Christianity

Supporters say the bill would expand placement options for children in state custody, while critics worry it could shelter bad actors — following years of abuse allegations at unlicensed boarding schools in Missouri.

Many of the area’s faith communities are making detailed plans to ensure that everyone has religious support while they’re here. Large congregations are also working on unique ways to connect with the World Cup.

Bills proposed by Republican legislators in Missouri include posting the 10 Commandments in classrooms, history lessons that frame religion in a positive light and allowing students to leave school for religious education.

“Faith, Family, and Flag” by Washington University professor Joanna Dee Das explores how Branson, Missouri, became America’s capital for conservative entertainment.

The members say the Herzog Charitable Foundation, a Missouri-based organization dedicated to "advancing Christian education," has triggered scrutiny of their political beliefs and personal lives. That’s resulted in professional consequences, social media harassment and an investigation from Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office.

The Satanic Grotto sought a permit at the Kansas Statehouse to protest "Christian favoritism within our state government." State officials say they denied the permit because of safety concerns, after the group's last protest ended with several arrests.

As a second-year middle school teacher, Alana Washington knows how much trauma her southeast Kansas City students can go through on a daily basis. She started the Save a Life Mentorship to foster an environment where students can find a home within themselves.

NPR's Sarah McCammon is out with a new book that dissects how she left the religion of her youth titled "The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living and Leaving the White Evangelical Church."

Brian Kirk lost his position on a volunteer library board over his support for LGBTQ+ rights. Progressive residents say the incident has revealed discrimination in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Brian Kirk lost his position on a volunteer library board over his support for LGBTQ+ rights. Progressive residents of St. Joseph say the incident has revealed discrimination in the city.

In June of this year, 96 Kansas congregations left the United Methodist Church over mainly LGBTQ issues.

The push to remove Brian Kirk is being led by a conservative pastor in the same city. The conflict has already prompted St. Joseph to change how it appoints members of city boards.