Despite efforts by the federal and state governments to battle social distress, there are many people who still suffer from poverty and despair. People are calling out for help. For years, faith-based and community groups have been assisting these people and others in need. The federal government has not often been a willing partner to these…

To support faith communities in protecting teenage boys and girls from too-early sexual activity and teen pregnancy, the National Campaign To Prevent Teen Pregnancy's Task Force on Religion and Public Values has compiled these nine tips which summarize a wealth of experience and advice from faith leaders around the country. The members of the Task…

The Schools of Eskdale, a religious commune of the Order of Aaron, are attempting to escape the dualism and fragmentation so prevalent in public schools and show promise of becoming another viable alternative to secular schooling. (Author)

The National Catechtical Directory will be a pastoral and practical document that will be officially issued by the American Bishops. (Author)

Describes the services of the General Theological Library in Boston, Massachusetts, a nondenominational, ecumenical institution which provides mail order circulation of religious books for clients throughout the United States. (Author/JL)

Uses examples from the author's and others' experiences to describe techniques that "cults" use, including emphases on discipline, group identity, confession, constant activity, an unquestioned doctrine, and control of members' communications. Suggests high school courses be taught on cult methods, the Bible as literature, and…

Examines the efforts of conservative religious and political organizations to influence the schools. Argues that protection of inquiry in the classroom constitutes the first line of defense for the continuation of democracy during times of stress and change. (Author/IRT)

Examines recent court holdings concerning the schools and the celebration of religious holidays, the establishment of religious clubs and organizations, and the distribution of Bibles. (IRT)

Shows that application of the Fair Labor Standards Act and Title VII to religious organizations and lay employees does not violate the free exercise clause, whereas a blanket exemption might run afoul of the establishment clause. Available from University of Pittsburgh Law Review, 3900 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260; single copies $2.50.…

The role religious organizations and government agencies play in art sponsorship is examined. The importance of bringing art into the community and methods for accomplishing this are discussed. (RW)

Discusses the role of faith-based organizations (FBOs) in providing social services, examining the scope, scale, and effectiveness of faith-based social action. Explains that faith-based approaches are effective because they promote faith, rely on volunteers, are present in the community, and are holistic. Describes creative government-faith…

To ascertain the knowledge level and congruent practices among public college and university student-personnel administrators relating to reported court decisions based on the First Amendment religious clauses, questionnaires were sent to a sample of 250 administrators. Responses from 169 (68%) of the administrators are analyzed. (MLF)