Thursday's News & Ideas - 10/22/2020

Religious identity and Supreme Court justices -- a brief history
The Conversation: For the first 190 years of its existence, from 1790 to 1980, the religious divisions that defined the court were denominational in nature rather than ideological.

Pope Francis, in shift for church, voices support for same-sex civil unions*
The New York Times: The comments, shown in a new documentary, are the strongest yet from a pontificate that has taken a more tolerant and inclusive tone.

Vatican and China renew deal over bishop appointments for two more years
National Catholic Reporter: The Vatican and China have renewed their provisional 2018 deal over the appointment of Catholic bishops in the communist country for a further two years, the two sides announced Oct. 22.

’Tis the season for a different kind of Advent resource kit
Baptist News Global: A new Advent resource blends the season’s traditional themes of light and hope with social justice causes -- all tied up with the goal of promoting faith and community during the pandemic.

French police operations underway after beheading of teacher
Associated Press: Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered on Sunday across France in support of freedom of speech and in memory of the slain 47-year-old teacher.

The Spark

What “home for the holidays” means during a pandemic
Without specific guidance around whether -- and how -- to travel, some find themselves playing a game of risk roulette, Vox says.

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