March 26, 2004 - MPR's Tom Scheck reports on the debate over same-sex marriage as a civil rights issue. The civil rights argument has caused concern among some African American religious leaders in Minnesota, especially when they've heard it compared to the fight for racial equality. While they argue that the civil rights struggle is completely different than the gay marriage issue, others counter that one should look to history in considering discrimination.
April 6, 2004 - Clergy, corporate executives and politicians will take part in the 44th annual Minnesota Prayer Breakfast, held in Minneapolis. Governor Tim Pawlenty is expected to attend, along with former vice president Walter Mondale, CEOs, and a diverse set of ministers. This year's meeting occurs as an increasing number of employers are encouraging workplace discussions of religious values and ethics. In some places, that includes office prayer groups or on-site meditation rooms. Marylyn Carlson Nelson, CEO of Carlson Companies and the co-chair of this year's prayer breakfast says the growth of spirituality in the workplace is an outgrowth of several converging factors.
December 16, 2004 - As part of the series A Mirror on Morality, MPR’s Lorna Benson talks with six parishioners from Macalester Plymouth United Church in St. Paul about the 2004 elections. Five are gay, the other a lesbian. Exit polls suggest that many Christians cast their ballots based on moral concerns, including strong opposition to gay marriage. The six discuss that "moral values" influenced their voting too - just in a different way.
December 31, 2004 - Mainstreet Radio's Erin Galbally reports on a fundraiser to help bring living quarters up to date at a Rochester convent, known as Assisi Heights. The Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi have made Rochester their home for more than a hundred years.
January 17, 2005 - MPR’s Dan Olson interviews Minneapolis gospel singers Tonia and Cameron Hughes. After the death of husband/father David Hughes, Tonia and Cameron use singing together as a way to rebuild and provide renewed hope in life.
July 11, 2005 - MPR's Bianca Vazquez Toness reports on scouting and its appeal to Muslim girls. The scouts are adapting, changing their ways to attract and keep girls who haven't traditionally joined a troop, including the children of immigrants.
March 23, 2006 - MPR’s Tim Pugmire reports on a "People of Faith” rally at the Minnesota State Capital, where opponents of a proposed constitutional amendment to define marriage as between one man and one woman gathered at the state Capitol.
April 18, 2006 - All Things Considered’s Tom Crann talks with Jacob Reitan, director of the Soul Force Equality Ride; and Jay Barnes, Bethel University's Provost, about a visit of the cross-country bus tour by gay-rights activists to Bethel University.
December 21, 2006 - On the winter solstice, MPR’s Ambar Espinoza went searching for light outside of the obvious Christmas and Chanukah traditions. Paying homage to light this time of year crosses many religions and cultures.
May 11, 2007 - MPR’s Roseanne Pereira speaks with buddhist monks at the Gyuto Wheel of Dharma Monastery in Minneapolis, as they prepare to take part in a tantric choir performances in Minnesota.