This Week in Religion - Rise of 'nones' – who have no religion – redefines spirituality

Lead story

In far-flung countries around the world, the ranks of the nonreligious are growing in numbers and diversity 

Editor's note:

For centuries, a handful of major religions have collectively been dominant forces across the world, with huge influence on the politics and daily life of virtually every nation. Religion still holds incomparable sway, but in many far-flung countries there has been a surge in the number of people who are nonbelievers or don’t identify with any organized religion. These so-called "nones" – atheists, agnostics, or "nothing in particular" – comprise 30% or more of the adult population in the United States and Canada, as well as numerous European countries. Japan, Israel and Uruguay are among other nations with many secular people. In a sweeping package of stories, photos and video, the AP Religion Team looks in-depth at how this phenomenon is playing out in the U.S., South America, Europe and Asia. Some parts of the package look at regions, including much of the Middle East, where openly being a "none" is rare – and potentially dangerous. 

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Religion News

‘Am I going to feel anything?’: Young Zoroastrians reconnect with their faith

Looking to ensure a future for the aging, mostly immigrant Zoroastrian community, the faith’s leaders in the United States are rallying young Zoroastrians to make friendships across demographic lines and rediscover their spiritual heritage. By Tori Luecking/Religion News Service

A green card processing change means US could lose thousands of faith leaders from abroad

Because of a procedural change in how the U.S. government processes some green cards, faith communities across the country may lose thousands of leaders and workers. By Giovanna Dell’Orto/The Associated Press 

Trump, once ‘most pro-life president,’ riles anti-abortion activists with new stance

'President Trump’s disappointing comments only serve as an avenue for pro-lifers to find another candidate to support,' said anti-abortion activist Abby Johnson. By Jack Jenkins/Religion News Service

Iraqi Christian religious leaders demand an international investigation into deadly wedding fire 

Christian religious leaders in northern Iraq call for an international investigation into a deadly wedding fire that killed more than 100 people and slammed the government’s probe, which blamed the blaze on negligence and lack of precautionary measures. By Qassim Abdul-Zahra and Bassem Mroue/The Associated Press 

Clergy abuse survivors propose new ‘zero tolerance’ law following outcry over Vatican appointment 

Clergy sexual abuse survivors on Monday unveiled a proposed new church law calling for the permanent removal of abusive priests and superiors who covered for them, as they stepped up their outrage over Pope Francis’ choice to head the Vatican office that investigates sex crimes. By Nicole Winfield/The Associated Press 

 

Commentary and Analysis

The worldwide consultations for the global synod reflect Pope Francis' efforts toward building a more inclusive Catholic Church

As the Synod of Bishops meets in Rome, a Catholic theologian explains the preparations that went into the consultative process and what it says about Pope Francis' vision for the future church. By Daniel Speed Thompson for The Conversation

What is an abaya − and why does it cause such controversy in France? A scholar of European studies explains

In some conservative countries, the abaya is part of expected dress. But in countries where Muslims are in the minority, the abaya can be a way for women to connect with their religious identity. By Armin Langer for The Conversation

Birds, worms, rabbits: Francis of Assisi was said to have loved them all – but today's pet blessings on his feast day might have seemed strange to the 13th century saint

Medieval monastics were often discouraged from owning companion animals, which were viewed as a distraction, a religion scholar explains. By Mary Dzon for The Conversation

Religious liberty is becoming a go-to right for everyone

A legal strategy pioneered by the right has been adopted by the left. By Mark Silk/Religion News Service

 

Photos of the Week: Ethiopian New Year; Prophet Muhammad’s birthday

Religious leaders and Ethiopians celebrate the Ethiopian New Year, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Wednesday, Sept.27, 2023. Meskel, meaning the Cross in Amharic, is an annual religious Ethiopian holiday among Orthodox Christian believers and the first outdoor feast in the Church calendar. (AP Photo)

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