Shahla Farzan

Churches are taking extra precautions regarding the coronavirus, as practices such as passing the peace through handshakes and drinking from the common cup at communion could spread the illness.

Scientists are pushing hard to find a more effective way to prevent nearly all seasonal flu strains with one shot. For starters, they're paying volunteers to spend a 10-day stint in "Hotel Influenza."

Violence at houses of worship in recent years has congregational leaders adding security. But the move is sometimes at odds with their beliefs and their missions to the communities they serve.

As the percentage of Americans who belong to a church, mosque or synagogue declines, congregations are selling their buildings. Some of those former houses of worship are finding new life.