RNS Morning Report - As the first Latin American pope, Francis shifted the Catholic Church's center

Top Stories As the first Latin American pope, Francis shifted the Catholic Church’s center (RNS) — Drawing on Latin American theology that emphasizes collaboration, developed in response to continued struggles with colonialism, Francis pushed for a Catholic Church with broader inclusion of people on the margins.   Veterans Affairs asks employees in email to report ‘anti-Christian bias’ (RNS) — The email, prompted by an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in February, makes no mention of how to report bias or discrimination against other faiths.   Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival flaunts NYC creative spirit, religious coexistence NEW YORK (RNS) — In a city that thrives on self-expression, the Easter festival has transformed into a stage for personal identity, whimsy and protest.   Archbishop of Canterbury resigned six months ago. We’ll have a new pope before he’s replaced. LONDON (RNS) — A new archbishop will not only need to lead the British church but play a significant role in the Anglican Communion.   RNS Opinion Francis, a pope of many firsts: 5 essential reads (The Conversation) — Pope Francis was not one to shy away from controversial issues, whether inside or outside the church.   Before the conclave, cardinals will talk and politick (RNS) — Although overtly campaigning to be pope is discouraged and would be counterproductive, the cardinals do a lot of politicking in private prior to the conclave.   ICYMI Holding tickets for Rome, Vatican pilgrims pivot from saint canonization to papal funeral (RNS) — Tens of thousands of people planned to be at the Vatican this week for the canonization of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint.   135 cardinals will elect the next pope. Francis picked 108 of them. (RNS) — Francis, who died April 21 at age 88, stands to have an outsize impact on the vote for his successor. In Other News Historic Maryland church opens doors to visitors 320 years after closing down Even in Sickness, Pope Francis Reached Out to Gaza’s Christians   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