Niebuhr's Ghost, Sunday's Specter: Choosing Our National Theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, one of the most influential U.S. theologians, didn't succumb to simplistic responses to complex problems. By contrast, many today favor a religious flag-waving that hits certain hot-button moral issues.
"Get Low" In "Get Low," the reclusive Felix Bush (Robert Duvall) decides he's going to attend his funeral – alive. The movie reminds us that those we dismiss are people with feelings, longings and truth. (Photo: Sony Pictures Classics)
No One's Excluded From God's Party While the religious leaders of Jesus' day practiced exclusion and separation, Jesus reminded them – and us – that all are at the center of God's love in equal measure. No one is excluded.
What to Say When a Glenn Beck Believer Calls Glenn Beck's "black-robed regiment" is on the loose. His followers believe he knows the Bible and is armed with the truth. What will you say when they ask you where the Bible teaches social justice?
Glenn Beck Calls America Back – To a Generic God No amount of Bible reading, sermons masquerading as prayers and Christian hymns can cover up Fox News host Glenn Beck's civil religion that slides back and forth between authentic faith and patriotic religion. Robert Parham
Army Chaplain First to Die in Combat since Vietnam (RNS) A Baptist minister from Oregon who was killed in Afghanistan is the first Army chaplain to die in combat since Vietnam. Julie Sullivan and The Oregonian
"Winter's Bone" "Winter's Bone" is the story of a teen who gives up everything for the sake of two little ones and a mama who knows no better. It is film storytelling in one of its best incarnations. (Photo: Roadside Attractions) Mike Parnell
"Inception" The twists and turns in "Inception" propel it to the finest movie of this summer. Director and writer Christopher Nolan gives us a complex story that has a real heart at its core. (Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures) Mike Parnell
"Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work" The documentary "Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work" follows the show-business legend in her 76th year. The filmmakers deftly capture her insecurity, competitiveness, sensitivity and hard work. Cliff Vaughn
Israel, Palestinians Agree to More Talks - AP News
President Barack Obama's special envoy for Mideast peace says the leaders of Israel and the Palestinians concluded a productive first round of peace negotiations Thursday.
