Free Republic

MOUNT CLEMENS – Some people still take off right after Communion at St. Peter Church, but not as many now that they have to walk under signs that read "Judas left early too." Fr. Cooney says putting the signs up at each of the three exits was "a bit of Irish diplomacy" aimed at addressing a long-standing source of frustration for many Catholic priests: people who leave Mass early, rather than staying for the dismissal. Perhaps one of the reasons the signs had a positive effect is that he introduced them with humor, rather than scolding the congregation, he believes....

Auburn, Wash., June 11--The Rev. Lee Phillips attempts to nurture his flock through a religious philosophy that draws from Christianity, yoga and classical meditation. And the occasional toke Phillips, a 52-year-old Auburn resident, says that his church, registered with the state as a non-profit known as The Center for Healing and Spiritual Renewal, mandates the use of marijuana for "healing, communion, spiritual unity and physical well-being." He is ordained by the Religion of Jesus Church, founded in Hawaii 40 years ago, as a "cannabis sacrament minister." Call him a minister of marijuana. In addition to its religious significance for him,...

EATONVILLE, Fla. - Former Vice President Al Gore on Sunday urged black voters "to walk through fire" to cast their ballots, testifying to his experience during the Florida recount of 2000. "If anybody ever tells you that one vote doesn't make a difference, ask them to come talk to me," said Gore, who two years ago lost the presidential election to George W. Bush in part because of the electoral debacle in Florida. That line, repeated at three Orlando-area black churches, was met every time with applause and cries of approval. Democrats have long regarded black voters as a crucial...