The private letter, sent more than a year ago, may have had changed Mr. Kelly’s mind for a time.

50 years ago, black priests wanted to feel accepted for who they were: African-American clergy who could share a rich cultural heritage but were feeling suppressed by white-dominated church leadership.

The religious order said approval of the pipeline violated the sisters' right to practice their faith under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and they asked that it be rerouted.

After applying for an internship, I was told I would not be able to wear my religious habit. How could I reconcile this bias with my Catholic faith?

Dr. Shannen Dee Williams is uncovering the previously hidden lives of African-American women religious.

Under the title "#MeToo for All," Aid to the Church in Need has published an open letter to four famous actresses asking their help in publicizing the widespread sexual exploitation of women because of their faith.