Wednesday's News & Ideas - 4/29/2020

Black pastors say they have trouble accessing SBA loan program
NPR: A new government program that funnels taxpayer money to churches, synagogues and mosques has brought welcome relief to some financially stressed houses of worship, while leaving others -- many of them serving communities of color -- still struggling to survive.

As country begins to open, Italian Bishops argue against continued ban on Masses
Religion News Service: After nearly 50 days of a nation-wide lockdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Italian government is beginning to outline “Phase Two,” which will allow the opening of some businesses and freedom of movement for currently home-bound citizens -- but which will not allow Masses.

Beyond Cedarville: Why do pastors keep getting rehired after abuse?
Christianity Today: Victims’ advocates caution institutions against plans to “restore” fallen leaders.
Religion News Service: Cedarville’s plan to save Anthony Moore abandoned its students -- and Moore

Who defines evangelicalism? An interview with Mark Noll
Religion & Politics: In this latest book, Noll has helped bring together many minds to ponder different facets of the questions facing evangelicalism.

The volunteers helping Muslim medical workers break fast during Ramadan
HuffPost: A group in Kansas City is bringing business to halal restaurants and food to essential workers throughout the month of Ramadan.

The Spark

Are community currencies a better way to shop?
Currencies like the Bristol Pound support local retailers and build a sense of community, the BBC reports -- and now some are going digital.

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