Biden awards Medal of Freedom to Denzel Washington, Simone Biles, John McCain The 17 recipients include athletes, artists, and leaders of the civil rights and labor movements. Barbara Sprunt
A Georgia monument, seen by some as satanic, was damaged from a predawn explosion The roadside attraction was built in 1980 from local granite, commissioned by an unknown person or group under the pseudonym R.C. Christian. The Associated Press
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
