Harriet Riley

Harriet Riley is a New Orleans-based freelance nonfiction writer. She taught creative writing for many years. Harriet recently published articles in 64 Parishes and Bourbon Plus. She has her MA in print journalism from UT Austin. A lifelong Presbyterian, she is an active member at St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church.

“An authority for love”: Portland faith leaders stand with immigrants outside ICE facility

“People have said to me, ‘I didn’t know churches could do good things.’” In Portland, clergy are showing up daily to support immigrants and witness to hope at the ICE site.

Outlook Reporting

Churches prepare for hunger surge as SNAP benefits face historic cutoff

‘We are seeing the need increase greatly.’

CCTV Security Camera or surveillance operating on a city street against the background of a church

Outlook Reporting

What happens when ministry becomes a security risk?

PC(USA) churches seek to balance hospitality and inclusion amid new security concerns.

The Rev. David Black of First Presbyterian Church recoils as a U.S. Customs and Border agents deploy tear gas and pepper balls Friday at the Broadview ICE facility outside Chicago.Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times

Outlook Reporting

Chicago pastors confront escalating violence at ICE detention facility

Chicago Presbyterian pastors report pepper spray, rubber bullets and escalating force at ICE’s Broadview facility. Faith leaders demand accountability.

People walk by the Applacian Theatre's marquee promoting Hope After Helene.

Outlook Reporting

North Carolina town reclaims hope on Hurricane Helene anniversary

“Hope after Helene” brought North Carolina neighbors together for healing, reflection, and community — with music, art, resources, and a keynote on deep hope from David LaMotte.

Three Chicago ministers talk during a protest.

Outlook Reporting

Chicago Presbyterians push back on Trump’s troop plan

Churches and other nonprofits prepare for unrest, model faithful ways to support immigrants and city residents.

A group of youth walk around in a large convention center room holding celestial props.

Outlook Reporting

Young Presbyterians share a vision for the church at Triennium 2025

For the first time in six years, Presbyterian youth and young adults gathered in person to dream about the future of the church — and their role in it.