VATICAN CITY (RNS) The Vatican City State reported a deficit of $22 million for 2008 as a consequence of the “global economic-financial crisis,” the Vatican announced on Saturday (July 4). The Vatican’s annual profit and loss statements showed that the 108-acre sovereign territory, which includes St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, fared much worse…

WASHINGTON (RNS) California megachurch pastor and best-selling author Rick Warren spent his Independence Day here in the nation’s capital addressing the largest Muslim organization in North America. While publicity ignited before the speech, the actual event had some competing fanfare. The speech kicked off 40 minutes late, and just in time for the Fourth of…

Americans looking to combine love of God with love of country this July 4th can quote the new “American Patriot’s Bible,” which says God has influenced America though godly Founding Fathers, presidents and soldiers. “This Bible is designed for the decent, hardworking core of America, the ordinary man or woman who loves this nation and…

Oregon City, Oregon – Carl and Raylene Worthington told detectives that they never considered calling a doctor, even as their 15-month-old daughter deteriorated and died. “I don’t believe in them,” Carl Worthington said of doctors. “I believe in faith healing.” Raylene Worthington said that her religious beliefs do not encompass medical care and that she…

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