May 11, 2023, marks the end of the federal COVID-19 PHE declaration. After this date, CDC’s authorizations to collect certain types of public health data will expire. (CDC)
Read MoreRioting mobs have taken the lives of at least six people and destroyed or burned down 25 churches in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. Since May 3, thousands of victims, the majority of them Christians, have fled as their homes and businesses have gone up in flames. (Kaur, Christianity Today)
Read MoreThe White House announced more funding and policy guidance for developing responsible artificial intelligence ahead of a Biden administration meeting with top industry executives. (Kelly, The Verge)
Read MoreGov. Roy Cooper (D) plans to veto the bill, but Republicans, who hold a veto-proof supermajority in the legislature, have said they plan to override him. The bill could become one of the most moderate abortion bans enacted nationwide since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. North Carolina GOP lawmakers gained the supermajority when a state House Democrat switched parties last month.(González, Axios)
Read MorePope Francis… wants to end Ukraine’s armament by the West and negotiate an immediate cease-fire. Earlier this week, Francis vaguely alluded to a mission he was working on to end the conflict. Yet he seems to have alienated many of the actors whose support he would need to do so. (Allen, The Atlantic)
Read MoreDespite reports of declining worship attendance and religious affiliation, 6 in 10 Americans say that they pray, a new survey reports. A higher percentage — 85% — say they engage in a spiritual practice to connect with a higher power, whether prayer, meditation, mindfulness, reciting affirmations or spiritually based yoga. (Banks, Religion News Service)
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