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Up with religion: Religion is now the most popular theme studied by historians, according to a member survey by the American Historical Association. Culture had previously taken the top spot in surveys over the past 15 years. A decade ago only 2 percent of job openings and fellowships posted with the AHA listed religion among the desired specializations; last year, 10 percent listed religion (Inside Higher Ed, December 21).

How wide is God's mercy? One of Shane Claiborne's non-Christian friends asked if Claiborne thought the friend was going to hell. "I hope not," replied Claiborne. "It will be hard to enjoy heaven without you." If we "do not believe God's grace is big enough to save the whole world," says Claiborne, "we should at least pray that it is" (www.esquire.com).