Pope Francis undergoes hospital checkup after coming down with the flu

Pope Francis went to the hospital Saturday for tests after he came down with the flu, but the results ruled out any respiratory problems, the Vatican said.

M. Russell Ballard, prominent Mormon leader, dies at 95

One of the highest ranking leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, M. Russell Ballard, has died. He was 95.

Diwali record set as millions of Indians celebrate amid air pollution worries

A “hazardous” 400-500 air quality level was recorded last week, but unexpected rain and wind improved the air on Diwali. But levels are expected to soar again after the celebrations.

Finding Faith: How 'Superman' helps feed the needy in New Jersey

Most Saturdays, rain or shine, people line up at the make-shift food pantry in the back parking lot of The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Church in Wallington, New Jersey. The church is part of the Archdiocese of Newark. 

Largest Hindu temple outside India in the modern era opens in New Jersey

After 12 years of planning and construction, the largest Hindu temple outside India in the modern era is ready to open to the public in Robbinsville, New Jersey.

Increased security at synagogues across NYC despite lack of credible threats

While there are no credible threats, authorities have increased security at synagogues all across New York City following the deadly Hamas terror attack in Israel.

Tennessee pastor dies during Ironman triathlon

Tragedy struck during the Ironman 70.3 Memphis triathlon as a pastor lost his life while participating in the event.

Pope Francis suggests blessings for same-sex couples

Pope Francis has suggested there might be ways to bless same-sex unions. The Vatican on Monday published a letter Francis wrote to five cardinals on July 11 after receiving a list of five questions, or “dubia,” from them a day earlier.

Chipotle faces federal lawsuit over allegations of religious harassment and retaliation

A federal agency has sued the restaurant chain Chipotle, accusing it of religious harassment and retaliation after a manager at a Kansas location forcibly removed an employee's hijab, a headscarf worn by some Muslim women.

Pew: Religious groups concerned over decline of marriage in US

55% of Evangelical Christians say fewer people getting married will have a negative impact on the nation, while only 4% say it will result in a positive effect.

Finding Faith: One man's journey to religion after rescuing woman on 9/11

On September 11, Paul Carris saved Judith Toppin's life by guiding her out of the World Trade Center. That act of kindness led him to a new appreciation of faith and a new life.

Muslim call to prayer can now be broadcast publicly in NYC without a permit

Mayor Eric Adams said Tuesday that mosques no longer need a special permit to publicly broadcast the Islamic call to prayer, or adhan, on Fridays and at sundown during the holy month of Ramadan.

7 in 10 US adults believe in angels, AP poll finds

More than astrology, reincarnation, and the belief that physical things can have spiritual energies.

New Jersey teen admits posting broad online threat to synagogues

Omar Alkattoul, 19, of Sayreville, pleaded guilty to transmitting a threat in interstate and foreign commerce. He faces up to five years in prison when he's sentenced.

Supreme Court backs designer who objects to making gay couples’ wedding websites

In a defeat for gay rights, the court ruled 6-3 for designer Lorie Smith despite a Colorado law that bars discrimination based on sexual orientation, race, gender and other characteristics.

Supreme Court makes big decisions with more to come: Here's what to know

The Supreme Court is expected to announce major decisions Friday on Biden's student loan forgiveness program and a case that impacts gay rights.