The bishops' decision formalizes a yearslong process for the U.S. church to address transgender health care. They also approved a special message on immigration, expressing concern over enforcement and conditions in detention centers.

Writers--some with bylines in the Times — and LGBTQ advocates have signed open letters accusing the paper of biased coverage.

Women often bear a heavier burden at times of crisis. They take care of the kids, the house, the survival of families. NPR photographed and interviewed 19 women over 3 weeks. Here are their stories.