Religion and Faith

Minnesotans embrace Pope Francis' statement on climate change
Pope Francis called for people to reduce waste, switch to cleaner forms of energy and redefine progress and development. Minnesota Catholics say the challenge will be converting his words to action.
'Mother Emanuel' church suffers a new loss in Charleston
The church that was the scene of Wednesday's mass shooting has survived a string of challenges, from racism to an earthquake. Emanuel took its current name at the end of the Civil War.
What Pope Francis' statement on climate change says about faith
The Pope released his encyclical on climate change, a much anticipated and leaked document that connects the warming climate with human activity and criticizes global capitalism's indiscriminate use of natural resources.
Pope urges revolution to save Earth, fix 'perverse' economy
In a sweeping manifesto, Pope Francis blames the science of global warming on an unfair, fossil fuel-based industrial model that he says harms the poor most.
'What is an encyclical?' and more questions about the Pope's environmental teaching
Pope Francis released his much-anticipated teaching document on the environment Thursday, declaring an urgent need for the political and spiritual conversion of global leaders and individuals to dedicate themselves to curbing climate change and ending policies and personal habits that destroy creation.
Archdiocese asks for big-name legal help
The Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis said it needs the help of Joseph Dixon in defending itself against criminal and civil charges.
What is Ramadan -- and why do Muslims fast?
Muslims around the world are marking the start of the holy month of Ramadan, a time marked by intense prayer, daily fasting and nightly feasts.
Temporary archdiocese caretaker to say Mass for priests Wednesday
Priests are eager to hear from Archbishop Bernard Hebda, the temporary apostolic administrator for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. He will hold a Mass in Rochester Wednesday.
Nienstedt's resignation could boost church donations
Many parishes are struggling financially because parishioners are giving less out of anger with church leaders. Archbishop John Nienstedt's decision to step down could encourage Catholics to give.