Religion News Service - Charlie Kirk's AI resurrection reveals new era of digital grief

Top Stories Charlie Kirk’s AI resurrection reveals new era of digital grief (RNS) — AI-generated versions of the conservative Christian activist are popping up online after his killing — as well as in church services. Heathens bemoan Patel’s ‘hypermasculine’ Valhalla valedictory to Kirk (RNS) — Valhalla has a specific meaning to neo-pagans who focus on Norse mythology. But as far-right groups adopt Norse symbols, it can carry darker connotations. AME Church clergy, staff near retirement fund payout as appeal window closes (RNS) — The settlement agreement also calls for the closure of the AME Church’s Department of Retirement Services by July 31, 2028. Pope Leo calls out ‘unacceptable conditions’ for Palestinians as Israel advances in Gaza City (RNS) — The pope’s appeals have become increasingly adamant as the humanitarian situation worsens in the Holy Land. RNS Opinion Hey, ICE, stop misusing the Bible to recruit agents (RNS) — Next time, leave the biblical scholarship to the professionals. Without Johnson Amendment protections, churches can be exploited by politicians, donors (RNS) — The entire nonprofit sector risks being corrupted and captured by partisan politics and polarization. ICYMI She came to her ICE check-in backed by an Episcopal bishop and 500 supporters (RNS) — As immigrants increasingly fear detention at ICE check-ins, many faith groups have doubled down on accompaniment strategies to support them at those appointments. Predominantly white church dedicates memorial to the enslaved who worked on its land (RNS) — ‘‘Forever in the Path’ calls us to renew our covenant to seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God,’ said the church’s pastor. In Other News New Orleans church abuse documentary based on Guardian reporting wins top award Most American Jews say Trump is using antisemitism as an ‘excuse’ to silence free speech at universities 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