By DANIEL BURKE c. 2011 Religion News Service WASHINGTON (RNS) New legislation proposed by a leading congressional watchdog would push the State Department to make international religious freedom a greater priority. Rep. Frank Wolf, R-Va., introduced a bill on Wednesday (May 11) that would boost the profile of the ambassador-at-large for religious freedom, require religious…

By ADELLE M. BANKS c. 2011 Religion News Service WASHINGTON (RNS) President Obama assured Hispanic Christians on Thursday (May 12) that he hears their pleas for immigration reform, calling it a “moral imperative” that requires action from the pews and the White House. “What I can do is sign a law,” he told more than…

By ADELLE M. BANKS c. 2011 Religion News Service WASHINGTON (RNS) A recent Navy memo that would permit military chaplains to officiate at same-sex marriage ceremonies upon repeal of the military’s Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell policy is creating tension amid an already fractious debate. “It is absolutely deplorable,” said the Rev. Billy Baugham, executive director of…

By NANCY HAUGHT c. 2011 Religion News Service (RNS) A Jesuit will be sworn in as the 60th chaplain of the House of Representatives on May 25, when he will become the first member of his order and second consecutive Catholic priest to serve the House. As chaplain, the Rev. Patrick Conroy will be in…

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