Items of interest from various sources of religious news and opinion, in print and on the web.
Engineered Babies? Scientists in the UK and Japan claim to be nearing a breakthrough that would allow human reproduction using lab-grown sperm and eggs. The Guardian reports that researchers have already created viable mouse offspring from stem-cell-derived gametes, and human trials may be only a few years behind. Advocates say the technology could help infertile couples and others. Critics warn of profound ethical risks, including designer embryos, biological parenthood without consent, and the possibility of reproduction untethered from natural limits. One researcher admitted the field is moving so quickly that “society hasn’t caught up.” The article urges lawmakers to begin serious debate before science outpaces regulation. Devlin, Hannah. “Lab-Grown Sperm and Eggs Could Revolutionize Reproduction—If Society Allows It.” Reproduction. TheGuardaian.com, 5 July 2025. Web. 29 June 2026.
The Two-Parent Edge. A recent analysis in The Liberal Patriot argues that children raised by two married parents enjoy measurable advantages across education, income, and long-term stability. The author calls this the “two-parent privilege,” noting that it persists across race, class, and geography. While acknowledging that single parents often work heroically, the piece stresses that family structure remains one of the strongest predictors of child well-being. Despite the data’s clarity, political leaders typically avoid the topic, considering it “politically radioactive,” leaving families to struggle without honest guidance or policy support. The author urges a renewed cultural and political commitment to strengthening marriage and reducing family fragmentation. Vassallo, Justin. “The Two-Parent Privilege Is Real.” Book Review. LiberalPatriot.com, 2 Feb. 2024. Web. 29 June 2026.
Common NFL Moment that Broadcasters Don’t Want You to See. A Daily Caller feature highlights a striking trend: postgame prayer circles at midfield have become one of the most consistent rituals in the NFL, yet major networks rarely show them. Players from opposing teams routinely kneel together, thank God, and publicly invoke Jesus Christ. Though a feature of nearly every NFL game, broadcast networks routinely cut away from these moments in an effort to scrub overt religious expression from the televised narrative. Despite media avoidance, however, the practice appears to be growing. One observer called it “the loudest silence in the stadium.” Powell, Andrew. “Jesus First: The Trend in the NFL That Networks Keep Ignoring.” Editorial. DailyCaller.com, 19 Jan. 2026. Web. 29 June 2026.
Some members of the Minnesota Pastoral Conference and their families