Ep 8. Religion in Cuba; Women's Mosque of America; Upanayanam
- July 23, 2015
Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly season 18 episode 8 explores three different religious practices from around the world. The first segment delves into the religious landscape of Cuba, where Catholicism remains the dominant faith despite the rise of other religious groups such as Santeria. Through interviews with Cuban locals and religious leaders, the segment examines the complex relationship between religion and politics in Cuba, as well as the challenges facing the religious community under the country's socialist regime.
The second segment focuses on a new mosque in Los Angeles called the Women's Mosque of America. This unique mosque, founded and led entirely by women, seeks to provide a safe and welcoming space for Muslim women to worship and connect with one another. The segment explores the motivations behind the mosque's founding and the challenges faced by its founders, as well as the positive impact the mosque has had on the community.
The final segment of the episode explores Upahayanam, a traditional Hindu rite of passage for young boys. The ceremony marks the transition from childhood to adolescence and involves a sacred thread ceremony in which boys are given a sacred thread and initiated into various spiritual practices. Through interviews with Hindu families and religious leaders, the segment offers a glimpse into the rich spiritual traditions of India and the important role religion plays in the lives of many Hindu families.
Overall, Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly season 18 episode 8 offers a diverse and insightful look into religious practices from around the world. Through compelling storytelling and nuanced reporting, the episode provides viewers with a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of religion in modern society.