Religion and Faith

Jewish Minnesotans condemn fatal mass shooting at Hannukah event in Australia
Sunday marks the first day of Hanukkah for Jewish people around the world. But many will be gathering with heavy hearts after 11 people were killed in what Australian officials say was a “targeted attack” on the Jewish community in Sydney over the weekend.
Fire causes major damage at mosque and school in Prior Lake
A mosque in Prior Lake was severely damaged in a fire early Monday morning. As state and federal officials investigate the cause, Twin Cities Muslim leaders are declining to speculate whether the fire was an accident or set intentionally.
Central Minnesota priest accused of sexually abusing, stalking, threatening woman
St. Cloud diocese leaders were told of concerns raised about Joseph Herzing three years ago. After completing treatment, Herzing was allowed to return to active ministry, where he continued to serve until criminal charges were filed last week.
Pope Leo prays for unity at historic Nicaea site
On the second day of his inaugural overseas trip, Pope Leo XIV visited the ancient site of the First Council of Nicaea, in Turkey, urging Christians — and all faiths — to reject the use of religion to justify violence.
Annunciation parents brace for hard conversations at Thanksgiving
A coalition of parents whose kids were present during the Annunciation Catholic Church and School shooting held trainings this month on how to approach difficult conversations about gun violence ahead of the holidays. 
What does it really mean to be brave?
MPR News guest host Catharine Richert talks about being brave in life’s hardest moments with Bishop Mariann Budde who delivered a sermon that drew national attention shortly after President Donald Trump’s return to the White House. 
U.S. bishops officially ban gender-affirming care at Catholic hospitals
The bishops' decision formalizes a yearslong process for the U.S. church to address transgender health care. They also approved a special message on immigration, expressing concern over enforcement and conditions in detention centers.
U.S. Catholic bishops selects Oklahoma archbishop to lead them during Trump’s second term
U.S. Catholic bishops have elected Oklahoma City Archbishop Paul Coakley as their new president, choosing a conservative culture warrior to lead during President Donald Trump’s second term. The vote Tuesday serves as a barometer for the bishops’ priorities.