New opposition to clergy-penitent privilege in cases of child abuse law call for injunction
Bishop Robert Barron has filed a legal brief urging a federal court to strike down Washington state’s SB 5375, a law requiring Catholic priests to report child abuse disclosed during confession. The law, signed in May by Gov. Bob Ferguson, eliminates the clergy-penitent privilege and threatens priests with prison and fines if they fail to comply.
A member of the U.S. Liberty Commission President Donald Trump established in May, Barron argues the bill violates the First Amendment and targets a central Catholic sacrament. The brief explains that in confession, the sinner receives healing and forgiveness from Christ Himself through the ministry of the priest, who is operating in the person of Christ.
Barron calls the law a direct assault on religious liberty, stating that all Americans should oppose this infringement. Multiple lawsuits from Catholic and Orthodox groups have been filed against the law, which takes effect July 27. The brief urges the court to stop the law from going into effect while the lawsuits are ongoing.
ELCA to elect new leaders at triennial gathering
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America will convene its 2025 Churchwide Assembly July 28-Aug. 2 at the Phoenix Convention Center under the theme “For the Life of the World.” The triennial gathering, comprising 845 voting members representing the denomination’s 2.7 million members, will elect new leadership as both Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and Secretary Deacon Sue Rothmeyer retire at the end of their current terms.
Key agenda items include consideration of a proposed social statement on “Faith and Civic Life: Seeking the Well-being of All,” which addresses Christian nationalism and the public role of ministers in political discourse, and proposed editorial changes to the church’s human sexuality social statement. Voting members will also review memorials from the ELCA’s 65 synods covering social justice issues including missing and murdered Indigenous women, Israel-Palestine discourse and racism dismantling initiatives, along with budget proposals for fiscal years 2026-2028.
Hate Crimes pilot hotline goes live
Washington recently launched a pilot hate crimes and bias incidents hotline in Clark, King, and Spokane counties. According to the FBI’s hate crimes statistics, Washington has been in the top five states with the most reported hate crimes since 2018. This initiative, created through 2024’s bipartisan Senate Bill 5427, aims to improve reporting and support for victims. The hotline (1-855-225-1010 or atg.wa.gov/report-hate) connects callers to culturally competent, trauma-informed resources and, with consent, local law enforcement.
The 18-month pilot will guide statewide expansion by 2027. Local leaders and community advocates support the effort, emphasizing the importance of validating lived experiences, supporting marginalized communities and improving public safety. The Attorney General’s Office will begin publishing annual data reports in 2027 to better understand and combat hate across Washington.
Idaho’s Catholic Diocese mourns with fallen firefighters
(THIS MAY BE DATED – But I saw this late) Bishop Peter F. Christensen of the Diocese of Boise released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragic ambush that killed two firefighters and seriously injured another as they responded to a wildfire near Coeur d’Alene. He condemned the senseless violence and honored the courage and sacrifice of the fallen.
He offered prayers and condolences to the victims’ families and communities. Christensen also recognized the bravery of law enforcement and first responders, stating their “courage and sacrifice reflect the love and service taught by Christ.” He urged unity, compassion and a rejection of violence, calling for a society rooted in justice and respect. Citing Scripture, he encouraged collective mourning and healing through faith and solidarity.
Seventh-day Adventist Church General Conference elects new president
Erton Köhler has been elected the 21st president of the General Conference (GC) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, becoming the first South American and second Southern Hemisphere native to hold the position. Elected during the 62nd GC Session in St. Louis on July 4, Köhler succeeded Ted N. C. Wilson, who led the church since 2010. Köhler, previously GC secretary and South American Division president, is known for media growth initiatives and strategic mission planning. In his acceptance speech, Köhler expressed humility, gratitude and a commitment to church unity and global mission, emphasizing faith in God and appreciation for diverse perspectives.
2nd Annual Latinx Pride Baile July 12
LATINX PRIDE
July 12th | 7pm | Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave
🌈💃 ¡Baile, orgullo y comunidad! 🎉🌈
The 2nd Annual Latinx Pride Baile in Spokane will take place at the Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave., on July 12. It will be a night full of rhythm, culture and love according to organizers. The 18+ celebration brings together the “comunidad with vibrant Folklorico, stunning drag performances, delicious food, local artisan vendors and dancing all night long.” Doors open at 7 p.m. and organizers suggest coming early for the food and to visit vendors. The Ballet Folklorico starts at 8 p.m., the Vida Amore Divas Show begins at 8:30 p.m. and after that it’s “puro baile/dance with DJ Motavation till close!” Tickets are $15 pre-sale and $20 at the door.
Endorsing candidates in church like ‘family discussions’ now, says IRS
The IRS announced that churches and houses of worship may endorse political candidates to their congregations without violating the ban on political activity by tax-exempt nonprofits. This statement, made in a court filing, stems from a lawsuit by two Texas churches and a Christian broadcasters group. The IRS now classifies such endorsements as private, like “family discussions.” Experts say this could significantly increase church politicking, raising questions about the broader impact and potential loopholes in nonprofit campaign regulations.
Some summaries created with help of AI. Staff still carefully edited material for content quality and publication standards.
