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Serving God and Senate
By David Waters E.W. Jackson, a Virginian who identifies himself as the bishop of a nondemoninational church called Exodus Faith Ministries International, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate. A press release from Jackson's campaign says he is seeking...
By David Waters | April 17, 2011; 06:34 PM ET | Comments (0)
Anti-sharia laws: Legislating religiosity
Anti-sharia legislators in Alabama and Tennessee seem to be racing each other to the U.S. Supreme Court.
By David Waters | March 6, 2011; 01:57 PM ET | Comments (13)
Judicial cross examination
Another court ruling has saved another cross, but is the judicial system secularizing a sacred object?
By David Waters | February 11, 2011; 09:06 PM ET | Comments (10)
Another brick in the wall of separation?
Women sue school district for rejecting their fundraising bricks containing Bible verses. Another brick in wall of separation?
By David Waters | February 1, 2011; 09:30 AM ET | Comments (5)
Joel Osteen: 'Homosexuality is a sin'
Asked point blank about homosexuality by the eponymous host of Piers Morgan Tonight, Osteen was forced to address an issue that he'd just as soon avoid. Known for his focus on uplifting Christian messages and ability to stay away from controversial social and political issues, Texas megapastor Joel Osteen has found himself in the headlines this week for telling CNN's Piers Morgan that homosexuality is a sin.
By Elizabeth Tenety | January 25, 2011; 10:00 AM ET | Comments (484)
Big Love and polygamy in Canada
As HBO's "Big Love" enters its final season, real-life plural marriage goes on trial in Canada.
By David Waters | January 18, 2011; 07:15 AM ET | Comments (2)
Televangelist investigation: What is a church? Who is a minister? Should the tax man decide?
Senator's investigation of multi-million-dollar ministries raises unsettling questions about what is a church and who is a minister.
By David Waters | January 9, 2011; 02:34 PM ET | Comments (60)
What the Most Admired list says about us
Do we admire religious leaders because of their faith or because of their celebrity?
By David Waters | December 30, 2010; 12:46 PM ET | Comments (5)
Atheists and believers get kicked off the bus
Fort Worth transit board kicks atheist and Christian ads off the bus. Do believers or nonbelievers really think that a slogan on the side of a bus would persuade anyone to believe or not believe in God?
By David Waters | December 17, 2010; 08:34 PM ET | Comments (138)
Filthy Faithfully rich
More billionaires are giving it all to charity. Have the uber-rich found religion?
By David Waters | December 10, 2010; 11:44 PM ET | Comments (41)
The God Vote: 'Sacrilege' at the National Portrait Gallery
"I suspect that if Christ were alive today he would say, 'If you want to find God, minister to those who are suffering and dying from AIDS." -Rep. Jim Moran (D-Va.)
By Elizabeth Tenety | December 9, 2010; 01:48 PM ET | Comments (2)
Apple zaps conservative Christian app
How should Apple decide which faith-based views are offensive to too many people?
By David Waters | December 3, 2010; 06:09 PM ET | Comments (44)
'Naughty and Nice' retailers? Check it twice
Does the Liberty Counsel's "Naughty and Nice" list of retailers reward those who commercialize the holy day?
By David Waters | November 24, 2010; 04:30 PM ET | Comments (13)
A digital reformation?
Catholic bishop tells brothers to "enculturate" in digital world. Does the church just want to be 'liked'?
By David Waters | November 21, 2010; 09:30 PM ET | Comments (5)
Islam (and reason) on trial in Tennessee
Mosque construction challenged on grounds that Islam is not a religion.
By David Waters | November 12, 2010; 08:39 PM ET | Comments (122)
Merchants of menace
Fear-of-Islam peddlers padding their pockets, making millions on Islamophobia. In these paranoid times, it's a seller's market.
By David Waters | November 5, 2010; 09:50 PM ET | Comments (87)
Christians rallying for Halloween sanity
Happy Halloween -- or not, depending on whether you believe Linus's favorite holiday is the work of the devil or merely our childlike imaginations.
By David Waters | October 30, 2010; 11:47 AM ET | Comments (4)
Separation of president and creator
What's a Jesus-worshipping, yarmulke-wearing, mosque-supporting, Sikh-temple-avoiding President to do in these hyperbolic, hypersensitive times?
By David Waters | October 21, 2010; 07:52 PM ET | Comments (119)
Faith-based political follies
The faith-based initiative, pushed by Democrats and Republicans, is a noble concept, but ultimately a flawed one, regardless of which party in power is trying to use it to serve its own agenda.
By David Waters | October 17, 2010; 05:09 PM ET | Comments (17)
Should we worship in black and white?
Are the divisions among Christians merely a reflection of the divisions in our larger society, or are they the cause of those divisions?
By David Waters | October 8, 2010; 09:26 AM ET | Comments (1)
Pulpit fiction
Do preachers defy the IRS -- or merely their calling -- by talking politics from the pulpit?
By David Waters | September 28, 2010; 06:44 PM ET | Comments (10)
Texas school board fights Islamic bias with Christian bias
Does the Texas state board of education have a pro-Christian or anti-Muslim bias? Should we have to worry about the pro- or anti-religious biases of duly elected or appointed public officials?
By David Waters | September 24, 2010; 09:46 PM ET | Comments (26)
Should Christians practice yoga? Shouldn't everyone?
Should Christians practice yoga? If it reduces stress, shouldn't every religious person practice yoga?
By David Waters | September 23, 2010; 06:31 PM ET | Comments (110)
Onward Christian voters?
In a democratic society, under a republican form of government, should there be such a thing as a Christian voter? Aren't we all "values voters."
By David Waters | September 21, 2010; 06:39 PM ET | Comments (16)
Christian Right's tea party?
Delaware's Christine O'Donnell's election and other signs that the tea party and Christian Right are doing more than breaking bread together.
By David Waters | September 16, 2010; 04:13 PM ET | Comments (51)
Bishop quotes Bush to quell Islamophobia
Nashville bishop quotes Jesus and George W. Bush to quell Islamophobia. Is anyone listening to mainstream religious leaders?
By David Waters | September 13, 2010; 03:16 PM ET | Comments (6)
Church welcomes new neighbor, a mosque
A Tennessee congregation shows Islamophobes how to overcome fear and ignorance with faith and hospitality.
By David Waters | September 7, 2010; 10:05 AM ET | Comments (9)
Blagojevich: My fate is 'in God's hands'
Blago's eternal fate may be in God's hands, but the jury will decide what to do with him in the meantime. Where was common sense and decency when the governor told associates that Obama's empty senate seat "Is a f---ing valuable thing, you just don't give it away for nothing"? Why does it take a crisis for some people to get religion?
By Elizabeth Tenety | July 28, 2010; 04:05 PM ET | Comments (10)
Is God a Republican?
God has been speaking mostly to Republicans when it comes to the call to serve in public office.
By Elizabeth Tenety | July 14, 2010; 03:58 PM ET | Comments (170)
Defacing the Pledge of Allegiance (again?)
Billboard vandals add 'Under God' to original Pledge of Allegiance. Didn't Congress already do that in 1954?
By David Waters | June 29, 2010; 12:51 PM ET | Comments (22)
More sin and salvation at the Southern Baptist Convention
Southern Baptists wrestle with corporate and personal sin -- and denominational salvation.
By David Waters | June 24, 2010; 11:05 AM ET | Comments (2)
Cry, the beloved (and belabored) vuvuzela
Africans are rising up to defend the vuvuzela's relentless buzzing in spiritual terms.
By David Waters | June 18, 2010; 12:03 PM ET | Comments (28)
Holy gangsters
Some gang members are wearing the rosary to denote rank and affiliation. Hail Mary, full of grace...
By David Waters | June 15, 2010; 03:42 PM ET | Comments (43)
Presbyterian report condemns Israeli policies in Palestinian territories
Presbyterians will be asked to approve a report that strongly condemns Israeli policies in Palestinian territories.
By David Waters | June 11, 2010; 02:12 PM ET | Comments (11)
Nikki Haley's confession of faith
Even in 2010, political candidates feel compelled to prove their Christian bona fides.
By David Waters | June 9, 2010; 02:45 PM ET | Comments (179)
Ted Turner's oil spill theology
Media mogul Ted Turner sees the oil spill -- and other recent fossil fuel-related calamities -- as God's way of telling us to stop exploiting his creation.
By David Waters | June 1, 2010; 03:50 PM ET | Comments (6)
Harry Reid vs. Westboro Church
Why is a Nevada senator involving himself in a Pennsylvania family's case against a Kansas church?
By David Waters | May 27, 2010; 02:30 PM ET | Comments (0)
Jesus prayer opens Texas textbook meeting
Board member's prayer promotes America as 'a Christian land governed by Christian principles.'
By David Waters | May 21, 2010; 01:23 PM ET | Comments (15)
Final exam for American history textbooks in Texas
The Texas Board of Education is considering today a number of final revisions to its social studies curriculum.
By David Waters | May 20, 2010; 12:04 PM ET | Comments (1)
Who stole Mojave cross?
Who would steal a cross -- especially one that has become so visible?
By David Waters | May 11, 2010; 01:40 PM ET | Comments (74)
The Franklin Graham Crusade
Pentagon's disinvitation to him was 'slap in face to all evangelicals,' but aren't his views a 'slap in face' to all Muslims?
By David Waters | May 4, 2010; 12:12 PM ET | Comments (274)
God save the church
How did the counterculture, anti-establishment, revolutionary Body of Christ become 'part of the furniture' in Britain?
By David Waters | May 3, 2010; 12:56 PM ET | Comments (8)
Virginia's new policy on prayer policy
If you reverse an official state policy on prayer with another state policy on prayer, it's still a state policy on prayer, right?
By David Waters | April 30, 2010; 12:08 PM ET | Comments (69)
Palin's Christian nation
A majority of Americans seem to agree with Sarah Palin that the U.S. is a 'Christian nation.' But what does that mean?
By David Waters | April 21, 2010; 12:57 PM ET | Comments (525)
Free exercise of religious discrimination
Supreme Court hears case that pits school's anti-discrimination rules against religious student group's right to discriminate.
By David Waters | April 19, 2010; 03:10 PM ET | Comments (10)
Dr. Benjamin Hooks: 'A Christian first'
Rev. Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks, who died Thursday, should be remembered, as a man who worked for Jesus and for justice -- as a civil rights leader, an African-American pioneer, as an attorney and judge, but first and foremost as a Christian.
By David Waters | April 15, 2010; 12:25 PM ET | Comments (5)
Uncivil for church leader to remove his name from civility statement?
Church leader signs civility statement, then removes his name when he sees names of other church leaders who signed it.
By David Waters | April 14, 2010; 02:14 PM ET | Comments (5)
Time for an atheist on the Supreme Court?
Should someone who doesn't believe in a Supreme Being be on the Supreme Court?
By David Waters | April 13, 2010; 09:59 AM ET | Comments (55)
Church re-enlisting in anti-nuke campaign
Two decades ago, the church led the 'No Nukes' movement. Can a new generation of religious leaders restart the effort?
By David Waters | April 11, 2010; 05:08 PM ET | Comments (7)
And then there were none (Protestants on the Supreme Court)
For the first time ever, the U.S. Supreme Court might not include a Protestant. Does it matter?
By David Waters | April 9, 2010; 12:02 PM ET | Comments (44)
Tweet justice for Glenn Beck?
Social justice group plans to unleash 'Twitterstorm' against Glenn Beck.
By David Waters | April 6, 2010; 05:41 PM ET | Comments (290)
The C Street evangelical dorm
Ethics group complains about C Street house
By David Waters | April 6, 2010; 03:35 PM ET | Comments (2)
NCAA championship: Methodists vs. Christians
Butler and Duke have more in common than great basketball teams. Both schools have religious roots.
By David Waters | April 5, 2010; 04:15 PM ET | Comments (15)
It's Good Friday, even in Iowa
A government plot to replace Good Friday with Spring Holiday? Not.
By David Waters | April 2, 2010; 11:41 AM ET | Comments (2)
The church that hates dead soldiers
A slain Marine's family has been ordered to pay courts costs to an anti-gay church that protested during his funeral.
By David Waters | March 31, 2010; 04:22 PM ET | Comments (124)
Rewriting God and country
Are religious beliefs of Texas school board members rewriting American history or merely correcting it?
By David Waters | March 23, 2010; 04:08 PM ET | Comments (16)
Catholic sisters challenge bishops on abortion, health reform
U.S. Catholic sisters urge Congress to pass health reform, and directly challenge bishops' qualms on abortion.
By David Waters | March 17, 2010; 04:02 PM ET | Comments (49)
The God of the Ninth Circuit
Court rules that Pledge phrase 'under God' is patriotic, not religious. Should people of faith celebrate or mourn?
By David Waters | March 16, 2010; 01:13 PM ET | Comments (19)
The classroom wall of separation
Public school teachers can't display a Crucifix in the classroom, but what about a photo of Gandhi or the phrase "In God We Trust"?
By David Waters | March 4, 2010; 01:40 PM ET | Comments (105)
Congressmen, tax collectors and Jesus
The C Street house in D.C. clearly is a Christian community, but should it qualify as a tax-exempt church?
By David Waters | March 1, 2010; 03:23 PM ET | Comments (60)
Does Wall of Separation extend overseas?
Does church-state separation apply to the U.S. government's foreign policies and overseas assistance programs?
By David Waters | February 25, 2010; 12:44 PM ET | Comments (81)
American foreign policy's God gap
An independent two-year study recommends that the U.S. government make religion "an integral part of our foreign policy."
By David Waters | February 23, 2010; 12:00 PM ET | Comments (23)
When the Salvation Army enlists in the government
N.Y. government agencies to monitor Salvation Army's 'religious' use of tax dollars. Should state oversee church?
By David Waters | February 18, 2010; 03:27 PM ET | Comments (73)
Posting God's laws on government property
Either the Ten Commandments are historically significant enough to be displayed on government property, or they aren't.
By David Waters | February 17, 2010; 03:13 PM ET | Comments (143)
Will Christian Right join the Tea Party?
Will Tea Partying fiscal conservatives make room for the Christian Right's social conservatives? Should they?
By David Waters | February 10, 2010; 02:41 PM ET | Comments (135)
Obama's faith-based inertia
Left and right find fault with Obama's faith-based inertia. Does his faith-based initiative have a prayer?
By David Waters | February 9, 2010; 01:00 PM ET | Comments (12)
The Tebow ad you didn't see
Why did Focus on the Family choose to air the funnier Tebow ad, rather than the more direct one?
By David Waters | February 8, 2010; 09:02 AM ET | Comments (94)
Hooray for Holywood
Are Oscar-nominated "Best Pictures" also most spiritual? Depends which faith-based reality you inhabit.
By David Waters | February 2, 2010; 01:17 PM ET | Comments (10)
Tebow and other pro-life football giants
Two pro-life videos two decades apart, both with football stars, show the pro-life movement's shift from rhetoric to real life.
By David Waters | February 1, 2010; 12:25 PM ET | Comments (5)
Religion lobby pushes legislation, not reconciliation
Religious groups preaching to their choirs on health reform. Could they play a more productive role in partisan wars?
By David Waters | January 28, 2010; 10:42 AM ET | Comments (4)
Bible references on U.S. gun sights?
A defense contractor encodes New Testament references on rifle sights. Imagine the uproar if it were the Qur'an.
By David Waters | January 19, 2010; 11:56 AM ET | Comments (149)
Haiti, the devil and Pat Robertson
Pat Robertson blames Haiti's 'pact with devil' for quake. Is it time to stop paying attention to Pat Robertson?
By David Waters | January 13, 2010; 03:01 PM ET | Comments (786)
Archbishop dies in Haiti quake; relief efforts underway
Haiti quake reportedly kills archbishop; relief efforts underway.
By David Waters | January 13, 2010; 10:35 AM ET | Comments (1)
The 'Lost' Supper or da Vinci?
What's your favorite version of The Last Supper? Lost? Sopranos? Battlestar Galactica? Da Vinci? VOTE NOW.
By David Waters | January 7, 2010; 02:21 AM ET | Comments (41)
Elvis at 75: Long live the king
Elvis's rock and roll roots are in the church. Does that explain dead Elvis devotion? Will Michael Jackson's fans be so devoted 30 years from now?
By David Waters | January 6, 2010; 12:43 PM ET | Comments (48)
Baby Jesus, poster child for the 2010 Census?
Poster to encourage Latinos to participate in 2010 Census features Joseph and pregnant Mary. Effective or offensive?
By David Waters | December 17, 2009; 11:14 AM ET | Comments (40)
Making room for wise men
Court order puts winter solstice tribute to wise men and women next to nativity scene at Arkansas Capitol.
By David Waters | December 16, 2009; 10:22 AM ET | Comments (5)
Oral Roberts and his place in American religious history
Was Oral Roberts the most important American religious figure of the 20th century?
By David Waters | December 15, 2009; 04:47 PM ET | Comments (12)
N.C. law rejects atheists; voters don't
North Carolina's constitution says an atheist can't hold public office. Atheist Cecil Bothwell was elected anyway.
By David Waters | December 9, 2009; 01:17 PM ET | Comments (22)
Uganda's anti-gay law riles U.S.
Episcopal, other U.S. clergy speak out against anti-gay legislation in Uganda. Is it their business?
By David Waters | December 7, 2009; 12:24 PM ET | Comments (139)
In divorce, who gets kids to church?
Indiana custody case raises question: What happens when divorced parents disagree about taking kids to church?
By David Waters | December 3, 2009; 12:21 PM ET | Comments (17)
Huckabee's mercy misplaced?
Was Huckabee acting as governor or pastor when he commuted the sentence of Washington murder suspect?
By David Waters | November 30, 2009; 05:09 PM ET | Comments (103)
T-shirt (or car tag) theology
Groups push to evangelize on school T-shirts and state car tags. Is this about theology or theocracy?
By David Waters | November 27, 2009; 01:39 PM ET | Comments (46)
Bishops as marriage experts
Should we care what 200-plus single and presumably celibate men think about marriage, divorce and 'conjugal love'?
By David Waters | November 19, 2009; 03:18 AM ET | Comments (85)
"2012" a theological disaster?
Should Hollywood destroy the Vatican but not Mecca? Should blockbusters be theologically correct? Religiously neutral?
By David Waters | November 16, 2009; 01:58 PM ET | Comments (115)
The Archdiocese's ultimatum
Catholic Church threatens to quit the poor and hungry in bid to alter same-sex bill. Bad theology or just politics?
By David Waters | November 12, 2009; 09:50 AM ET | Comments (281)
Evangelical (over)reaction to Hasan
Bar Muslims from the military? One evangelical's view does not reflect the beliefs of most American evangelicals.
By David Waters | November 10, 2009; 01:32 PM ET | Comments (19)
Stupid Halloween tricks
Pro-life pumpkins. Pro-choice costumes. The culture war between pro-life and pro-choice finds another front: Halloween.
By David Waters | October 30, 2009; 04:14 PM ET | Comments (19)
Kennedy vs. Catholic bishops
Rep. Patrick Kennedy questions bishops' 'pro-life' commitment to social justice and health-care reform. Huh?
By David Waters | October 26, 2009; 12:50 PM ET | Comments (202)
Tweetoff: 'No God' v. 'Know God'
For a short time on Twitter last week, the No. 1 trending topic was "No God." Is nothing sacred?
By David Waters | October 23, 2009; 04:11 PM ET | Comments (7)
Sacriligious gopher
Was Goldy the Gopher mocking a Penn State player's pre-game prayer, or merely mimicking in good fun?
By David Waters | October 21, 2009; 01:16 PM ET | Comments (28)
Sell the Vatican, feed the world?
Should Christians seriously consider comedian Sarah Silverman's financial and theological advise to the Pope?
By David Waters | October 16, 2009; 02:04 PM ET | Comments (89)
Hating the Hate Crimes Bill
Religious conservatives fear the hate crimes bill would criminalize their views of the Bible. They're wrong.
By David Waters | October 13, 2009; 12:05 PM ET | Comments (119)
God's Liberal (or Conservative) Bias
Conservative Bible Project aims to Wiki the 'liberal bias' out of God's word. Aren't we all reading a biased Bible?
By David Waters | October 8, 2009; 01:13 PM ET | Comments (124)
Friday Night Acolytes
Cheerleaders told not to raise Bible banners at football games. Are they being evangelistic or just enthusiastic?
By David Waters | October 2, 2009; 02:24 PM ET | Comments (143)
Praying for Liberals
Conservative Christians urged to 'adopt a liberal' and start praying for him or her. Compassion or condescension?
By David Waters | September 30, 2009; 12:22 PM ET | Comments (393)
Origin of the Specious
Former TV star and born-again Creationist Kirk Cameron takes on Darwin's "deceptions" with a few of his own.
By David Waters | September 25, 2009; 12:34 PM ET | Comments (286)
Signs and Wonders: Hello, Dalai?
By David Waters The Dalai Lama smiled and giggled when interim Memphis Mayor Myron Lowery offered him a welcoming fist-bump and "Hello, Dalai" this week. I found an old quote that might tell us what His Holiness was thinking: "Sometimes...
By David Waters | September 24, 2009; 02:55 AM ET | Comments (2)
'Values Voter Summit' or GOP Rally?
Have the tax-exempt groups behind the 'Values Voter Summit' gotten too cozy with the Republican Party?
By David Waters | September 22, 2009; 03:33 PM ET | Comments (28)
Praying for Glenn Beck
If Red State Christians and Blue State Christians can pray for the same person, that's progress, right?
By David Waters | September 18, 2009; 02:54 PM ET | Comments (77)
Say Grace, Go to Jail?
Florida principal faces contempt charges for prayer request at school function. Is this as ridiculous as it sounds?
By David Waters | September 17, 2009; 11:15 AM ET | Comments (114)
Judging Amanda
Court orders home-schooled girl with "rigid adherence to her mother's beliefs" to attend public school.
By David Waters | September 11, 2009; 02:03 PM ET | Comments (134)
Wednesday Night Lights
Did school officials drop the ball when a high school coach took his team to Wednesday night worship?
By David Waters | September 8, 2009; 01:35 PM ET | Comments (77)
Political Altar Egos
Gov. Bobby Jindal crosses the line between politicking and preaching. Should elected officials evangelize?
By David Waters | September 4, 2009; 02:38 PM ET | Comments (160)
Bob McDonnell, GOD and the GOP
His 1989 thesis is a clear expression of the conservative evangelical view of society's God-ordained institutions.
By David Waters | September 2, 2009; 04:37 PM ET | Comments (135)
Jack Bauer's Health-Care Reform
U.S. churches not as clear as their Canadian counterparts -- or Kiefer Sutherland's grandpa -- about health reform.
By David Waters | August 29, 2009; 11:52 AM ET | Comments (125)
Florida's Hurricane Charlie
Florida's governor suggests God is protecting his state from hurricanes. Statement of faith or political pandering?
By David Waters | August 24, 2009; 04:25 PM ET | Comments (78)
Mercy for a Mass Murderer?
Scotland releases terminally ill Lockerbie bomber so he can die in Libya. Mercy is biblical, but is it right?
By David Waters | August 20, 2009; 10:32 AM ET | Comments (314)
Jesus and His App-ostles
Seattle church debuts its iPhone app. Cool. But what might be lost if worship becomes just another download?
By David Waters | August 18, 2009; 02:49 PM ET | Comments (44)
Separation of Church and Flag
Confederate flag causes church group to boycott S.C., but is any institution more segregated than the Church?
By David Waters | August 13, 2009; 04:40 PM ET | Comments (68)
The Gods of Global Climate Change
Swiss villagers who prayed for less glacier now praying for more. Global warming is God's problem?
By David Waters | August 12, 2009; 03:56 PM ET | Comments (4)
Obama Is Not the Antichrist
A video coyly suggesting that Obama may be the Antichrist is disturbing, over-the-top and, above all, wrong.
By John Mark Reynolds | August 7, 2009; 04:26 PM ET | Comments (125)
The Town Hall Demolition Derby
When the public square of any community is assaulted by orchestrated chaos, what happens to trust?
By Susan Brooks Thistlethwaite | August 5, 2009; 09:59 AM ET | Comments (42)
Islam's Immigrant Image
Europeans are criticizing Muslims for changing European culture. Haven't we heard that charge leveled at every immigrant group, ever?
By Gustav Niebuhr | August 3, 2009; 12:10 PM ET | Comments (5)
Twilight's Flawed Faith
The popular books and movie put too much faith in romance. As people of faith know, romantic love is not true love.
By John Mark Reynolds | July 31, 2009; 12:30 AM ET | Comments (75)
Protestant Work Ethic in China
The Chinese believe Protestant Christian values have been key to West's economic development.
By Susan Brooks Thistlethwaite | July 28, 2009; 10:11 PM ET | Comments (12)
The Decline of the Species
In certain politicians, we're seeing evidence emerge that human beings are regressing -- de-evolving, if you will.
By Gustav Niebuhr | July 27, 2009; 12:25 PM ET | Comments (8)
Time to Refresh and Reboot
While I refresh and reboot, three distinguished On Faith panelists will be keeping an eye on religion in the news.
By David Waters | July 23, 2009; 11:25 AM ET | Comments (0)
First Communion on the Moon
Was NASA right to stop Buzz Aldrin was broadcasting his personal communion service on the moon?
By David Waters | July 20, 2009; 04:42 PM ET | Comments (104)
Oregon's Fashion Police
Should your child's teacher wear a turban, a hijab or other "religious dress'? The state of Oregon doesn't think so.
By David Waters | July 17, 2009; 03:17 PM ET | Comments (194)
Loving Harry, Hogwarts and All
Christian reviews of the Harry Potter movie are surprisingly positive, as they should be for the Christian-themed series.
By David Waters | July 16, 2009; 03:52 PM ET | Comments (79)
Separation of Church and State Party
British Methodists ban members of a 'racist' political party from joining the church. Good theology or PC theocracy?
By David Waters | July 10, 2009; 03:34 PM ET | Comments (91)
Wafergate
Did Canada's Protestant Prime Minister pocket the Body of Christ at a Catholic funeral mass? Does it matter?
By David Waters | July 9, 2009; 02:53 PM ET | Comments (198)
Michael Jackson's Sabbath Rest
The pop icon's childhood Sabbaths stayed with him, and made him long for 'sharing a day with God.'
By David Waters | July 7, 2009; 10:48 AM ET | Comments (28)
Christian Right Revival?
Similar cast, same script. Social conservatives touting new Freedom Federation, but is it just a rerun?
By David Waters | July 2, 2009; 05:26 PM ET | Comments (157)
When Doctrine Trumps the Gospel
Church youth group's mission to help the poor another casualty of Southern Baptist doctrinal battles.
By David Waters | July 1, 2009; 11:52 AM ET | Comments (8)
Huckabee and God GOP
2012 GOP hopeful makes the most of his Southern Baptist audience, but was he being political or pastoral?
By David Waters | June 26, 2009; 06:32 PM ET | Comments (74)
Political Equality Returns to Liberty
Liberty University's student Democrats club will be granted the same status as Liberty's student Republicans club. That status? Unofficial.
By David Waters | June 26, 2009; 02:04 PM ET | Comments (0)
Southern Baptists Oust Church
Annual meeting rejects 125-year-old congregation that put photos of gay members in its church directory.
By David Waters | June 23, 2009; 11:33 AM ET | Comments (136)
Jon Stewart, Daily Prophet?
He's funny and provocative, but is Jon Stewart a prophet? Jim Wallis thinks so. What do you think?
By David Waters | June 19, 2009; 03:04 PM ET | Comments (178)
PBS' Sectarian Neighborhoods
PBS bans future religious programs, but what about its three religious affiliates? Should sectarian groups run public TV stations?
By David Waters | June 17, 2009; 04:03 PM ET | Comments (57)
A Faith-Friendly Communist Party
Communist Party USA "welcomes people of faith." Given the history of godless communism, it could be a tough sell.
By David Waters | June 16, 2009; 01:41 PM ET | Comments (36)
SBC's Obama Dilemma
Would it be hypocritical of the Southern Baptist Convention to congratulate Obama, or hypocritical not to?
By David Waters | June 12, 2009; 03:36 PM ET | Comments (92)
Cross of '09
Prayerful graduation ceremony at a Florida high school pits students vs. court. But not really.
By David Waters | June 11, 2009; 02:47 PM ET | Comments (93)
Gingrich's Move to the (Religious) Right
Can Newt Gingrich outflank Sarah Palin and Mike Huckabee on the Republican Party's religious right?
By David Waters | June 9, 2009; 02:27 PM ET | Comments (235)
Responsible Gun and Bell Ownership
What does it say when one pastor can brings guns to church, and another is told to silence his church bells?
By David Waters | June 6, 2009; 09:50 AM ET | Comments (21)
Democracy at Liberty
Squabble over Democrats club at Liberty University has turned into a tax exemption battle. But it really is about liberty.
By David Waters | June 2, 2009; 04:15 PM ET | Comments (246)
The Code Enforcer from Hell
Code enforcer cites couple for holding Bible study in their home. Overreaction or over-regulation?
By David Waters | June 1, 2009; 04:02 PM ET | Comments (15)
AIG, Sharia and Uncle Sam
A federal judge's ruling adds a troubling religious dimension to an already troubling economic crisis.
By David Waters | May 28, 2009; 03:01 PM ET | Comments (28)
Is She Catholic? Does It Matter?
Questions about Supreme Court nominee's Catholicism puts Church's diversity, identity debate on display.
By David Waters | May 27, 2009; 09:35 AM ET | Comments (90)
Faith Healing or Child Abuse?
What should the government do when parents rely on faith rather than medicine to heal sick children?
By David Waters | May 22, 2009; 12:58 PM ET | Comments (178)
Christian Factor in 'Idol' Upset
The American Idol showdown between Kris and Adam had Christians taking sides. A sign of the Apocalypse? Still time to cast your vote.
By David Waters | May 20, 2009; 02:31 PM ET | Comments (67)
Holy War, Pentagon Style
Bible verses used on Iraq War briefings raise questions about the level of evangelical fervor in the U.S. military.
By David Waters | May 18, 2009; 04:14 PM ET | Comments (95)
Angels & Demons & Disclaimers
Some religious groups offended by newest Hollywood blockbuster, but are summer movies really a threat to the faithful?
By David Waters | May 13, 2009; 02:37 AM ET | Comments (153)
Miss CA: Devil-Tested, Donald-Approved
Other than Donald Trump, no one has been more forgiving of Carrie Prejean's indiscretions than the Christian Right.
By David Waters | May 12, 2009; 02:01 PM ET | Comments (1)
Father Cutié's Indulgences
Dismissed Florida priest makes a clear if indiscreet case to end priestly celibacy. Does he have a point?
By David Waters | May 8, 2009; 03:24 PM ET | Comments (187)
Palin, Prejean and Pre-Marital Ambivalence
We applaud the teen mom, criticize the sexy teenage model and mostly ignore the pandemic of illegitimacy.
By David Waters | May 6, 2009; 02:16 PM ET | Comments (238)
Christian Soldiers or Crusaders?
Military denies some zealous U.S. soldiers are trying to convert Afghans to Christianity, but is there cause for concern?
By David Waters | May 5, 2009; 01:07 PM ET | Comments (22)
Honk if You Love Jesus Car Tags
State senator tried to add the image of the Crucified Christ to Florida car tags. Should your government evangelize?
By David Waters | May 4, 2009; 11:06 AM ET | Comments (13)
Swine Flu at Church: Fear Not?
Church leaders are issuing words of caution and, in some cases, new guidelines for communion, worship.
By David Waters | April 30, 2009; 02:19 PM ET | Comments (70)
The Market Cost of Discipleship
Conflict over compensation for Riverside Church's new pastor. How much should Christian ministers be paid?
By David Waters | April 30, 2009; 04:34 AM ET | Comments (42)
Touched by an Angelina (Jolie)
News that the Holy Family (Brangelina) has taken a pilgrimage in Long Island is cause for spiritual reflection.
By David Waters | April 30, 2009; 12:49 AM ET | Comments (7)
Xavier Joins Notre Dame on Bishops' Boycott List
Should Catholic bishops do more to resist "intrinsic evil" or abortion than send their regrets?
By David Waters | April 25, 2009; 04:28 PM ET | Comments (13)
Miss California Controversy
What's more offensive? What Miss California said about gay marriage or that so many people care?
By David Waters | April 22, 2009; 11:39 AM ET | Comments (400)
God and Country Don't Mix at School
Judge tells school to remove the song "In God We Still Trust" from school program, lectures parents on constitution.
By David Waters | April 21, 2009; 01:23 PM ET | Comments (11)
Teaching Religion (Still) OK in Okla.
Oklahoma bill lets teachers to do what they already are allowed to do: Discuss religious content of historical events and documents.
By David Waters | April 17, 2009; 01:48 PM ET | Comments (14)
Praying for Theocracy in Okla.
"May only believers in God lead our democracy," says Baptist pastor in Oklahoma legislative prayer.
By David Waters | April 16, 2009; 12:29 PM ET | Comments (34)
Christian America and Fox Populi
Fox News populism, and other signs that Christianity in America is becoming more reactionary and exclusive.
By David Waters | April 14, 2009; 02:08 PM ET | Comments (88)
In-Vitro Immortality
Grieving mom wants dead son "to live on." So she harvests his sperm and talks about creating her own grandchildren.
By Elizabeth Tenety | April 9, 2009; 08:52 PM ET | Comments (3)
Introducing Barack Obama, Christian
Fewer than half of those surveyed were able to identify President Obama's religion. Do we just not test well?
By David Waters | April 3, 2009; 11:17 AM ET | Comments (79)
God's Will for Michael Steele
A Catholic bishop is boycotting him, but Michael Steele fears not. God has his back.
By David Waters | March 27, 2009; 03:33 PM ET | Comments (121)
In God We Tweet
Televangelist Robert H. Schuller is the latest celebrity victim of an imposter Twitterer -- or is it a Twit? Would Jesus tweet?
By David Waters | March 26, 2009; 11:03 AM ET | Comments (14)
Graduation Speech or Sermon?
Court dismisses complaint by high school student whose graduation speech ran afoul of school censors when it became a sermon.
By David Waters | March 25, 2009; 03:12 PM ET | Comments (29)
Court Rules AA Not "Religious"
Court rules zoning board can regulate location of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings because AA lacks a "religious purpose." Objection.
By David Waters | March 20, 2009; 12:59 PM ET | Comments (60)
'God' Banned in Boca
Hospice chaplain quits after CEO tells her not use the words 'God' or 'Lord' in public settings.
By David Waters | March 18, 2009; 05:15 PM ET | Comments (38)
Stem Cell Battle Begins in Georgia
Georgia legislators are lining up to declare embryos as persons, legalize their adoption.
By David Waters | March 16, 2009; 10:28 AM ET | Comments (45)
