Tagged: religion

Religion is changing. In recent years we’ve seen the rise of evangelical and nondenominational churches, and the Internet has turned charismatic religious leaders into celebrities as famous and revered as rock stars. Among them is Pastor Rob Bell, who has captured the attention of millions with his hip look, presentation and inclusive teachings. Some Evangelical Christians consider him “dangerous,” but Time Magazine voted him one of "2011’s Most Influential People." Who is Rob Bell and what does his ministry say about the future of the evangelical and Christian church? We talk with the University of Washington's James Wellman about "Rob Bell and a New American Christianity."

The first same-sex weddings took place in early December in Washington state. Marriage equality has come a long way in Gene Robinson’s lifetime. He was the first only gay person to become a bishop in the historic traditions of Christendom — and he wore a bulletproof vest to his 2003 consecration.

Today, he’s one of the world’s leading spokespeople for gay rights and gay marriage, and he has been married to a man for the last four years. Robinson spoke at Seattle’s Town Hall on December 7, 2012.

This time of year, Christmas lights add color to the night. Candles are lit to celebrate Hanukkah, "the festival of lights.” The world's major religions each use light to represent big ideas. The Interfaith Amigos join us to explain the religious meaning of light.

Prayer takes many forms. Some are ritual, others informal. For generations, religious parishioners have wondered if there is a right way to pray. Writer Anne Lamott ("Some Assembly Required," "Plan B," "Traveling Mercies") believes that prayer comes in three essential types: help, thanks and wow. She joins us to talk about how these simple prayers guide her life.