News & Ideas

Friday's News & Ideas - 12/6/2024

  • Rebirth of the Notre Dame
  • Electric popemobile
  • Woman pastor of historic church
  • Bob Jones abuse report
  • Christians in Aleppo
  • Great abandonment

How Notre-Dame was reborn*
The New York Times: It took about 250 companies, 2,000 workers, about $900 million, a tight deadline and a lot of national pride.

Pope Francis goes electric in new eco-friendly popemobile
NPR: Pope Francis is going electric for the 2025 Jubilee processional, after being gifted an electric G-Class Mercedes-Benz popemobile by the automaker’s chief executive this week.

First woman pastor of historic Mother Bethel AME calls her appointment ‘mind-boggling’
Religion News Service: “Who would have ever thought?” said Cavaness on her 17th day as the 53rd pastor of the church. “It’s such a victory on so many different levels.”

10 years after GRACE abuse report, survivors fear too little has changed at Bob Jones
Religion News Service: Abuse survivors involved in the initial investigation continue to call on the university to prioritize student safety and healing over correction.

Christians in Aleppo fear for their future after Islamist takeover*
The Washington Post: Though the rebels, once affiliated with al-Qaeda, have sought to soften their image in recent years, many worry they will revert to their repressive roots.

The Spark

The great abandonment: What happens to the natural world when people disappear?
Across the globe, vast swathes of land are being left to be reclaimed by nature. To see what could be coming, look to Bulgaria, The Guardian says.

*access is limited for nonsubscribers



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Friday’s News & Ideas - 10/9/2026

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Wednesday’s News & Ideas - 10/7/2026

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Lilly logo

Lilly Endowment Inc. announces Serving Neighbors Initiative

Lilly Endowment Inc. invites eligible charitable organizations to submit concept papers for its Serving Neighbors Through Congregational Collaborations Initiative. The initiative supports efforts to help Christian congregations and local charitable organizations build relationships, identify community priorities, and design lasting collaborations that improve life for individuals and families. Projects might address housing instability, youth opportunities, parks and outdoor recreation, mental health, or other locally identified needs.

Approximately 60 charitable organizations with promising concept papers may receive planning grants of up to $50,000. Those selected may then apply for implementation grants of up to $5 million to carry out their programs.

Concept papers are due by January 19, 2027.

Learn More