Friday's News & Ideas - 3/31/2023

Founded among differences, Covenant Presbyterian and its school now a focus of unity*
Tennessean: Once a reminder of the differences between local faith communities, Covenant Presbyterian Church and its school are now a focus of togetherness
Religion News Service: Grief, fear haunt Nashville as residents gather to mourn in wake of Covenant shooting

Vatican rejects doctrine that fueled centuries of colonialism
Associated Press: The Vatican on Thursday responded to Indigenous demands and formally repudiated the “Doctrine of Discovery,” the theories backed by 15th-century “papal bulls” that legitimized the colonial-era seizure of Native lands and form the basis of some property laws today.

Behind the Latter-day Saint church’s vast wealth are two centuries of financial hits and misses
The Conversation: Headlines often overlook the long and surprising history of the modern church’s financial success – as well as the continued anxiety surrounding its economic reserves.

This Black church is demanding $22 million from the Proud Boys
VICE: The church already won a default victory in its lawsuit. Now it wants millions.

Idaho lawmakers pass a bill to prevent minors from leaving the state for abortion
NPR: After clearing both legislative chambers, Idaho could become the first state in the country to criminally charge those who help pregnant minors get an abortion across state lines without parental consent.

The Spark

In 2016, I wrote a poem that went viral. My home life got complicated.
One night, lying next to me in bed, my husband told me I was famous.* He said it quietly in the dark. In his inflection, I heard sadness, Maggie Smith says at The Cut.

*access is limited for nonsubscribers