Vatican firefighters install a chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel

Trump, brushing aside separation of church and state, establishes religious liberty commission
Politico: “We’re bringing religion back to our country, and it’s a big deal,” the president said.

Elon Musk finally meets the press and compares himself to Buddha
CNN: During the hourlong conversation, Musk admitted that DOGE has not yet met the $1 trillion in cuts he initially proposed. Instead, he said, he’s cut around $160 billion, and that it will be “really difficult” to reach his goal without more support in Washington.

Vatican firefighters install a chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel for the papal election
The Associated Press: Preparations for the conclave to find a new pope accelerated Friday with the installation of the chimney out of the Sistine Chapel that will signal the election of a successor to Pope Francis.

Explosions damage ship carrying aid to Gaza in the Mediterranean Sea*
The New York Times: A human rights group operating the ship blamed a drone attack for the explosions, which caused a fire on the vessel. The crew was safe and remained on board.

These women are giving their legislators a piece of their mind — one quilt square at a time
Religion News Service: Mormon Women for Ethical Government and its allies assembled 57 quilts to present to members of Congress on Wednesday.