News

Michigan Legislation Faces Opposition From Catholic Parish Over Hiring Policies

A Catholic church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is contesting a state civil rights law at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit. The church is apprehensive that this law might infringe on its religious rights regarding gender and sexuality matters.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish is seeking to prevent the state’s legal body from leveraging the Elliott Larsen Civil Rights Act, which might oblige the parish to employ individuals who disagree with Catholic perspectives on gender and sexuality. This plea comes after a lower court dismissed the church’s initial lawsuit.

While the state’s legal office has taken no formal actions against the parish, concerns arise due to recent changes in the law’s interpretation by the Michigan Supreme Court.

The law, established in 1977, underwent a significant interpretation in July 2022. It was then asserted that gender-based discrimination also encompasses discrimination stemming from sexual orientation or gender identity.

Christian Healthcare Centers, another entity challenging the state over this law, has also approached the same appellate court for recourse. Both these bodies are being defended by the Alliance Defending Freedom.

ADF’s senior representative, John Bursch, emphasized that Michigan officials ought to respect the religious liberties of organizations. He further highlighted the longstanding services of both entities to their respective communities.

The parish has expressed concerns that this fresh interpretation could tag its codes of conduct as “discriminatory.” This code necessitates employees to align with Catholic views on homosexuality and transgender matters.

Moreover, Christian Healthcare Centers worries that the new interpretation could compel them to hire individuals not adhering to Christian principles on sexuality. Additionally, they may be obliged to support gender transitions and use specific pronouns inconsistent with biological identities.

However, District Court Judge Jane Beckering dismissed these concerns. She stated that existing laws protect religious freedom and found no evidence indicating the state’s intention to curb religious liberty with this law.

Michigan’s Attorney General, Dana Nessel, lauded the court’s decision, emphasizing that the state’s laws account for religious freedoms. However, critics point out instances from her tenure where she seemed to challenge religious institutions.

News

Mel Gibson Calls ‘The Passion of the Christ’ Sequel “An Acid Trip”

Mel Gibson is back with a bold vision, revealing details about the long-anticipated sequel to The Passion of the Christ—and it’s going to be, as Gibson himself puts it, “an acid trip.” Titled The Resurrection of the Christ, the film picks up where the 2004 epic left off, with Jim Caviezel returning as Jesus, thanks to some CGI de-aging magic.

Gibson, speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience, shared that the script, co-written with his brother Randall Wallace, has been seven years in the making. It’s “super ambitious,” exploring everything from “the fall of the angels to the death of the last apostle.” According to Gibson, that means venturing into realms like Sheol and even hell itself, promising a story that’s anything but ordinary.

While admitting the project will be challenging, Gibson says he’s ready to step up to the plate. “I’m not wholly sure I can pull it off, to tell you the truth,” he confessed. “But I’ll take a crack at it.” With a potential release next year, this promises to be a cinematic experience unlike any other! Stay tuned for updates on this monumental journey.

For the full story, visit Relevant Magazine.

News

Conclave Writer Responds to Megyn Kelly’s ‘Anti-Catholic’ Claim

At the 2025 Golden Globes, Conclave screenwriter Peter Straughan responded to Megyn Kelly’s fiery critique calling the film “the most disgusting anti-Catholic film I have seen in a long time.” Straughan countered, saying, “I don’t think the film is anti-Catholic,” emphasizing its message about preserving the Church’s spiritual essence—something he considers deeply Catholic.

Director Edward Berger chimed in, explaining the film wasn’t intended as a “takedown” but as a human portrayal of Church leaders, highlighting their struggles and conscience. He welcomed the debate, noting that controversy can lead to meaningful conversations.

Now streaming on Peacock, Conclave dives into the drama of a papal election, unpacking themes of faith, power, and human imperfection. The film’s take on the Church has sparked heated discussions among viewers and critics alike.

For the full story, visit People.

News

Teen Tech Whiz ‘God’s Influencer’ to Be First Millennial Saint

Carlo Acutis, the teen tech whiz dubbed “God’s Influencer,” is on track to become the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint. Famous for his devotion to the Eucharist and his website cataloging Eucharistic miracles, Carlo’s faith and talent left a lasting impact.

With Pope Francis recognizing a second miracle attributed to his intercession in May 2024, his canonization is now set for April 2025 during the Jubilee of Youth. A modern saint for a digital age, Carlo continues to inspire Catholics worldwide.

For the full story, visit NPR.