Topic: Templeton Prize

NIH Director Francis Collins, through his non-profit BioLogos, released "A Christian Statement on Science for Pandemic Times." The statement uses biblical verses to argue that wearing masks and getting vaccinated are acts of "loving thy neighbor" and following Jesus' command. Critics labeled the document "blasphemous" for equating public health mandates with religious duty.

Former Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks received the $1.5 million Templeton Prize for his contributions to spiritual life. In an interview, Sacks argued that multiculturalism has led to "sleepwalking into segregation" by replacing national identity with tribalism. He distinguishes between a "society at home" with a shared identity and a "society as a hotel" where groups remain segregated.