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Editor's note:
The centenarian club gained a new member this week: Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Nelson, a retired heart surgeon whom church members consider a prophet, celebrated his 100th birthday Monday with a special broadcast. Since taking the helm in 2018, he’s made a number of changes, from shortening Sunday services to ending the church’s relationship with the Boy Scouts. But one reform may prove especially consequential, or at least controversial: Nelson’s push against the term “Mormon".
At times, the church has embraced the nickname. Just a decade ago, its “I’m a Mormon” campaign was splashed across screens and billboards. So for some Americans, including members, the change prompted confusion and reflection.
Konden Smith Hansen, a historian of religion at the University of Arizona, traces the much-debated term’s history. The church has long wrestled with “Mormon,” he explains – yet the word has been key in shaping other Americans’ understanding of the often-misunderstood faith.
Religion News
Grief over Gaza and qualms over US election add up to anguish for many Palestinian Americans
For months, many Palestinian Americans have been contending with the double blow of the rising Palestinian death toll in Gaza and their own government’s support for Israel in the war. Now, ahead of the U.S. election, they also wrestle with tough, deeply personal voting decisions. By Mariam Fam/The Associated Press
Trump’s abortion pivot hasn’t shaken evangelical Christian leaders’ support
'I don’t just consider a candidate’s words, I look at their actions and what they have done,' said the Rev. Franklin Graham. By Jack Jenkins/Religion News Service
Surrounded by heavily armed police, the 74-year-old preacher and four co-accused surrendered Sunday in his religious stronghold. By Jim Gomez/The Associated Press
Pope concludes Asia trip in economic power Singapore after joyous visit to impoverished, devout East Timor
Pope Francis has reached Singapore for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world’s richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. By Nicole Winfield and Niniek Karmini/The Associated Press
Polyamorists look for their place in church as the practice loses its taboo
For polyamorous clergy and Christians, ‘love is love is love.’ By Kathryn Post/Religion News Service
Commentary and Analysis
In 1966, the assertion of Black power was grounded in an appeal to the founding principles of the United States. Black church leaders called for healing internal divisions through engagement. By Tobin Miller Shearer for The Conversation
Autonomous AI is still designed by people − so who or what is really responsible for its actions? For centuries, theologians have posed similar questions about mankind and God. By David Danks and Mike Kirby for The Conversation
A scholar explains why some people see their vinyl records as a sacred collection. By Brock Ruggles for The Conversation
The Second Vatican Council's fathers tossed the Curia's agenda and set their own. Could history repeat itself? By Thomas Reese/Religion News Service
A girl reacts as Pope Francis arrives at Madya Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia, Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana)
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