As one without faith, this is an intriguing question. Being social animals, the need to belong is innate and fundamental to our natures. One could likewise say that the need to behave is essential as well, for without this our species would be self-destructive. Faith certainly serves to foster both …

Epictetus said, "Content yourself with being a lover of wisdom, a seeker of the truth." One could say this is the very purpose of Ryan Downie's life. What drives him, he said, is knowledge and understanding, an insatiable desire to learn.

As nearly 1,000 delegates from across the world gather in Tampa, Fla., for the United Methodist Church's General Conference, gay and lesbian activists have printed pamphlets promoting their cause in five languages, including Portuguese and Swahili.

A few years ago, a young mother posted some political points on her Facebook page. Other people from her church commented both negatively and positively and the whole exchange left the young mother so shaken she left the church. I did not find out what happened until weeks later when I asked if anyone had seen them. Since I really don't keep up with the large stream of information that goes through Facebook, I was uninformed. I missed them.

King James Bible exhibit at Whitworth.

This exhibition shows how important this book has been in history and helps audiences to develop a new understanding of its social, cultural, literary and religious influences over four centuries Amy Rice Whitworth exhibit highlights the King James Bible http://spokanefavs.com/culture/education/whitworth-exhibit-highlights-the-king-james-bible Tracy SimmonsTracy Simmons is an award-winning journalist specializing in religion …