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The Journey from Slavery to Freedom, Twice Told

For Rabbi Capers C. Funnye, the Passover story resonates racially as well as spiritually.  As one the few black rabbis in the United States today, he explains that the ancient Exodus story has captured the imagination of many oppressed peoples over the centuries, including African-Americans.

Rabbi Capers C. Funnye, Rabbi of Beth Shalom B’nai Zaken Ethiopian Hebrew Congregation in Chicago

 

Equal Rites for Catholic Women

Begins at 22:50

 

For decades, Catholics who wanted women priests wrote theological treatises, lobbied bishops and demonstrated outside cathedrals.  Now, with the help of Roman Catholic Women Priests, about 50 women have figured out a way to become ordained —and a few have even started parishes.

Rev. Andrea Johnson, Annapolis, Md., liturgy presider, homilist

Rev. Rose Marie Hudson, St. Louis, Mo., liturgy concelebrant

Rev. Elsie McGrath, St. Louis, Mo., liturgy concelebrant

Aisha Taylor, Executive Director, Women’s Ordination Conference

 

 

The Theology of Polygamy

Begins at 37:31 

It began as a revelation to Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church.  In his study of the Old Testament, the Mormon prophet noted that all the great Hebrew Patriarchs had more than one wife.  Smith sought to restore that ancient order—starting with himself.  He was reported to have more than 30 wives, including Emma Hale Smith (pictured.)

 

Though the Mormon Church officially rejected plural marriage in 1890, it continues to be practiced by fundamentalist sects,  not associated with the Church.  This week we explore the theology of the practice with the foremost non-Mormon scholar of the Mormon Church. 

Dr. Jan Shipps, professor emerita at Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis

Oy, the Miracles of Passover Coke

Begins at 48:22

 

Every spring before Passover, Coca-Cola plants in Chicago, New York, Atlanta and other cities whip up a tiny batch of soda that's Kosher for Passover.  The run lasts about two weeks and has been known to sell out in less than 24 hours. But why is this Coke different from all other Cokes?   Last year, Laura Kwerel went down to West Rogers Park, in Chicago, to find out.

 

To find your own bottle of Passover Coke, look for two liter bottles with a yellow cap and the OU-P symbol (pictured.) L'Chaim! More tips