The fight reflects a larger American phenomenon: Churchgoers increasingly want decisions to be made at the local level, not by a national denomination.

© Desiree Rios for The New York Times

The feminist icon thought many women would carry on her legacy. But at an unsteady time for feminism, how will the movement carry on?

© Nina Westervelt for The New York Times

For many Americans, Ms. Parton represented an idealized style of faith: one centered in small rural congregations that prize community over ideology.

© Will Crooks for The New York Times