RNS Morning Report: ‘Not a real schism’: Four years later, UMC exodus a trickle

Top Stories ‘Not a real schism’: Four years later, UMC exodus less a gush, more a trickle (RNS) — An analysis of departing churches suggests the country’s second-largest Protestant denomination will be weakened, but it is unlikely to break.   Faith-based organizations urge Biden not to enact ‘asylum ban’ (RNS) — The proposed policy 'borders on a wealth test for some of the most vulnerable children and families,' said one advocate.   Queer bars offer sacred space for LGBTQ community (RNS) — 'I experienced that genuine, authentic love in gay bars more than I’d ever experienced it growing up in the four walls of the church,' said musician Trey Pearson.   Church of England apologizes for treatment of LGBTQ people LONDON (AP) — The country's established church formally apologized for its treatment of LGBTQ people, even as it said that same-sex couples still won't be allowed to marry in its churches. RNS Opinion For Gen Z, crystals embed spirituality in the planet (RNS) — They often seem to occupy a place once held by traditional religious beliefs.   Bad weather is here. How to see it as grace. (RNS) — Our cultural views on resilience are too limited. ICYMI At March for Life, a jubilant crowd prepares for state-level fights WASHINGTON (RNS) — 'It's really going to move more towards a local level,' said a priest and university president from Ohio, who attended the march.   New book spotlights influence of Pentecostalism on California’s Mexican farmworkers (RNS) — 'Sowing the Sacred: Mexican Pentecostal Farmworkers in California' recounts how 'divine healing' was seen as a pragmatic way to care for impoverished workers who lacked regular access to medical care. In Other News Israel’s judicial reforms could strengthen religion’s role in public life The rise of spirit warriors on the Christian right   Talk to Us We want your feedback on the RNS Morning Report — what you think we're doing right and what we should be doing differently. Send us an email at Comments@ReligionNews.com Subscribe to other RNS Newsletters. Forward this email to a friend. View the archive of past newsletters. Religion News Service is free to read, but it's not free to produce. If you value our reporting, please consider making a donation today at religionnews.com/donate. If you prefer to mail a donation, please address to: Religion News Foundation, PO Box 1808, Columbia, MO 65205. Yes, I support the work you're doing! Forward this email to a friend