From Pope Leo to Charlie Kirk, a look back at this year's biggest religion stories

By Jason DeRose,

Roxanne Stone

Published December 29, 2025 at 4:10 PM EST

The first American pope, the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, and clergy-members' response to the Trump administration's immigration crackdown are the top religion stories of 2025.

Jason DeRose

Jason DeRose is the Western Bureau Chief for NPR News, based at NPR West in Culver City. He edits news coverage from Member station reporters and freelancers in California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Alaska and Hawaii. DeRose also edits coverage of religion and LGBTQ issues for the National Desk.

See stories by Jason DeRose

Roxanne Stone

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