Author: Christine Hedlin, Photography by Chris Jones

Jeff Leake, head of the Allison Park Church organization in Allison Park, Pennsylvania, was among many in the faith community that faced backlash after making public his COVID-19 vaccination this year. Photo: Chris Jones/100 Days in Appalachia
Jeff Leake, head of the Allison Park Church organization in Allison Park, Pennsylvania, was among many in the faith community that faced backlash after making public his COVID-19 vaccination this year. Photo: Chris Jones/100 Days in Appalachia

Political Conflicts Are Escalating in Sanctuaries of Southwestern PA Churches. Can They Heal?

Racism, abortion, same-sex unions, mask-wearing, vaccines. Churches could be sites of dialogue, pastors say. Now, they’re more polarized than ever. Rev. Jeff Leake, lead pastor of Allison Park Church, a multi-campus worship community just north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, posted about his first COVID shot on Instagram.  He meant his photo […]

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Christians Are Politically Divided. Two Pittsburgh Seminaries Explain How They’re Readying Pastors for the Minefield.

In the part of Appalachia near Pittsburgh, new pastors could have widely different experiences. They might be called to churches in the inner city or rural towns. They might serve 200-year-old legacy churches or start-up congregations. Their congregations may be active in the Black Lives Matter movement or participate in […]

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