Diocese of San Bernardino issues dispensation saying Catholics who fear ICE don’t have to attend Mass
The Diocese of San Bernardino is the first in the nation to formally lift the obligation for Catholics to attend Mass in response to immigration detentions on church property.
Catholics are usually obligated to go to Mass on Sundays and other holy days. But Bishop Alberto Rojas has paused that requirement in San Bernardino for people who may fear immigration raids.
The San Bernardino diocese told the National Catholic Reporter that immigration agents carried out detentions on two of its properties in June.
Catholic leaders across the country say they’re witnessing steep decreases in Mass attendance in response to immigration actions taken by the Trump administration.
The Diocese of Nashville said in May that Catholics aren’t obligated to go to Mass if it puts their safety at risk. San Bernardino — a diocese of over a million Catholics — is the first to issue a special dispensation.
This story was produced through a collaboration between NPR and Religion News Service.
Memphis and Portland, Ore. brace for troops. Why Chicago might be next
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said the Department of Homeland Security has requested for 100 military personnel to help protect ICE agents and facilities in his state.
5 takeaways from the U.S. ceasefire proposal for Israel and Hamas
The leaders of the U.S. and Israel say they have agreed to a broad plan that could end Israel's war in Gaza. But substantial uncertainties remain.
Government to shut down after midnight barring last minute breakthrough in Congress
Democrats and Republicans have been unable to resolve an impasse over federal healthcare spending. The government will shutdown at the end of the day on Tuesday barring a last-minute breakthrough.
As sports betting explodes, should states set more limits to stop gambling addiction?
With concerns about addiction rising, some advocates and lawmakers call for federal regulations on the gambling industry — but would settle for more state laws to help curb excessive betting.
Trump, Hegseth to headline a highly unusual gathering of top military officials
It is highly unusual to bring in military leaders from across the globe to one central location. The president said the meeting would discuss "esprit de corps."
EV sales surge in the U.S. ahead of Sept. 30 tax credit deadline
A $7,500 tax credit is available for the lease or purchase of many electric vehicles — but only if contracts are inked by midnight on Sept. 30. The result: The market for EVs is a little distorted.
