No images? Click here Lead storyEditor's note: As the United Nations Climate Conference known as COP26 gathers world leaders in Glasgow, Scotland, over the next two weeks to discuss climate change, environmental activists from various faith traditions will be there too. In the face of dire climate challenges, for many of these veteran advocates a positive perspective is central to their faith. In the Sikh tradition, said environmental scientist Bandana Kaur Malik, “we approach the challenges of the world in a spirit of optimism.” Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz believes change is already happening. “I see a revolution started, a spiritual revolution of people who are changing their lives and are working to change their communities,” he said. Religion News Service correspondent Elizabeth Evans interviewed environmental activists from across the religious spectrum as they looked toward COP26. Religion NewsBiden receives Communion in Rome amid debate in USPresident Joe Biden received Communion in Rome after saying Pope Francis told him he should continue to partake in the sacrament. Some U.S. conservatives are upset with Biden’s abortion stance and oppose him receiving Communion. By Nicole Winfield/The Associated Press Afghan crisis and pandemic make for another somber Día de los MuertosWith the ongoing pandemic, Día de los Muertos events, although not as restricted as in 2020, will continue to look a little different this year. By Alejandra Molina/Religion News Service The words of the captors’ families and supporters put a heavy emphasis on different themes like “Love your enemies.” These statements are deeply rooted in the unique religious tradition of conservative Anabaptists. By Peter Smith/The Associated Press Faith groups increasingly join fight against climate changeFaith leaders and environmental activists are increasingly joining the fight against climate change. The movement knows no denominational boundaries but shares as a driving force a moral imperative to preserve the environment for future generations. By Luis Andres Henao and Jessie Wardarski/The Associated Press Commentary and AnalysisSome Hindus fear that Hinduism’s rich diversity is being erased in favor of a common Hindu canon. By Kalpana Jain/Religion News Service So-called Spiritualists split off from Martin Luther's Reformation 500 years ago, but some of their ideas carry on. By Christopher Schelin for The Conversation Two sociologists conducted interviews with atheist scientists and found that their views on religion are not as strident as the public perceives. Some even go to church. By Elaine Howard Ecklund and David R. Johnson for The Conversation A Catholic theologian argues for a death row convict's right to have the pastor's touch in the execution chamberWhen death is looming, the warmth of a held hand can communicate deeply where words fail. By Dorian Llywelyn for The Conversation An Indigenous family smokes tobacco as part of a ritual in honor of folk saint Maximon, a fictitious Indigenous person who is a syncretism of a Mayan and Saint Judas Thaddeus, on the feast day of both men outside the Maximon chapel in San Andres Itzapa, Guatemala, Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021. For the second year in a row, the celebration has been reduced amid restrictions to help curb the spread of the COVID-19. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) Did a friend or colleague forward this to you? Click the button below to subscribe.
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