A federal judge has temporarily ruled against Texas' mandate requiring public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms, saying it violates the First Amendment. This decision follows similar rulings in Louisiana and Arkansas and highlights an ongoing legal dispute over the separation of church and state.
The Spanish government has mandated the town of Jumilla to rescind a recently instituted ban on religious gatherings in public sports centres that predominantly affects the local Muslim community.
Quebec is defending its secularism law, Bill 21, at the Supreme Court, arguing opponents are repeating failed arguments in an attempt to overturn the law that bans religious symbols for public workers. The case is a landmark, with the court set to examine the government's power to override rights, attracting numerous intervenors and raising questions about the use of the notwithstanding clause.
Gama Cedain, chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region, declared the central government's ultimate authority in determining the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, a position supported by a large religious following. He clarified that the process adheres to strict religious rituals, historical conventions, and necessitates approval from the central government, all within the framework of national laws.
Gama Cedain, Chairman of the Xizang Autonomous Region People's Government, stated that the Dalai Lama's reincarnation is governed by religious rituals, historical conventions, and Chinese law, not the Dalai Lama himself. The central government holds ultimate authority over the reincarnation process, which includes search, identification, lot-drawing, and approval.
The Chinese government asserts its ultimate authority over the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, a position supported by Tibetan Buddhism followers and rooted in historical precedent. Officials criticize the current Dalai Lama's statements on reincarnation as attempts to undermine this authority and bypass established procedures.
Following the investigation of Shaolin Temple's abbot, Shi Yongxin, for alleged criminal offenses and violations of Buddhist precepts, the Buddhist Association of China emphasized the importance of adhering to Buddhist principles and strengthening self-governance.
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association launched a fund to defend Christians facing legal challenges.
Sen. Josh Hawley and Rep. Riley Moore are pushing for the Trump administration to prioritize protecting Christians facing persecution abroad, introducing a resolution condemning such attacks, particularly in Muslim-majority countries. The resolution cites specific examples of violence and calls for diplomatic action to safeguard persecuted Christians worldwide.
A new Washington state law requiring clergy to report child abuse is facing legal challenges from Catholic leaders and the U.S. Justice Department, who argue it infringes upon religious freedom by forcing priests to violate the confidentiality of confession. The law, set to take effect soon, has prompted a legal battle over the balance between protecting children and upholding religious practices.
The Buddhist Association of China has responded to recent statements made by the 14th Dalai Lama regarding his reincarnation, asserting that he has violated religious precepts. They emphasized that the central government holds the authority over reincarnation decisions, which are governed by established rituals and regulatory measures.
The Dalai Lama celebrated his 90th birthday in Dharamshala, India, drawing thousands of followers and global dignitaries who honored his life of service and commitment to compassion. He reaffirmed his intention to reincarnate and continue promoting human values, while also addressing concerns about his succession and the future of Tibetan Buddhism.
Surveys reveal that a majority of Americans support teacher-led prayer referencing Jesus in public schools, with strong support in the South and among Republicans. While there's openness to faith-based practices, experts debate whether these findings will influence policy changes in a system marked by differing beliefs.
The State Department and the Pope have condemned the recent massacre of Christians in Nigeria, allegedly by Islamist militants, with the attacks primarily targeting Christian communities in Benue State. The United States is urging the Nigerian government to protect civilians and combat terrorism, while concerns remain about the increasing violence and the potential for religious persecution.
A cloud formation resembling Jesus Christ appeared in Naga City, Philippines, leaving church-goers in awe following a mass on June 19, coinciding with National Youth Day and the feast of Corpus Christi.
Pope Leo XIV has declared that Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, will be canonized on September 7th, following a delay after the death of Pope Francis. The young Acutis, who died at age 15, gained immense popularity for his faith, outreach, and online exhibit on eucharistic miracles, leading to a surge of pilgrims visiting his tomb in Assisi.
The Vatican has officially designated 167 victims of the 2019 Easter bombings in Sri Lanka as "witnesses of faith", highlighting their sacrifice for their beliefs. This recognition was announced during a vigil attended by hundreds, marking the sixth anniversary of the tragic attacks that claimed 269 lives.
A prayer service in Ahmedabad was interrupted by far-right Hindu groups, Bajrang Dal and Vishva Hindu Parishad, who accused those present of conducting religious conversions. While no injuries were reported, the incident has raised concerns over the increasing incidents of religiously motivated violence in India.
Pope Francis made a significant appearance during Easter Sunday at St. Peter's Square, where he greeted thousands of attendees despite recently recovering from a serious health issue. While he did not celebrate the Easter Mass himself, he delivered a heartfelt message calling for peace in various global conflicts.
Foreign religious officials and monks toured key sites in China to learn about the Living Buddha reincarnation system, gaining insights into Tibetan Buddhism's spiritual succession process. The visits highlighted the standardized procedures for identifying reincarnated Living Buddhas and the preservation of Buddhist heritage, fostering greater understanding among practitioners.
