HK pastor defies court to conduct same-sex marriages

Kuala Lumpur: A transgender pastor has vowed to officiate same-sex marriages in Hong Kong despite a legal challenge failing to provide assurances that he will not face arrest. Marrz Balaoro was arrested in 2017 for holding such marriage ceremonies in the LGBTS Christian Church which he founded in the global financial hub in 2014. Charges were eventually dropped. reuters

97-yr-old's unique b'day celebrations at Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv: Ester Wienrib rang in her 97th birthday this week with a video call and remote cake-cutting with her great-grandchildren - a cautious celebration as her family tries to avoid exposing her to Covid. Israel, which has nearly 300 confirmed cases, has urged its citizens to keep their distance from older relatives. "I am healthy," she said. reuters

US lawmakers seek return of Tennessee pastor from India

Washington: A group of four US lawmakers has requested Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla to ensure the return of Tennessee pastor Bryan Nerren who was arrested last year with USD 40,000 of undeclared currency. Nerren was arrested in West Bengal's Bagdogra in October 2019. pti