Happy Friday! As always, here’s your weekly roundup:
Boko Haram militants reportedly killed thousands in Nigeria in a recent attack. Amnesty International says satellite images show widespread, catastrophic destruction and a high death toll.
The French government deployed 10,000 troops to protect Jewish schools and sensitive sites in France this week, following last week’s Charlie Hebdo attacks. Unity marches in France this weekend drew more than three million demonstrators and more than 40 world leaders.
The Vatican on Monday rejected reports that it could be the next target of Islamist terrorists, with its chief spokesman stating, “We are adopting an attitude of caution and attention, but there is no sign of any specific risks.”
The Supreme Court may decide as early as today whether to enter the same-sex marriage debate. Its eventual ruling could clear the way for same-sex marriage nationwide.
Duke University backtracked on its initial plan to broadcast a Muslim call to prayer from the Duke chapel bell tower after unspecified security threats and web protests led by evangelist Franklin Graham.
A bestselling book detailing a young boy’s story of visiting heaven after he was injured in a car crash is being pulled from shelves, as the boy said this week that he made the story up.
And now for the papal rapid fire roundup:
This week, Pope Francis:
- Said killing in the name of God is “an aberration.”
- Also said you shouldn’t insult other people’s faith.
- Told moms it’s OK to breastfeed in the Sistine Chapel.
- Went to the Philippines.
- Met some Jesuits.
- Defended the church’s ban on contraception.
- Rode in this Jeepney.
- Lost his hat. Again.
- Doesn’t want you to swear at his mom.
Before you go: Do you think “heroism” drives church mission trips? Please read this essay and take our survey.
