RNS Morning Report - Decline in American Christian observance has slowed, Pew study finds

Top Stories Decline in American Christian observance has slowed, Pew study finds (RNS) – ‘The U.S. is a spiritual place, a religious place, where we’ve seen signs of religious stabilization in the midst of longer-term decline,’ said Gregory Smith, a senior associate director of research at Pew Research Center.   Boycotts accompany prayer as faith leaders prepare for a Lent of protest (RNS) — The Rev. Jamal Bryant said he hopes 100,000 ‘conscientious Christians’ will have signed up by March 5 to mark the ‘season of denial’ by fasting from shopping at Target.   Doctors say Pope Francis’ health shows ‘slight improvement’ (RNS) — The pope’s mild kidney failure is under control, tests showed.   As some Jewish philanthropists withdraw funding, others are standing up for Palestinian causes (RNS) — A newer group of Jewish philanthropists has begun to challenge restrictions in funding to organizations critical of Israel.   RNS Opinion Trump barrage of executive orders can only impose as much injustice as we allow (RNS) — Most startling is not the dismantling of government agencies that help others, but the public’s tolerance for these actions.   Where are the grown-ups? (RNS) — Childlike behavior among adults, especially those in positions of authority and power, is off the charts right now.   ICYMI At international Chabad conference, emissaries celebrate Jewish women’s leadership (RNS) — When he took over the Chabad movement, the Rebbe began sending out couples as emissaries, leading women to take on more responsibilities.   Faith groups claim legal victories on refugees, ICE raids at houses of worship (RNS) — ‘The courts are still working in this country,’ said Mark Hetfield, head of HIAS, a Jewish organization that works with refugees. ‘Thank God.’ In Other News Life without parole for Nice church attacker who murdered three Mexican bishops call for national unity in the face of Trump’s policies toward the country   Depend on our reporting? Help us out! As a nonprofit newsroom that covers all faiths, RNS sits uniquely at the intersection of freedom of the press and freedom of religion. You can support this work! News tips or feedback? Email comments@religionnews.com Like the Morning Report? Share it with a friend Forwarded this newsletter? Subscribe here We rely on reader donations to power our reporting. Donate here. Or send a check to: Religion News Foundation PO Box 1808 Columbia, MO 65205