5 million Indian women just made a 385-mile human chain for gender equality
The wall was a statement of gender equality, and a call to end violent protests against women trying to enter Kerala’s Sabarimala temple, a pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Religion
This archive gathers 60 stories about meaningful progress at the intersection of faith, community, and public life. From interfaith cooperation on climate and poverty to congregations expanding social services, these articles document what religious communities are doing — and achieving — across the U.S. and around the world.
Church of England welcomes trans people into the faith
The Church of England has issued new guidance saying that it “welcomes and encourages the unconditional affirmation of trans people” and offers clergy ways to help them celebrate the sacrament of baptism in a meaningful, inclusive way.
5,500 U.K. churches are now using renewable energy
Churches are also shunning the most polluting fossil fuels in their investment portfolios, which are typically used to fund the retirement of clergy and upkeep of church buildings.
Myanmar and U.N. announce deal for safe return of Rohingya
United Nations says staff will visit Rakhine state in first step towards repatriation of 700,000 refugees camped in Bangladesh
The Church of Scotland has voted to allow ministers to conduct same-sex marriages
The Church of Scotland has voted to draft new laws that would allow ministers to conduct same-sex marriages.
Church of Ireland to end investments in fossil fuel companies
The Church of Ireland has voted to exclude fully companies with a turnover of greater than 10 percent from fossil fuel production, by 2022.
First West Africa LGBT-inclusive religious gathering takes place
More than 30 delegates from 10 West African countries gathered in Ghana from Aug. 24-28 for the Interfaith Diversity Network of West Africa’s first-ever interfath diversity event.
Nepal outlaws custom of exiling women during their periods
The ancient Hindu tradition of Chhaupadi, whereby women are confined to animal sheds during menstruation to keep “impurity” out of the home, was banned by the supreme court in 2005.
More than 30,000 Muslims gather to condemn Isis at largest Islamic convention in U.K.
The Jalsa Salana event, held on a 200-acre farm in Hampshire, saw tens of thousands of Ahmadi Muslims come together to condemn “misinterpretations of Islam” and denounce extremism and terrorism.
Anglican church set to offer special services for transgender people
The General Synod, meeting in York, voted in favour of the move by 284 votes to 78. It was the second time in two days that it gave overwhelming support to motions seen as positive towards LGBT people, suggesting to some a significant change of mood.