RNS Morning Report - Three US states now recognize Diwali as a holiday

Top Stories Three US states now recognize Diwali as a holiday (RNS) — As of this week, three US states have codified Diwali as a state holiday, offering a framework for excused absences or paid leave for students and employees who wish to celebrate. ‘Cameroon is a powder keg’: Catholic bishops challenge nonagenarian president DOUALA, Cameroon (RNS) — Even the president’s daughter, Brenda Biya, urged followers in a plaintive TikTok post not to re-elect him. Tony Evans talks about his next chapter, undisclosed ‘sin’ and new book (RNS) — ‘Whatever life I have left, I want to maximize at the highest possible level for God’s kingdom and for eternity,’ Evans said in an interview with RNS. Palestinians in Gaza express relief and caution as ceasefire deal raises hopes of ending the war DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israel and Hamas have agreed to a pause in their war and the release of the remaining 48 hostages, around 20 of them believed to be alive, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Opinion In the Bible’s immigrant story, a model for humanizing the vulnerable (RNS) — As biblical references to immigrants become political slogans, Ruth's story shows how keeping the humanity of immigrants in view changes the debate. Bombing has stopped in Gaza, but the tragedy is only beginning (RNS) — Survival in Gaza is, historically, not followed by recovery, but another round of survival. ICYMI Judge bars ICE from taking some violent actions against religious activists, journalists (RNS) — The suit was primarily brought by journalists who allege they have been targeted by federal agents, but the list of plaintiffs also included the Rev. David Black, a Chicago-area Presbyterian minister. American Jews and Muslims celebrate ceasefire deal, but cautiously (RNS) — Many expressed relief at the prospect of an end to the two-year war but pointed out that ceasefires have been broken before. In Other News Once filled with pigeons, historic D.C. church undergoes $30M renovation Pastors and staff from underground church are arrested in China Support Our Work As a nonprofit newsroom that covers all faiths, RNS sits uniquely at the intersection of freedom of the press and freedom of religion. 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

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