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Plight of nuns in Sudan

Highlighting the humanitarian crisis

Religion Unplugged

Feb 19

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Hi Religion Unplugged readers,

“The dramatic rescue of a group of nuns and Catholic officials from war-torn Sudan last year highlights the shifting dynamics in a largely overlooked conflict, which may be the world’s worst,” writes contributor Joseph Hammond in today’s top story.

Christians are being disproportionately targeted with violence and are suffering starvation and disease — this story is just one harrowing example.

Hammond’s investigation has brought more details about this rescue and the suffering beforehand to light, explained here. Don’t miss it.

Exclusive: Plight Of Nuns In Sudan Highlights Growing Humanitarian Crisis

Last year, a handful of Salesian nuns worked to keep a small school and religious center in Khartoum open. As siege-like conditions worsened, they coordinated with Sudanese officials for an escape. An investigation by Religion Unplugged has revealed new details about the operation that were previously undisclosed. by Joseph Hammond

(REVIEW) Author of “The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism,” author Katherine Stewart picks up where that 2020 book left off in her new work “Money, Lies, and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy.” In it, she surveys a horizon that has only grown darker. It is a landscape overshadowed by a well-organized, well-funded consortium of oligarchs and billionaires and others. by Tom Verde

‘Rule Breakers’ Could Have Stood to Break Even More Rules In This Formulaic Drama

(REVIEW) The film follows Roya Mahboob, an Afghan woman whose passion in life is giving young girls a chance at a better life by teaching them computer programming. She decides that the only way to gain popular support for her endeavors in a patriarchal society is to start a women’s robotics team and win global competitions. But this will be harder and more dangerous than she suspects. It may go without saying, but the movie has a worthy message based on inspiring real-life people. by Joseph Holmes

On Religion: NFL Sideline Sermons During An Intense Time For America

(ANALYSIS) Moments after the Philadelphia Eagles won Super Bowl LIX, quarterback Jalen Hurts offered a familiar word of testimony: “God is good. He is greater than all of the highs and lows.” If those words sounded familiar, it's because Hurts — the MVP — shared them earlier on press day, along with several other times when he was in the spotlight: “My faith has always been a part of me.” by Terry Mattingly

Uganda’s Anglican Church Takes Steps To Protect Property From Land Grabbers

The church’s initiatives involve venturing into coffee farming to transform unused land into productive agricultural spaces, mass registration of untitled church land, issuing spiritual warnings and pursuing legal action against land grabbers. The plan will safeguard property and contribute to economic growth — ensuring that church land remains a valuable resource for future generations. by John Semakula

‘Conclave’: Is It Anti-Catholic Propaganda Or An Oscar-Worthy Film?

(ANALYSIS) Easily the biggest religious controversy at this year’s Academy Awards is with the movie “Conclave.” The film, based on the best-selling novel by Robert Harris and starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini and John Lithgow, follows a cardinal named Lawrence who’s been tasked with running the selection of a new pope. But Lawrence’s faith is challenged when he uncovers secrets at the Vatican. by Joseph Holmes

Can An Apology For LGBTQ Inclusion In The Church Be A Testament Of God’s Mercy?

(REVIEW) More progressive critics have said Hays doesn’t go far enough. Perhaps it’s not so much that God’s mind has changed on homosexuality or slavery, but God was always pro-LGBTQ and against slavery. The early Christians weren’t ready for the concept of individual human rights. Instead, one could say God was so merciful and patient, he allowed the human church to catch up with God’s gracious understanding of such issues. by Brian Bromberger

🔥 Faith, Hope And LA: The Positive Side Of Reporting On Way Too Many Disasters 🔌

Our columnist witnesses a whole lot of despair, but he always looks for a measure of hope. He explains why — and how — as he reports from the scene of Southern California’s deadly wildfires. by Bobby Ross Jr.

Don’t forget! You can subscribe to receive Bobby’s column directly in your inbox on Friday mornings!

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