From the Checkbook to the Collection Plate: How Clergy Get Paid
October 06, 2016
Yes, we're going there. How do churches and synagogues get their congregations to pay up? And, a guitar-playing nun who chose a traditional life - and a habit - at 24.
A Tricky Theological Question: How To Keep The Lights On
October 07, 2016
It’s the time of year when many Jews around the country are pulling out their checkbooks to buy tickets for High Holy Day services, leaving many non-Jews a bit confused. Maureen had never heard of paying for a service, or collecting dues for a house of worship-- the so called "country club model." She's used to a collection plate being passes across her lap. so why do Jews pay dues, and Christians don't? And while we're talking about money, why are some clergy underpaid? The answers may surprise you.
Christian Smith, author of Passing the Plate: Why American Christians Don't Give Away More Money Rabbi Dan Judson, author of the upcoming book, Pennies for Heaven: A History of American Synagogues and Money
Nuns Now: A Mountain Bike Accident, And Then A Calling
October 07, 2016
At the time of the second Vatican council in the 1960s, almost all nuns had strict daily schedules, wore religious garb, and had to ask permission from a superior to do anything out of the ordinary. Today, very few nuns retain this traditional lifestyle... but Sister Miriam Holzman was drawn to it. In this second installment of our Nuns Now series, Sister Holzman tells us why she chose to give away virtually all her earthly possessions, including her cell phone, when she was just 24.
Sister Miriam, second from the right, on Old Rag Mountain in Virginia.
Special Live Event: Is Religion a Problem or Solution?
October 07, 2016
Is religion a force for good, or a force for evil? In a special live event at George Mason University in Virginia, Father Gerry Creedon laid it on the table. For many people, he told the audience, religion is about "legalism, fear, guilt and repression." For others, it is "a source of freedom, liberation, justice, and mercy." Where do you stand? Take a listen to our lively June 3rd conversation, then let us know what you think on our Facebook page.