When doomsday prophet Harold Camping conceded last week that his failed May 21 end-of-the-world prediction was “incorrect and sinful,” the average American probably shrugged, perhaps even snickered. But for Bart Centre, Camping's mea culpa could have real impact on his bottom line. The co-owner of a business that promises to …

A few weeks ago I became enthralled by an article in the Wall Street Journal which highlighted the universality of community and shared meaning — values that are often fostered by religions. In the article, the author, Alain de Botton, writes about the loneliness of modern society and how, “we …

Last year, 23 Whitworth students spent four weeks in South Africa learning about the multi-ethnic people there as they continue to build a post-apartheid society. The class, “Contemporary South Africa,” examines the historical, social, political, and religious contexts of South Africa, according to a press release. The class focused mainly …

Taliban vow revenge for Afghan civilian murders The circle of violence ever spins, the sword is a poor tool of peace. It often ends up stealing the peace of the one wielding it.   What mystifies me is how the death of civilians is mostly overlooked as 'collateral damage' when …

American officials in Afghanistan are bracing again for another backlash, this time following the massacre of at least 16 Afghan civilians, mainly children and women, by a U.S. Army sergeant. The incident follows the accidental burning of a Koran and other religious texts by U.S. personnel, which led to outrage and …

Temple Beth Shalom drew its usual large crowd of about 2,000 people Sunday for its 71st annual Kosher Dinner. Diners enjoyed Kosher relishes, Challah, beef brisket, potato knishes, carrot tzimmes, Mediterranean spiced apples and chocolate rugalach while listening to live Jewish music. A gift shop was also set up, which …