By FāVS News Staff
Idaho teens missing possibly due to family’s religion
An Amber Alert has been issued for Allen Fisher, 13, and Rachelle Fisher, 15, who disappeared from Monteview, Idaho, on June 22. Authorities believe their disappearance may be linked to religious beliefs and the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). Their mother, Elizabeth Roundy, who has full custody, suspects older FLDS-affiliated siblings, including 18-year-old Elintra Fischer—missing since January 2023—may have taken them. The teens were last seen in traditional FLDS clothing and may be headed to a community in Trenton, Utah. Authorities are unsure if they remain nearby or left the state. Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement.
Camp Cross to begin construction on new cabins and retreat center
In 2023, the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane’s Camp Cross celebrated 100 years of ministry. This milestone was marked by a major building campaign to update the camp with a retreat center and 32 new cabins. This week, the Diocese announced the funds are in place and construction will begin soon. The camp received a $350,000 Murdock grant and raised over $3 million from 297 donors, with every congregation in the diocese represented. Despite challenges such as rising construction costs, trade-related increases and strict building codes, the team remained committed and has now signed a contract for a $3,043,316. Construction will cause some disruption, but summer programs will continue. The diocesan Foundation has offered up to $500,000 in additional support if needed.
Whitworth announces new MFA creative writing program
Whitworth University announced its new low-residency Master of Fine Arts in creative writing program, the Whitworth Writers Workshop. Beginning each January and July/August, this 44-credit MFA intends to be a faith-informed literary community through alternating tutorials and residencies. Directed by poet Mischa Willett, the program emphasizes creative growth, critical thinking and spiritual engagement. Five 10-day residencies include workshops, guest speakers and in-person sessions. The program reflects Whitworth’s mission to unite artistic craft with cultural and communal enrichment.
Spokane’s Hindu Temple invites community to special pooja
The Spokane Hindu Temple will celebrate Jagannath Yatra Pooja June 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are inviting the community to join them when they seek the “divine blessings of Lord Jagannath” with love, light and devotion. The event includes a feast afterward. The temple, 11115 E. Montgomery Drive, Spokane Valley, asks that attendees RSVP online.
Golden Rule vigil to happen at downtown Federal Building
Faith Leaders and Leaders of Conscience of Eastern Washington and North idaho are hosting another “Golden Rule” Truthful Tuesday Vigil on July 1, from 12:10 to 12:50 p.m. Like their previous event on June 24, the vigil is not a protest but a reflection or prayer to lament the current national immigration policies. More specifically, they said, it will be “a time to listen, grieve, hope and connect with our shared humanity. … when we appeal to everyone, in every setting, to treat others the way we would want to be treated.” Unlike last week’s event, this vigil will take place at the Federal Building, 920 W. Riverside Ave., downtown Spokane. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page.
Some summaries created with help of AI. Staff still carefully edited material for content quality and publication standards.
