# Religion

Mission for LA Priest: Saving Flock from Foreclosure

A Roman Catholic parish in California has one of the highest foreclosure rates in the nation -- one in nine homes is in default. Now, a priest, Rev. John Lasseigne, has made it his sacred mission to negotiate with banks and lenders on behalf of his flock.

# Religion

Prayers, Hymn Helped Man Survive on Ice Floe After Boat Sank

A 66-year-old fisherman who survived two nights in frigid temperatures on a pan of ice off northern Newfoundland said he repeatedly sang a church hymn, while hoping crews would find him.

# Religion

Imam Urges Muslims to Sign Organ Donor Cards

With Ramadan ending in the coming days, Imam Habeeb Alli is making a special point of what he calls the greatest act of charity a Muslim can make during this holy month – signing an organ donor card. Alli says his group drew on the writings of several top Muslim thinkers to show that the vast majority support organ donation.

# Religion

Alarmed by Tone of Public Debate, US Church Council Calls for Civility

Alarmed by the intensity of angry and sometimes violent language coming out of public meetings on healthcare and other issues, the National Council of Churches Governing Board has called for "civility in public discourse."

# Religion

Prison Inmates Meditate to Deal with Life Behind Bars

Kenneth Brown discovered meditation, yoga and Buddhist teachings three months into his 20-year sentence behind bars. Inmates say meditation -- an ancient practice that develops mental awareness and fosters relaxation -- is teaching them how to cope in prison.

# Religion

Wis. Priest Auctions Family Silver for Homeless

A Wisconsin priest is auctioning off his late mother's collection of old silver pieces to raise money for a homeless shelter he helps run. The Rev. Guy Blair, with his family's blessing, donated 14 silver items, including five sugar urns dating back to the 1790s.

# Religion

Lutherans Ask Forgiveness for 16th-century Persecutions

Leaders of the Lutheran World Federation have approved a statement apologising for the 16th-century persecution by Lutherans of Anabaptists, religious reformers whose successors are found in groups such as the Mennonites.

# Religion

Former Nun Unites All Religions with a Charter for Compassion

Karen's wish was granted, as she won the TED prize last year, and put the money to work in seeking and receiving input from thousands of people across the world about what should be included in the Charter for Compassion. She then gathered together eighteen very prominent world religious leaders who spent many more weeks writing drafts of the charter.