited because of the … More
Sunday, December 6th, is St. Nicholas Day, which honors the early Christian saint who many believe was the inspiration for Santa Claus. For Catholics, December 8th is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which celebrates their belief that Mary was … More
Violence, terrorism, and concerns about security continued to dominate the news this week, and world leaders continued wrestling over how to deal with it all. In the wake of Paris and other terrorist attacks, many Islamic minorities in Europe and … More
Religious groups across the theological and political spectrum continued urging politicians not to block Syrian refugees from coming to the US. At a special briefing on Capitol Hill this week, a broad range of faith leaders said the debate over … More
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