Wednesday's News & Ideas - 7/26/2023

Congregations leave United Methodist Church over defiance of LGBTQ bans
NPR: Glen Haworth, a lifelong United Methodist who’s been a pastor his entire professional life, came to The Fount nine years ago. He says that when he arrived, the 50 member congregation was already unhappy with the direction of the denomination.

The church of group fitness*
The New York Times: Jessica Grose heard from readers about ways they’ve been able to form close bonds after they’d stopped attending services, and group athletics came up over and over as a way that people are creating community in the 21st century.

Emmett Till memorialized in monument that includes Chicago church
Religion News Service: “At a time when there are those who seek to ban books, bury history, we're making it clear — crystal, crystal clear,” said President Joe Biden.

Former pastor arrested in 1975 murder of young girl walking to his church
NBC News: The murder of 8-year-old Gretchen Harrington shook Marple Township, Pennsylvania, just outside Philadelphia. Authorities say the man recently confessed.

Israelis asked about ‘unusual’ sexual acts and ‘belief in Christ’ on written driving test*
Haaretz: The Health Ministry has not clarified what impact subjects’ sexual and religious preferences have on their ability to obtain a license.

The Spark

What is ecotourism? A guide on how to travel sustainably.
Immerse yourself in nature — with respect for the environment and the culture that supports it, Vox says.

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