Religion in the News Week Ending Sept. 27, 2015

Pagans Celebrate Autumnal Equinox With Public Rituals

Neo-pagans across the nation celebrated the start of fall with public rituals and a Pagan Pride Day. Event organizers say that Pagan Pride Day drew a crowd of nearly 650 people to Waterfront Park in Louisville, Ky. Read more about neo-pagan autumnal equinox celebrations.

Pope Francis from a Jewish Perspective
Already the most popular pope to date, Pope Francis has inspired his followers and the world to stand in a more united front. Jonathan Greenblatt, national director of the Anti-Defamation League, profiles the pope and his longstanding relationship with and appreciation for Jewish brethren. Read the Huffington Post article and learn more about the pope from a Jewish perspective.

How 6 LGBT Catholics Kept Their Faith – Despite Being Shunned By The Church
The Catholic church has long held a doctrine against gay marriage. Although 6 in 10 American Catholics support same-sex marriage according to the Pew Research Center, Pope Francis has made it clear he does not intend to amend the resolution. However, six LGBT Catholics are living their lives and staying firm in their faith openly. Read the story of these six people and learn how they’ve come to accept, understand and be proud of who they are.

Explore Some of the World’s Most Magnificent New Places to Pray
CNN’s Stephy Chung’s photo essay of the world’s most beautiful places to pray is a testament to spirituality worldwide. Explore the 19 wondrous locations and start planning a trip.

Overlapping Jewish, Muslim Holidays Prompt Cooperation in Jerusalem
Peace in the Middle East has proven to be possible. This year, Jewish holiday Yom Kippur and Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha overlap on the calendar, driving several followers of both faiths to Jerusalem. The two faith groups have been interlocked in religious tension for hundreds of years; but this year followers are making a push toward tolerance and understanding. An interfaith group gathered for a peace walk through the holy city Monday in solidarity – sending a message of unity and understanding.

The Spirituality in Prisons is Toxic
The United States prison system has always been the target of criticism by liberals and people of faith alike. In this Huffington Post article, Belmont University Associate Professor of Religion Andy Watts discusses the straining effect prisons have on the spirituality of human beings.