IN THEORY:
Bearing arms in church

Recent church shootings have sparked discussion among various church officials on the possible need to carry weapons to religious services. The premise behind this is that churches are no longer seen as immune from violence as they once were. Do you believe that people should carry guns in church for protection or do you believe officials are over-exaggerating when they say churches are no longer safe? Do you think churches have done enough to try to curb violence? What do you believe churches should do?

FAMILY FAITH:
Some teens need a lesson in compassion

What is happening with our teens in this generation? I have worked with adolescents for years as a youth pastor and therapist. My personal and professional experience with teens has been thoroughly enjoyable.

IN THEORY:
Militant approach to Christianity

Newsweek magazine reported this week that a civil rights watchdog group is accusing the military of using its presence in Muslim countries to spread Christianity among the population, a “serious” violation of military protocol. What implications are there for those people who suddenly see themselves staring at the cover of a Christian Bible and are pressured into believing in something they don’t? What actions should the military take, both at the command level and rank-and-file, to prevent this from happening?

FAMILY FAITH:
Self-control is key to curbing sin

I came across the following portion of scripture two times in the past week — in two different Bibles. It is about living our lives in the spirit, where we can find the most contentment and joy. I know that there are often reasons we have certain portions of Scripture cross our paths. It spoke to my heart and I pray it speaks to yours as you read today.

IN THEORY:
Dealing with intolerance

Last week’s shooting at the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., exposed that the nation’s virulent strain of racism and racial hatred continue decades after the civil rights movement. What role should religion play in the ongoing effort to stamp out racism? And how, if at all, have churches failed in that effort so far?

FAMILY FAITH:
Allow Christ to make positive changes

Christians are supposed to be different from those who have not had a life-changing experience. For many, finding faith in God does change them drastically. I have seen some individuals give up habits and addictions like drugs and alcohol, infidelity, pornography, lying, and the like. But for others, there is a poor representation of Christ in the way they live their lives.

IN THEORY:
Interpretation of the text

According to a recent article in the Catholic weekly Our Sunday Visitor, today’s young adults struggle to engage in life outside the digital realm. How can teens stay connected without losing touch with the outside world?

FAMILY FAITH:
One’s good deeds should be memorable

How do you want to be remembered? When your family reflects on your life, and people whose paths you have crossed think upon your name, what do you want them to remember? Selfish, hospitable; rude, friendly; harsh, kind; egocentric, or one who served God?

IN THEORY:
Getting to the roots of your heritage, faith

On a recent Sunday in L.A.’s Boyle Heights, which in decades past was a large Jewish enclave that has more recently become home to Latinos, the Mexican- American-Jewish family marked the 61st anniversary of Israeli statehood at “Fiesta Shalom.” How important is it for people to know not only their heritage but the roots of their religion, and how does your church or temple encourage its faithful to do so?

FAMILY FAITH:
God is there to love you, in good times and bad

Who would you say loves you most in your life? You may know the answer I am fishing for, the accurate answer: God.

IN THEORY:
Providing guidance in needy times

Local churches for months now have reported a precipitous increase in the number of congregants seeking help.

FAMILY FAITH:
Don’t let little things come between friends

As you reflect on your life, can you think of any relationships that have been cut off because of hurt or misunderstanding?

Previous Religion Headlines