RNS Morning Report: Biden commutes sentences of 37 on federal death row, three remain

Top Stories Biden commutes sentences of 37 on federal death row, three remain WASHINGTON (RNS) — 'I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level,' Biden said in his statement.   At Trump’s inauguration, reports of a pay-to-pray (RNS) — According to a report, you can pray with Trump and Melania. It'll only cost you $100,000.   Rome and the Vatican prepare to inaugurate the 2025 Jubilee VATICAN CITY (RNS) — Over 35 million pilgrims are expected to visit Rome in 2025 seeking forgiveness of sins and a chance to see the pope.   In Bethlehem, a Christian pastor says a year of protest for Palestinians shows few gains (RNS) — Asked about Mike Huckabee potentially becoming the U.S. ambassador to Israel, the Rev. Munther Isaac called the prospect 'frightening,' adding, 'Huckabee presents himself, at least, as a man who does not live in reality.'   RNS Opinion Why no campus outcries about Syrian atrocities? (RNS) — You mean you haven't seen the campus demonstrations about what has happened in Syria? Hmm.   Sri Lankan cardinal bans female altar servers, but why? (RNS) — Reckoning the cost of an archbishop having his way.   ICYMI Trump nominates CatholicVote president and culture warrior as Holy See ambassador (RNS) — CatholicVote has slowly emerged as a player in conservative politics, often as a sharp-elbowed crusader in the culture wars.   Churches consider what sanctuary might look like in Trump’s second term (RNS) — The news that Trump may rescind a policy discouraging immigration officials from arresting people at churches is making some church leaders reconsider sanctuary. In Other News The fun — and confusion — of celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah on the same date Alabama bishop dismissed clergy abuse claim later found credible in Michigan, report finds   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. RNS 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