Usha Vance may lend momentum to a rightward shift among Indian Americans and Hindus in particular, who, political analysts say, may be coming to view a Trump presidency as more receptive to the group’s political, economic and foreign policy goals. (Karmarkar, Religion News Service)
Read MoreWritten and directed by Mitch Hudson — a crew member for “The Chosen,” the popular film series depicting Jesus’ life — “The Promised Land” leans into the irony baked into the biblical narrative, using the “mockumentary” style made famous by hits like “The Office,” “Parks and Rec” and “Abbott Elementary.” Post, Religion News Service)
Read MoreRecent years have suggested that, in Hollywood at least, even infinity has its limits. The most recent Marvel movie, last November, was The Marvels — a title greeted with a shrug and less box office than The Nun II. It was Marvel’s 33rd film and, earning $206 million worldwide, its worst performer. The Marvels is part of a trend. While there have been hits, the time for certainty is over.(Dean, The Times UK)
Read MoreA political shift in LGBT policy is evident across the country this week. Legislation passed in California July 15 gives public schools the ability to conceal when students change their names and pronouns. On the same day, the Republican National Convention passed a platform that was stripped of “anti-LBGT” language, policy leaders say. (Porter, Baptist Press)
Read MoreThe true impact of the pandemic on local houses of worship continues to come into focus — from diminished attendance to changing tax laws to an overall decline in support for nonprofits. Yet, according to a new study, 61% of religious leaders report their congregation to be in excellent or good financial health, a significant increase from 2020. (Davis, Religion News Service)
Read MoreCountry music—a genre often ignored or even scorned by cultural elites—is having its biggest boom in 30 years, with an unusual number of artists topping the charts, dominating streaming, striking branding deals and selling out shows and festivals. (Shah, The Wall Street Journal)
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