News & Ideas

Monday's News & Ideas - 11/13/2023

  • Pope Francis removes Texas bishop
  • Scott Sauls resigns
  • Native midwife named Orthodox saint
  • Thousands march against antisemitism
  • Diwali in photos
  • Work-life balance & a 4-day workweek

Pope Francis removes a leading U.S. conservative critic as bishop of Tyler, Texas
The Associated Press: Pope Francis on Saturday ordered the removal of the bishop of Tyler, Texas, a conservative prelate active on social media who has been a fierce critic of the pontiff and has come to symbolize the polarization within the U.S. Catholic hierarchy.

Scott Sauls resigns from Christ Presbyterian following overwhelming congregation vote*
The Tennessean: Hundreds of members gathered at Christ Presbyterian’s flagship campus located at the Nashville/Brentwood border to deliberate “releasing” Sauls from his call as leader of the three-campus congregation, where he led for 12 years and gained celebrity status and adoration among members.

Native Alaskan healer named North America’s first female saint in Orthodox Church
Religion News Service: A Native Alaskan midwife known for her healing love, especially toward abused women, has become the first female Orthodox Christian saint from North America after she was glorified at a meeting of bishops of the Orthodox Church in America in Chicago this week.

Over 100,000 march in France against antisemitism*
The New York Times: The demonstrations in Paris and other cities came amid a rise in tensions in France over the Gaza war and a surge in antisemitic incidents.

Diwali: Indians celebrate the sparkling festival of lights
BBC News: Millions of Indians are celebrating Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, which is one of the most important festivals in the country.

The Spark

A manufacturer tried the 4-day workweek for 5 days’ pay and won’t go back
The success stories coming out of the trial have offered a work-weary public hope that a better work-life balance is achievable, says NPR.

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starry night art

Advent and Christmas resource guide

From music and visual arts inspiration to children’s book recommendations, this guide from the Calvin Institute of Chrisitan Worship provides Advent and Christmas worship planning resources.

Learn More