RNS Morning Report - Lawsuit challenges Oklahoma mosque rejection

Broken Arrow mosque leaders sue over alleged discrimination A federal lawsuit filed Monday (Aug. 3) alleges that anti-Muslim bias—not zoning concerns—drove Oklahoma officials to reject the first proposed mosque in Broken Arrow near Tulsa. “They did not want Muslims here, so they made up a reason, and in doing so, they violated the law,” said Meghan Murphy, an attorney with the Council on American-Islamic Relations, which filed the complaint on behalf of the Islamic Society of Tulsa. The complaint names the Broken Arrow mayor, four members of the city council and the city itself in arguing a January vote against the proposed mosque violated federal land use and religious freedom laws by treating the mosque differently from churches and other developments, setting up what could become a closely watched test of religious liberty protections for Muslim communities. RNS reporters Bob Smietana and Ulaa Kuziez bring you the story.     Top Stories Broken Arrow mosque leaders sue over alleged discrimination (RNS) — 'They did not want Muslims here, so they made up a reason, and in doing so, they violated the law,' said Meghan Murphy, an attorney with CAIR's Legal Defense Fund. Connecticut legislation aims to expand Islam education in public schools HARTFORD, Conn. (RNS) — As anti-Muslim bigotry rises, Connecticut's new provision to expand education on Arab and Islamic studies attempts to quell the tide. The liturgy wars are back. Spoiler: They never left. VATICAN CITY (RNS) — As prominent prelates clash over the traditional Latin Mass, Pope Leo XIV’s response may reveal his deepest instincts about authority, unity and tradition.           Opinion Why Black Southerners should become Republicans (RNS) — If you want political power in the South, you have to vote in Republican primaries. Boy George’s pro-Israel song is a big deal (RNS) — Boy George sings what we rarely hear: 'I stand with the Jews.' ICYMI Jewish New Yorkers on antisemitism, safety and the city’s first anti-Zionist mayor (RNS) — 'Jewish New Yorkers are being asked to carry the weight of a conflict thousands of miles away, regardless of our individual beliefs, backgrounds or politics,' said Dan Haddad, a Brooklyn resident. Why did a pastor say he almost died from listening to a chatbot? (RNS) — A chatbot functions as a mirror — not a true spiritual guide. Support Our Work As a nonprofit newsroom that covers all faiths, RNS sits uniquely at the intersection of freedom of the press and freedom of religion. News tips or feedback? Email comments@religionnews.com. Like the Morning Report? Share it with a friend. Forwarded this newsletter? Subscribe here. We rely on reader donations to power our reporting. Donate here. Or send a check to: Religion News Foundation PO Box 1808 Columbia, MO 65205

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UM News Digest - Aug. 3, 2026

UM News Digest - Aug. 3, 2026 Healing ministry | Wildfire response | Church court docket “I believe that part of this gift that God has given me is so that others can be blessed by it as well.” — The Rev. Andrea Byer Thomas, United Methodist Church of the Palm Beaches in Florida. The Rev. Andrea Byer Thomas makes therapeutic soaps and creams to soothe skin allergies. Photos courtesy of Handmade Luxuries. A ministry of healing WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (UM News) — The Rev. Andrea Byer Thomas wears many hats: pastor, entrepreneur, author and advocate for healing. Byer Thomas is senior pastor of United Methodist Church of the Palm Beaches in Florida. Beyond the pulpit, she crafts vegan skincare products inspired by her daughter’s lifelong battle with eczema, and writes candidly about grief, faith and finding God’s presence in life’s most difficult moments. Lilla Marigza reports.   Watch video Greater Northwest Area  A pastoral response to wildfires, gun violence DES MOINES, Wash. — Greater Northwest Area Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth calls for prayer amid gun violence in Seattle and Twin Falls, Idaho, as well as ongoing wildfires in Spokane, Washington. “All of this is terrifying. The smoke is heavy. The grief is heavy. The fear is real. But fear is not our calling, and despair is not our inheritance,” he writes in a pastoral response, which also includes resources and actions for church members. “Let us give, advocate, shelter, comfort, and show up.” Read response Donate to UMCOR’s U.S. Disaster Response Judicial Council Church court releases fall docket NASHVILLE, Tenn.  — The Judicial Council, The United Methodist Church’s top court, has released a three-item docket for its Oct. 21-24 online session. Briefs are due Aug. 19 and reply briefs are due Aug. 29. See docket Global Ministries Fellows will address injustice, healthcare PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Forty-nine new Global Mission Fellows will serve in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America, addressing systemic injustice through placements in fields such as education, healthcare, community development, migration, agriculture, communications and peacebuilding. The fellows were commissioned July 26 at Wesley Methodist Church. Sara Logeman reports. Read story ADVERTISEMENT Holston Conference 3 churches join for ‘Accessibility Sunday’ KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A Sunday morning cloudburst failed to dampen attendance at a combined worship service of three churches celebrating “Accessibility Sunday.” Lincoln Park-Lynnwood United Methodist Church hosted the disability awareness service and was joined by congregations from Emerald Avenue and Washington Pike United Methodist churches. Annette Spence has the story.  Read story  Native American Inter-Tribal Caucus Group stands in solidarity with Lumbee Tribe SELBYVILLE, Del. — In a statement, the Native American Inter-Tribal Caucus stands in prayerful solidarity with the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina as the tribe seeks “to protect the waters, wetlands, wildlife and ancestral homelands that have sustained their people since time immemorial.” The tribe received federal recognition late last year. Read statement (PDF)   United Methodist Men Strengthening discipleship in Philippines MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on United Methodist Men and the National United Methodist Men of the Philippines held their first Connectional Conference on July 22-23 at Central United Methodist Church in Ermita. The event brought together bishops, agency leaders and delegates from across the Philippines’ three episcopal areas under the theme “Empowering Men for Christ: Strengthening Discipleship, Stewardship and Mission in The United Methodist Church.” The two-day event culminated with the signing of a Connectional Covenant of Commitment. Read press release ADVERTISEMENT Voices for a World Free of Nuclear Weapons Nuclear Prayer Day is Aug. 6 MOUNT SHASTA, Calif. — Nuclear Prayer Day is Aug. 6, and the Global Days of Prayer and Action are Aug 6-9. Both commemorate the anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and call people of all faiths and traditions to pray, reflect, educate and act for a world free of nuclear weapons. The United Methodist Church’s Social Principles call for the elimination of nuclear weapons.  Read press release Learn more See United Methodist Social Principles Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference Native Moccasins Rock celebrates 25 years NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Native Moccasins Rock, an annual gathering organized by Native American Ministries of the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference, will mark its 25th year Aug. 14-16 in Bon Aqua, Tennessee. Focused on celebrating and preserving Native American heritage within the denomination, the event will feature workshops, crafts and discussions of Native traditions.  Learn more (PDF)   Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News Inclusivity brings church back from the brink Read story Photo by Jim Patterson, UM News Embracing role-playing games at church Read story Aug. 12 Form I-9 Training webinar Aug. 24-27 AI Church Summit: Human Agency More United Methodist events UMNews.org | UM News Photos

Uniting Church in Australia - Update on UCA Constitutional Reform | Season of Creation resources | Presbytery leaders gather and more in National Update 4 August 2026

4 August 2026 National Update Your snapshot of the Uniting Church in Australia

Featured Story Update on UCA Constitutional Reform Consultation has opened on proposed amendments to the Uniting Church Constitution to fulfil the Vision of Stream A of the Act2 Project, which envisages communities of faith worshipping God, growing as disciples, caring for one another, and participating in God’s mission in ways that reflect their local context. As part of the Assembly Standing Committee’s (ASC) work on fit-for-purpose local governance it has released an Exposure Draft for review and invites Synods and Presbyteries to provide feedback by 31 October 2026. The proposed Constitutional changes arise from decisions made by members from across the life of the Church including every Presbytery and Synod at the 17th Assembly meeting in Parramatta in July 2024. To achieve this Vision, the Assembly committed to strengthening the current Regulations to give local communities of faith greater flexibility, reduce administrative burdens, and strengthen the ability of Presbyteries to support and oversee communities in worship, mission, ministry and service. Since August 2024, the ASC, supported by a cross-Synod Reference Group and the Assembly Resourcing Unit, has advanced this work. After undertaking a detailed legal review, the Assembly received advice confirming that key changes to the Regulations require Constitutional amendments before they can be implemented. The Assembly will use feedback received during the consultation period to prepare a Final Draft for consideration in 2027. Any amendment to the Constitution requires approval from the Assembly through its Standing Committee, a majority of Synods and two-thirds of Presbyteries. We look forward to keeping all church members updated on the progress of the process. ECUMENICAL Resources for Season of Creation 2026 now available Each year from 1 September to 4 October, Christians around the world join in the Season of Creation – a time of prayer, worship and action celebrating God as Creator and caring for our common home. Click here to learn more about this special season on the Christian calendar, and to download the resources to use in your church. AROUND THE CHURCH Presbytery leaders gather in Hobart The UCA National Presbytery Ministers Gathering brought leaders from every state and territory to Hobart last week for worship, learning and conversation about leadership in times of change. Participants heard from President Rev Charissa Suli, General Secretary Andrew Johnson and Act2 Commission leaders, as well as Rev Dr Julian Hamilton of the Methodist Church of Ireland. Reflecting on the gathering, Rev Suli highlighted the importance of listening, reconciliation and strengthening congregations, schools, agencies and community ministries. ASSEMBLY National Assembly leadership position available The Uniting Church in Australia Assembly is seeking a visionary leader to serve as Director, Identity & Mission. This key national role will help shape the Church’s future by strengthening our identity, fostering unity, amplifying our shared story and advancing the Assembly Strategy 2026–31. Working across the Church in Australia and with global partners, the successful candidate will build relationships, support faithful change and create opportunities for young people to lead. If you’re passionate about mission, justice and the life of the Church, we encourage you to apply. Interested applicants are invited to mail a 2 page letter and a CV to the General Secretary at gensec@nat.uca.org.au. AROUND THE CHURCH Your invitation to the Rev Dr Michelle Cook Lecture and Workshops The Northern Synod is staging the inaugural Rev Dr Michelle Cook Lecture and Workshops this October as it honours the legacy of the gifted theologian, educator and leader. Focusing on the theme, ‘Covenant – our lived experience and renewal of the UCA–UAICC Covenant’, the event will feature a keynote conversation with Rev Ken Sumner and Dr Rosemary Dewerse as well as workshops giving focus to First Peoples justice-based theology, theological education, discipleship and women in ministry. This event will be held at Nungalinya College and online on 1 October. Register today! AROUND THE CHURCH Giving thanks for Rev Pita Qasevakatini’s faithful ministry Last Friday, the Sydney Fijian Parish gave thanks for the faithful ministry of Talatala Rev Pita Qasevakatini, and to commend Pita and his wife Tupou into God’s continuing care as they return home to Fiji. Congregations gathered at Parramatta’s Leith Memorial Church to give thanks to God for Pita’s ministry among us over the past five years and bless them as they prepare to return home to Fiji. We also remember their children, whose love, patience and sacrifice have been part of this journey, even from across the ocean. Friday reminded us the Church is always larger than one congregation or one nation. The Methodist Church in Fiji entrusted one of its ministers to us, and for this we give thanks. The Assembly, UnitingWorld, the Synod of NSW and ACT, Sydney Presbytery, Fiji National Conference, and especially Fiji Parish, all worked collectively to welcome Pita and Tupou so generously. Pita and Tupou return home with new friendships, new experiences and new wisdom. Above all, they return knowing that the God who called them to Australia is the same God who now calls you both home to Fiji. The Sydney Presbytery will be conducting the closure of ministry service for Rev Pita at Canterbury Uniting Church, 303-305 Canterbury Road at 11am this Sunday. Entrance into the church is accessible through Clunes Lane (off Wonga Street). Pictured above: Rev Tui Waqanibaravi, Rev Viniana Rokomasi Ravetali, Rev Pita Qasevakatini, President Rev Charissa Suli and Rev Tevita Lidi. FRONTIER SERVICES Three days in Cowell with Outback Links A small group of Outback Links volunteers arrived in Cowell, South Australia, and left having built a carport, laid paving, and connected a new rainwater system. Just as important was the time they made to sit and listen to the people they’d come to help. Outback Links is Frontier Services’ volunteer program, connecting willing hands with rural and remote communities. From the first night under the trees to the final thank-yous, this is a trip shaped by small moments and shared meals that made a real difference. Read the full story here. JUSTICE Prayer for the Peaceful Reunification of the Korean Peninsula The World Council of Churches is inviting churches across the world to join the 2026 Prayer for the Peaceful Reunification of the Korean Peninsula. Marking the 40th anniversary of the Glion meeting, this year’s prayer calls on us to pray for an end to war and the establishment of a peace treaty, for mutual respect between the two Koreas, and for a future of peaceful coexistence. It also remembers all those suffering from war and violence in Palestine, Ukraine, Myanmar and many other parts of the world, affirming that peace on the Korean Peninsula is inseparable from the pursuit of just peace for all creation. ADVOCACY Voice your support for Gambling Reform The Federal Government’s Interactive Gambling Amendment Bill 2026 is currently before a Senate inquiry, with the main debate being whether the proposed reforms go far enough to deliver the recommendations of the Murphy Report. More than ever, community voices are crucial in pushing for stronger protections that reflect the recommendations of the Murphy Report and better protect Australians from gambling harm. The Wesley Mission in partnership with the Alliance on Gambling Reform have made a submission to the inquiry, recommending the adoption of the Report’s 31 recommendations and introducing a duty of care on gambling organisations. Concerned church members can join the voices campaigning for gambling reform through the Alliance’s website. The century-old kindergarten hall of Orange Uniting Church has been given new life, providing practical help and hope to young people experiencing homelessness. Visionaries, the Christian visual arts network founded at Merthyr Road Uniting in 1998, has opened its 2026 exhibition at ACU Banyo. The exhibition runs until 4 September. The World Council of Churches has condemned the seizure of St Peter’s Evangelical Church and Synod Secretariat in Tehran, urging Iranian authorities to restore the property and safeguard the rights of the country’s Christian minority. Young ecumenical leaders have been challenged to embody hope, unity and courageous leadership as the Christian Conference of Asia's Asian Ecumenical Institute 2026 concluded its month-long program last Friday. Join us in prayer for... God to grant wisdom, discernment and unity as our Church reflects on the proposed Constitutional changes. Our Almighty Creator, in this upcoming Season of Creation, to renew the hearts of his followers to cherish and protect his creation. May his church to faithfully serve as stewards of the earth with hope, wisdom and love. Republic of Congo, Gabon, Sao Tome and Principe as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle. August 4  National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day 30  Frontier Services Sunday September 1  Season of Creation (until 4 Oct) Click here for the Uniting Church Assembly 2026 calendar. ACT: Registered Nurse - Uniting NSW.ACT ACT: Care Worker - Uniting Amala ACT: Casual Early Educators - Uniting Early Learning NSW: Family/Community Worker - Milton Ulladulla UC  NSW: International Programs Manager, REnew Pacific - UnitingWorld NSW: Pastor - Newtown Mission NSW: Presbytery Finance Manager - Southern Presbytery NSW: Youth & Young Adults Pastor - Quakers Hill UC NSW: Youth Music Leader - MustardSeed UC NT: Chaplain - ARRCS  Nhulunbuy NT: Congregational Minister - Nightcliff UC NT: Minister - Alice Springs UC QLD: Production Coordinator - Newlife Church QLD: Minister - Granite Belt Parish QLD: Youth & Children’s Pastor - St Lucia UC QLD: Minister - Napranum St Barnabas UAICC UC QLD: Chaplain - Carpentaria Remote Bush Chaplaincy SA: Facilitators (various roles) - Beyond Limits Outdoor Education SA: Youth & Young Adults Pastor - Playford UC SA: ICT Support Services Officer - Uniting SA VIC: Minister/Pastor - Werribee UC VIC: Administration Support Officer - Synod of VIC and TAS TAS: Minister/Pastor - Hobart Scots Memorial UC TAS: Administration Officer (Finance & Property) - Synod of VIC and TAS WA: Volunteer and Corporate Engagement Coordinator - Uniting WA WA: Property Administration Officer - Synod of WA WA: CDS Site Supervisor - Good Sammy WA: Pilbara Patrol Remote Area Bush Chaplain - Synod of WA Have a role you’d like us to advertise? 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