Pelosi receives Communion in the Vatican, despite her home archbishop refusing it The head of the church in San Francisco has said the House Speaker can't receive the sacrament there because of her abortion rights support, but Pope Francis has avoided politicizing the Eucharist. The Associated Press
A French city approved burkinis in its pools. Then the backlash came The city of Grenoble's move to allow the full body-covering swimsuit for Islamic women has sparked a legal battle. Activists say it's a matter of civil — and women's — rights. Eleanor Beardsley
Juneteenth is a jubilant celebration — and a sacred lament On Sunday, churchgoers will celebrate Juneteenth during their worship services. Members of the clergy reflect on the role of the church and the holiday marking the notification of the end of slavery. Tekella Foster
Southern Baptists vote to fight sexual abuse and elect a leader eager for change The Southern Baptist Convention offered commitments at its closely watched two-day annual meeting in Anaheim, Calif., to address sexual abuse problems kept hidden for years. Blake Farmer
Florida's new abortion law violates religious freedom, a synagogue's lawsuit says The suit contends the law violates Jewish teachings, which state abortion "is required if necessary to protect the health, mental or physical well-being of the woman" and for other reasons. The Associated Press
Catholic church closures spread in the Northeast and Midwest. Not all are upset Catholic churches are closing and merging in response to dropping participation and giving. It's a trend exacerbated and accelerated by COVID-19 and will affect U.S. worship life for years to come. Adora Namigadde
An upcoming trip by Pope Francis has rumors swirling about his future at the Vatican Italian and Catholic media have been rife with unsourced speculation that the 85-year-old Francis might be planning to follow in his predecessor's footsteps and step down as pope. The Associated Press
Chicago archbishop adds his voice to the calls for gun safety legislation While some cardinals have sidestepped political discussions, Cupich spoke out against gun violence on Twitter hours after the shooting at Robb Elementary School. Rina Torchinsky
It was only 50 years ago this month that the first female rabbi was ordained Female rabbis have become a way of life these days, but Sally Priesand changed the course of women and Judaism when she became the first female rabbi in the United States in June 1972. Deena Prichep
Southern Baptist leaders release a previously secret list of accused sexual abusers In response to an explosive investigation, a list has been released of hundreds of pastors and other church-affiliated personnel accused of abuse. The cases largely span from 2000-2019. The Associated Press
