• Pope Worries about Clash with Islam

  Pope Benedict XVI on Friday urged intensified dialogue with Islam, saying in a Christmas speech that 2006 will be remembered as a year marked by the danger of a clash between cultures and religions.

• DNA Test Fails to Tie Church Elder to Alleged Assault

  Bail was dramatically reduced for an East Hartford church elder charged with sexually assaulting a 10-year-old mentally retarded girl after new DNA tests.

• Tenn. Governor Criticized for Muslim Christmas Card

  Tennessee's governer is getting some criticism for the Christmas card he sent. As in the past, this card features a painting by Gov. Phil Bredesen.

• N.J. Gov to Sign Gay Unions Bill

  New Jersey is moving to become the fifth state in the nation to institute civil unions. Once joined in civil union, gay couples will gain adoption, inheritance, hospital visitation.

• Baptist Megachurch Pastor Attacked for Handling of Alleged Abuse

  Sexual abuse allegations have led to the suspension of a longtime minister at Bellevue Baptist Church and to at least one call for the church's senior pastor to step down.