RNS Morning Report: Legislation aims to ‘decolonize’ United Methodists, give parity to non-US conferences

Top Stories Legislation aims to ‘decolonize’ United Methodists, give parity to non-US conferences (RNS) — A proposed regionalization plan would undo the dominance and control of the US church and make it on par with United Methodist conferences abroad.   Kenyan court rules pastor accused of starving his congregation is mentally fit for trial NAIROBI, Kenya (RNS) — The taxi driver-turned-charismatic preacher faces multiple charges, including murder and terrorism, after being accused of convincing members of his church — some say ‘cult’ — to pray and fast until death, with the goal of meeting Jesus.   After 1,000 years, a new temple to the Norse gods rises in Iceland REYKJAVIK, Iceland (RNS) — Dedicated to the whole pantheon of Norse gods and nature spirits, the temple will serve followers of the second-largest faith in the country.   Conservative Nebraska lawmakers push bills that would intertwine religion with public education LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — These bills are part of a broader Republican push nationwide to target a variety of culture issues in education, including diversity, equity and inclusion programs and the type of books allowed in school libraries. RNS Opinion The Synod on Synodality called for better liturgy. Will anyone listen? (RNS) — If the church is to have a Eucharistic revival, its liturgical texts should promote active participation by all people.   Trump disqualification case has shaken up American civil religion (RNS) — Liberals and conservatives have switched sides. ICYMI Why faith leaders lost the battle against online sports betting (RNS) — Legalized sports gambling now represents billions of dollars. Faith leaders in the few holdout states know the odds are against stopping it.   Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Blind Boys of Alabama add new Grammy wins (RNS) — Gospel singer Kirk Franklin won his 20th Grammy award for his performance and songwriting on 'All Things' in the best gospel performance/song category. In Other News Group in Michigan urges protest vote against Biden over Israel-Gaza war Freedom of religion is ‘deteriorating’ in Hong Kong, new report says   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