Life & Culture
Eve is the original brat
By Olivia Bardo — August 2, 2024
(RNS) — Dance-pop star Charli XCX started what has become known as 'brat summer.'
Eliza Griswold’s ‘Circle of Hope’ is a portrait of an American church riven by discord
By Kathryn Post — August 2, 2024
(RNS) — ‘Circle of Hope’ is about a Philadelphia church struggling for survival amid financial strain, external crises and theological, political and personal clashes.
Jewish summer camps have been evolving for a century − but 2024 is a summer like no other
By Jonathan Krasner — August 1, 2024
(The Conversation) — The first Jewish summer camps were founded at the turn of the 20th century and have become cherished traditions. But many face tough questions about how to discuss Israel and antisemitism.
Apache Christ icon controversy sparks debate over Indigenous Catholic faith practices
By Deepa Bharath — July 29, 2024
MESCALERO, New Mexico (AP) — For this close-knit community, the 8-foot Apache Christ painting is a reminder of the holy union of their culture and faith.
Kamala Harris’ heritage draws attention to Hinduism’s complex history in Caribbean
By Richa Karmarkar — July 24, 2024
(RNS) — For many who claim Indo-Caribbean heritage, Vice President Kamala Harris’ spotlight is the perfect chance to dive into the community’s lesser-known past: where indigenous faiths and cultural traditions found more in common than not.
Is Marvel erasing a Jewish superhero?
By Eric J. Greenberg — July 24, 2024
(RNS) — It’s not the first time Marvel has been accused of fostering antisemitism.
Safeguarding the heartbeat: Native Americans in Upper Midwest protect their drumming tradition
By Giovanna Dell'orto — July 24, 2024
RNS - Bans on Native drum ceremonies bring up resonant histories of forced repression and trauma for Native communities today.
New show ‘The Promised Land’ tells Moses’ story in the style of ‘The Office’
By Kathryn Post — July 18, 2024
(RNS) — RNS spoke with writer and director Mitch Hudson, who is also a crew member on 'The Chosen,' about what's next for the new series.
Decades after Billie Holiday’s death, ‘Strange Fruit’ is still a searing testament to injustice – and of faithful solidarity with suffering
By Tracy Fessenden — July 17, 2024
(The Conversation) — Christian and Jewish themes influenced the world of art around one of jazz’s greatest singers.
At a progressive Christian festival in the woods of North Carolina, psychedelics were top of mind
By Ellie Davis — July 16, 2024
(RNS) — Joy Crawford described the fascination with hallucinogens as a “cultural groundswell” that the church would do well to catch up with.
On anniversary of Frida Kahlo’s death, her art’s spirituality keeps fans engaged around the globe
By MarÍa Teresa HernÁndez — July 16, 2024
MEXICO CITY (AP) — Her take on life and spirituality sparked a connection between her paintings and her viewers, many of whom remain passionate admirers of her work on the 70th anniversary of her death.
The Knights of Columbus will cover Rupnik mosaics, pending investigation
By Aleja Hertzler-McCain — July 12, 2024
(RNS) — The lay Catholic men’s organization said it may cover the artwork in plaster after the conclusion of the Vatican's investigation into Rupnik's alleged sexual abuse.
Online spaces create community for spiritual yoga practitioners
By Ellie Davis — July 11, 2024
(RNS) — Yoga churches, and the people who lead them, represent the evolving landscape of spirituality in America, blending ancient wisdom with modern practices to create a supportive community for seekers of all backgrounds.
Artist Tobi Kahn receives ‘chaver’ honor, an ancient tradition with a modern twist
By Chloë-Arizona Fodor — July 10, 2024
(RNS) — The German-Jewish title with ancient roots is granted to those who exhibit significant spiritual and material leadership in their community.
American Hindu parents are finding innovative ways to pass the faith on to their kids
By Richa Karmarkar — July 9, 2024
(RNS) — 'It's a religion of understanding and of knowledge, not of faith. And I think that kind of vibes with the modern generation,' said Instagram's The Hindu Grandma.
