• Cancer-Battling Families Receive Free S.C. Trips from Surfside Methodist Group

  Families dealing with a cancer diagnosis have a chance to put their worries aside and enjoy each other through free trips to Myrtle Beach, S.C., thanks to volunteer efforts of Surfside United Methodist congregants. Children who benefit from this missionary endeavor called "Jason's House" are referred by 14 hospitals in South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Georgia. Approximately 50 to 65 families receive the trip each June, July and August. After 31 years, the value of the vacations this

  

• Kenya Judge Upholds Use of Anal Probes to Define Sexuality for Gay Suspects

  A Kenyan court upheld the use of anal examinations to determine sexual orientation of men suspected of homosexual activity, which is a criminal offense in Kenya. Two men, after they were subjected to this type of exam as well as HIV and hepatitis B tests, sought a court ruling Thursday to halt future such procedures on men accused of being gay.

  

• Tennessee Public School Boards Draft New Policies for Religion Classes

  Williamson County school board members in Tennessee will vote on a preliminary draft of a religion policy Monday night (June 20). The course of action, as required by a new state law, reinforces the expectation that religion will be taught objectively.

  

• ‘Orange Is the New Black’ Teaches Lessons About Religion

  Netflix's successful drama set in a women's prison, "Orange Is The New Black," starts its fourth season, still introducing audiences to the themes of women's religious practice, community and identity.

  

• Assault Weapons' Ban Called for by Boston Globe #MakeItStop Editorial

  "There is no shortcut: If we want fewer gun victims, we need fewer guns," stated The Boston Globe through an editorial published Friday (June 17). "Prayers aren't enough."