churches

Oklahoma Watch, March 26, 2025

Last week, wildfires raged across Oklahoma, claiming thousands of acres of land and hundreds of buildings. KOSU's Sarah Liese reports for StateImpact that the flames also destroyed a historic church in Kiowa County, leaving a congregation to rebuild.

In Kansas and nationally, debates over transgender rights and inclusion are playing out in faith communities.

Every week, thousands of faith leaders across Texas share religious teachings with their congregations — and some even offer political guidance.

Some Oklahoma churches are providing comprehensive sex ed to fill gaps in a state that doesn’t require it in schools.

For nearly 70 years, federal law has barred churches from directly involving themselves in political campaigns, but the IRS has largely abdicated its enforcement responsibilities as churches have become more brazen about publicly backing candidates.

Many churches in Kansas, particularly Catholic parishes, have gotten involved in a campaign to change the state constitution removing a right to an abortion. But state law says “electioneering” can’t be done within 250 feet of a polling place door or within the building during election hours.

House Bill 1239 made it illegal for government to shut down churches.

"Everywhere in the world, music enhances a hall, with one exception: Carnegie Hall enhances the music." —Isaac SternIt all started with a YouTube clip.…

In the United States, churches and religious organizations are supposed to be above politics. In fact, churches can risk losing their tax-exempt status if…