ACU rebuffs the left and the right in reaffirming its sexual stewardship policy

One group petitioned the West Texas university to loosen its stance on same-sex relationships. Another pushed for tougher language. By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle ABILENE, Texas — For students at Abilene Christian University, the debate over traditional vs. affirming views on same-sex relationships is not purely theological. It’s personal. Whether they support the university’s sexual stewardship policy, which calls for chastity outside of marriage between a man and … Continue reading ACU rebuffs the left and the right in reaffirming its sexual stewardship policy

Landmark LGBT ruling: What it means for exemptions, evangelicals and the election

By Bobby Ross Jr. | Religion Unplugged Editor’s note: Every Friday, “Weekend Plug-In” features analysis, insights and top headlines from the world of faith. Got feedback or ideas for this column? Email Bobby Ross Jr. at therossnews@gmail.com. The U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark ruling Monday barring workplace discrimination against gay, lesbian and transgender workers certainly seemed to catch some by surprise. Take USA Today, for example. The URL on the national … Continue reading Landmark LGBT ruling: What it means for exemptions, evangelicals and the election

How to keep LGBTQ people from becoming ‘spiritual orphans’

At a three-day conference in Texas, parents and church leaders tackle faith and sexuality. Third Place, Convention or Meeting Coverage, Associated Church Press By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle DALLAS — Carrie Underwood’s “Love Wins” video played on the big screens as the E3 Conference opened at the Highland Oaks Church of Christ. “I believe you and me are sisters and brothers. And I believe … Continue reading How to keep LGBTQ people from becoming ‘spiritual orphans’

Pompeo’s Kansas church asks God to ‘give him strength’ in Senate confirmation process

“Mike has enemies because of his faith who may try to paint him in a poor light and make it difficult for him to reach the Secretary of State position,” the pastor of nominee Mike Pompeo wrote to his congregation. By Bobby Ross Jr. | For Religion News Service WICHITA, Kan. — Under fire from Muslim, Jewish and human rights groups for a record of … Continue reading Pompeo’s Kansas church asks God to ‘give him strength’ in Senate confirmation process

When adoption agencies can turn away gay prospective parents, what happens to the kids?

Those who study the issue say it’s hard to tell exactly how such rules governing adoption affect the numbers of children placed in “forever” homes.  By Bobby Ross Jr. | For Religion News Service OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma lawmakers may soon sanction private adoption agencies turning away same-sex couples and other prospective parents who don’t meet their religious criteria, a possibility cheered by the Roman … Continue reading When adoption agencies can turn away gay prospective parents, what happens to the kids?

After a rescinded invitation, Ken Ham talks about God at an Oklahoma university

Its president cited the historic commitment of the public university to the critical and civil examination of ideas, no matter how controversial. By Bobby Ross Jr. | For Religion News Service EDMOND, Okla. — Students at the University of Central Oklahoma got a lesson in free speech as the 16,000-student public university welcomed a presentation by Ken Ham, a nationally known creationist who rejects Charles … Continue reading After a rescinded invitation, Ken Ham talks about God at an Oklahoma university

Under new Texas law, faith-based adoption agencies win protections

Despite opposition from gay-rights groups, Lone Star lawmakers passed the Freedom to Serve Children Act. By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle ABILENE, Texas — At age 17, Jennifer Griffith discovered she was pregnant. The daughter of a pro-life advocate, Griffith knew she couldn’t abort her baby. Instead, the unmarried teen turned to Christian Homes and Family Services for help. The 55-year-old ministry — based … Continue reading Under new Texas law, faith-based adoption agencies win protections

One year later, Orlando victim’s mom urges: Show your children ‘all the love you have’

Bernadette Cruz’s 22-year-old son, Peter “Ommy” Gonzalez-Cruz, died in the June 12, 2016, mass shooting that targeted a gay nightclub. By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle ORLANDO, Fla. — She thinks of him every day — her beloved son Peter “Ommy” Gonzalez-Cruz. Yet even as she grieves, Bernadette Cruz pushes forward, relying on her friends, her family and her faith. Cruz’s cheerful, affectionate … Continue reading One year later, Orlando victim’s mom urges: Show your children ‘all the love you have’

In Orlando, a call for more openness, less fear

After gay nightclub massacre, showing love to LGBT community a focus at Christian conference. Second Place, In-Depth Reporting, Associated Church Press By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle ORLANDO, Fla. — Sally Gary couldn’t come to Orlando and fail to visit the site of the gay nightclub massacre where 49 people died. The founder of CenterPeace, a Dallas-based ministry that provides support and resources … Continue reading In Orlando, a call for more openness, less fear