Hi ReligionUnplugged readers,
Punjab, in northern India, is a state primarily populated by Sikhs — but in the villages of Kutba Bamaniya, a mosque is a symbol for peace and unity among people.
A group led by Buta Singh, villagers are working to protect both the physical structure of the mosque and its legacy. In a similar spirit, Zaffar Iqbal reports that over 165 mosques have been rejuvenated in recent years in today’s top story.
“This kind of brotherhood should prevail across India. Love must be nurtured, and animosity must dissolve,” one villager said. “Humanity’s values should take precedence, and compassion towards one another should prevail.”
Sikh-Hindu Collaboration Revives Mosques in Indian Villages
In the serene landscapes of Punjab’s Barnala district in the northern part of India, the melodious Muslim call to prayer resounds throughout the day. While communal tensions and clashes occasionally make headlines, a different narrative unfolds in the villages of Kutba Bamaniya and beyond. Amid this backdrop, a pre-partition mosque stands tall as a symbol of history, resilience and a shared commitment to coexistence. by Zaffar Iqbal
Britain’s Faith Museum And 6,000 Years Of History: Renaissance Amid The Coal Mines
The Faith Museum will explore how religion has shaped lives and communities across Britain throughout history. Religion Unplugged contributor Dr. Jenny Taylor meets the wealthy financier who is turning a semi-derelict English mining town into an international showcase of art and faith. Part of the outcome of all this investment is the opening of the museum on Oct. 6. by Dr. Jenny Taylor
Francis-Strickland Fight Preview Of What’s To Come At Next Month’s Synod
(ANALYSIS) Another week and yet another headline about Pope Francis feuding with a doctrinally conservative American prelate. It’s become an all-too-common story and one that the legacy media often can’t resist. by Clemente Lisi
Trudeau Links India To Slaying Of Sikh Separatist Leader In Canada
(EXPLAINER) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused “agents of the government of India” of carrying out the assassination of a Sikh leader in British Columbia. Trudeau’s comments, which took place before the House of Commons on Monday, pointed the finger for the shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar at India’s government “in no uncertain terms” based on intelligence reports. by Clemente Lisi
Mormons (And People Of Faith In General) More Likely To Be Fraud Victims
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ furtive investment strategy ultimately resulted in it being fined by the SEC earlier this year. The move likely stemmed from a deeply rooted belief that by keeping a low profile and minimizing how much it shared about its inner workings, the church could avoid criticism from hostile outside forces looking to attack it. by Emma Penrod
‘A Haunting In Venice’ An Entertaining Film, But Also A Missed Opportunity
(REVIEW) “A Haunting In Venice” is fun for people who like whodunnits and Kenneth Branagh’s interpretation of Hercule Poirot — but it can’t pay off the themes of faith versus reason that it sets up. The film once again features Branagh’s return as both director and star in his third outing of movies based on Agatha Christie’s novels. The movies have had lukewarm reception from both critics and audiences, but have made enough money and been enjoyable enough for Branagh to make another one. by Joseph Holmes
Religion And National Identity Linked In Southeast Asian Countries
Many Americans may think Buddhism is a philosophy tied to mindfulness and yoga — but across much of Southeast Asia, being Buddhist is an important part of national identity, a new study reveals. The same is also true of the region’s Muslim-majority nations. by Clemente Lisi
Reshaping America's Soundtrack: Gangstagrass’ Role In Bridging The Religion Divide
(OPINION) In a divided America, music is just another means of dividing based on political affiliation and race. While country music has the image of being “All-American,” hip-hop often sheds light on the social injustices to minority people. When listening to music, it can seem as if there is no unity among people from different backgrounds. However, Gangstagrass is fighting back against that narrative by bringing people from two different genres together. by Princess Jones
Sikh Temples A Lifeline For Flooded Areas Of The Himalayas
In the devastating Himalayan floods in India’s Himachal Pradesh, Sikh temples have emerged as bastions of support and assistance for those affected by the calamity. As nature unleashes its fury, gurdwaras — places of assembly and worship for Sikhs — across regions hit by flooding have opened their doors, hearts and kitchens to provide essential services. by Shadab Farooq
🙏 Do Post-Pandemic Houses Of Worship Have A Prayer? New Reports Offer Insights 🔌
In this week’s Weekend Plug-in, Bobby Ross Jr. highlights new survey findings concerning post-pandemic worship attendance and giving. Plus, as always, catch up on all the best reads and top headlines in the world of faith.
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Thanks again for reading!
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