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Christian healing group censored by ASA

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:57:18 +0000

A Bath-based group of Christians called Healing on the Streets (HOTS) has been contacted by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

The organisation, which claims to have witnessed many people being physically healed has been told to remove these claims from its website and the leaflets it distributes.

HOTS founder Paul Skelton said: “All over the world as part of their normal Christian life, Christians believe in, pray for and experience God’s healing; our ministry, in common with many churches, has been active in praying for God‘s healing (of Christians and non Christians) for many years.

“Over that time the response to what we do has been overwhelmingly positive, and we find it difficult to understand the ASA’s attempt to restrict communication about this. Our website simply states our beliefs and describes some of our experiences.”

Mr Skelton claims he tried to reach a compromise with the ASA but that the advertising standards body was trying to make the group “recant” its Christian faith.

HOTS has lodged an appeal against the ruling, which says that it cannot “make claims which stated or implied that, by receiving prayer from their volunteers, people could be healed of medical conditions”.

The HOTS team will be back in action outside Bath Abbey between 11am and 1pm on March 1 and Mr Skelton said the group will continue to pray for people who require healing during this two-hour period.

One Child, One Day, One Prayer

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:00:56 +0000

A new case of child abuse is reported every 10 seconds. Thousands of incidents of child abuse are not prevented, not acted upon, or even missed altogether. There are currently approximately 46,700 on child protection plans in the UK. In 2010/2011,

· Almost 50% of children and young people said they had been bullied

· Just under 10% of children and young people had experienced serious neglect in some form

· Just under 7% of children and young people had experienced physical abuse in some form

· Just under 5% of children and young people had experienced contact sexual abuse

· One average, 56 children are killed every year due to the actions of others

These are only the statistics we know about. There are thousands more unknown cases across the UK every day. 2012 is the year for change; One Child, One Day, One Prayer is a national prayer initiative which seeks that change.

On 1^st March this year, at 1pm, Christians all over the country will stop and each pray for one anonymous child/ young person who has been, or is, the victim of child abuse. Put the date in your diaries and take part in the prayer movement, joining thousands of other Christians from around the UK. Remember to pass the message on to friends, family, and any other Christian you know. It is only by joining together in prayer that we can make a difference.

Child abuse happens more often in the UK than we care to imagine. It's time for that to change! One Child, One Day, One Prayer is about praying for that change! One 1st March at 1pm, we aim to get as many people as possible to stop and pray for one anonymous child in the UK who is, or has been the victim of child abuse. It is through coming together in prayer that things will change.

If you have any questions please email onechildonedayoneprayer@gmail.com.

Follow @1C1D1Pon twitter for more information coming up.

Watoto Children’s Choir to perform at Norfolk church

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:59:13 +0000

The Watoto Children’s Choir is to perform at a free concert hosted by Downham Market Christian Fellowship. The concert will take place on February 17 at 7.00pm in the Sovereign Centre, Downham, Norfolk.

Many of the choir’s members are orphans that have been rescued by Uganda-based Christian charity Watoto. These children are being cared for and educated in the charity’s Children’s Villages.

The "Beautiful Africa: A New Generation" tour will visit UK, Canada, South Africa, Australia and the US. The vibrant choir, which will also perform dance routines and recitals, is to give a special performance at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Downham Market Christian Fellowship spokesperson Nam Tong told Network Norwich: "It is so exciting for Downham that such an internationally acclaimed choir will be performing in our town.

"I hope that many local people will take the opportunity to come along to what will be a thoroughly enjoyable and wonderful experience".

Unicef: India celebrates polio-free year

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:18:17 +0000

India, once recognised as the world’s epicentre of polio, has registered a full year without any cases of the debilitating disease. The last case was recorded on January 13, 2011.

Although it is now likely India will officially be deemed to have stopped indigenous transmission of the virus, Unicef claims the country must be vigilant in order to guard against any importation of polio from the three remaining polio-endemic countries: Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria.

Each year, more than 170 million children under the age of five are vaccinated in India, with up to 70 million children in the highest-risk areas vaccinated multiple times.

According to Unicef, these efforts will save hundreds of thousands of children from lifelong paralysis and even death each year.

Unicef executive director, Anthony Lake, says: “India’s achievement is proof positive that we can eradicate polio even in the most challenging environments; in fact, it is only by targeting these areas that we can defeat this evil disease.

“We have the ability to protect every last person, especially children, from this entirely preventable disease and, because we can, we must finish the job of eradicating polio globally, once and for all."

A new course for the Alpha male

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:56:31 +0000

The basics of the Christian faith will be explained and debated at a new Alpha Course starting on February 9.

The first session will take place at St Paul’s Church, in Lincoln Road, at 7.15pm and is open to men and women of all ages from all backgrounds.

Church spokesperson Val Watkinson told Sorted: “The Alpha Course is a low-key, relaxed way of exploring the Christian faith. Whether it is just a few enquirers or a large group, some food will be shared before listening to a talk based on a key issue relating to the Christian faith.

“There is then an opportunity to ask questions and express opinions; to listen, learn, discuss and discover more together over one evening a week for approximately ten weeks. Try it out - over two billion followers can't all be wrong!”

For more information, contact the Rev Ron Watkinson on 01733 314117 or by email at revronkingdomyouth@btinternet.com.

Pastor criticised for sex-filled marriage guide

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:58:26 +0000

Pastor Mark Driscoll’s new book has met with mixed reviews from Christians and non-Christians alike.

Real Marriage: The Truth About Sex, Friendship And Life Together has been criticised for its explicit content, for “misogynistic” views and for deliberately trying to shock readers.

Co-written with wife Grace, the Seattle-based church leader covers a series of sexual taboos including anal sex, oral sex, masturbation, teenage sex, sex toys, role play, cyber sex, marital sexual assault, pornography and sex-related medication.

The book runs through a range of sexual acts and asks whether, based on Bible teachings, they as lawful, and then debates whether they are helpful or “enslaving”.

Chapter 10 actually comes with a warning, recommending that readers who “are older, from a highly conservative religious background, live far away from a major city, do not spend much time on the internet or do not have cable television” might wish to read the book sitting down.

Pastor Mark told CNN: “This is not just stuff that I have pulled out of my mind... These are issues I have dealt with for 15 years and it is battle tested.”

Published by Thomas Nelson, Real Marriage hit Amazon and Barnes & Noble top sellers' lists when it officially launched in early January.

Tebow thanks God for Denver Broncos win

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:41:35 +0000

Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow has given the glory for his part in the game-winning touchdown on January 8.

Having done little in the second half against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and trying desperately to recover from a three-game funk, a stunning 80-yard touchdown pass from Tebow landed in the arms of receiver Demaryius Thomas, who clinched the 29-23 win in overtime.

Tebow chased after Thomas in celebration before getting down on one knee to thank God; a gesture that has become known as “Tebowing”.

Commenting on the game, Tebow said: "First of all, 'Thank you, Lord,' and then I was running pretty fast, chasing him [Thomas] -- like I could catch up to [him]. Then I just jumped into the stands, first time I've done that.

“That was fun, and then I just got on a knee to thank the Lord again and tried to celebrate with my teammates and the fans.''

Racism still prevails in the UK, claims Doreen Lawrence

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:37:59 +0000

Despite welcoming the conviction of Gary Dobson and David Norris for the murder of Stephen Lawrence, his mother Doreen Lawrence believes more needs to be done to prevent further incidents from occurring in the UK.

It has taken almost 19 years to bring any of the murderers in this case to justice, exceeding the length of time Stephen lived.

Mrs Lawrence told The Guardian that "thousands of families" were still being denied justice by the police. She believes racial prejudice prevented the police from carrying out a proper investigation in the wake of the brutal 1993 murder.

"All I have kept on saying is that I don't want any special treatment, just to be treated as you would want to be treated. When police dealt with me the colour of my skin made a difference," Mrs Lawrence said, adding, “we are just one family among hundreds of thousands still suffering."

In fact, Mrs Lawrence believes racism may be increasing in the UK. The plaque in South London commemorating her son’s life has been deliberately damaged on many occasions.

"I do feel occasionally that things are rolling back,” she told The Guardian. “After the inquiry there was a sense that all the institutions wanted to do the right thing; they wanted to change. But I don't hear people talking like that anymore.

"I don't know whether they believe that it's been accomplished, that racism has been eradicated, but the reality is that it hasn't. What's happened is that racism still exists but it is not so overt, that doesn't mean it is not still there and in some ways it is worse having it underground."

"After 18 years we are still struggling and we shouldn't have to," she concluded.

Britain is a “Christian country” affirms David Cameron

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:24:33 +0000

David Cameron has publicly confirmed that Britain is a Christian country and “should not be afraid to say so".

Marking the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible in Oxford, the prime minister said that voicing this was not about “doing down other faiths”. He defended the role of religion in politics and said the Bible, in particular, was crucial to British values.

Although his views were decried by some humanists and secularists, it was welcomed by the Muslim Council of Britain. Sheikh Ibrahim Mogra told the BBC: "It's very seldom I get excited by what our prime minister has to say, and this is one of those times. As Muslims we also believe in the Bible.

“We believe in the teachings of Jesus. Not only that, but in the teachings of all the biblical prophets, including Moses in the Torah. So this is something that we feel is absolutely in tune with the Muslim thinking. We have to base our behaviour according to Scripture; God's revealed message.”

Liverpool showcases new take on the Nativity

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 01:01:39 +0000

Volunteers from across Liverpool have joined forces to present a Nativity production "with a Scouse flavour".

A Down To Earth Christmas 2011 (ADTEC) is currently being performed at the city's famous St George's Hall.

According to In Another Place, the productions' organisers, ADTEC 2011 is designed "to bring the people of Liverpool together and promote the true meaning of Christmas".

The show runs December 14-16 at 5.30pm and 7.45pm. Tickets costs between £3 and £7.

Time for ethical lenders to step up, claim Christian banks

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:55:43 +0000

Managers from two major Christian banks have spoken out against irresponsible attitudes within the UK banking sector.

Chief executive of the Salvation Army's Reliance Bank, Trevor Smith, told The Independent: "When I joined the Institute of Bankers, the profession was about probity, integrity and 'my word is my bond' and over the last 30 or 40 years that has been corrupted by competition... The moral balance just seemed to go and this greed culture came in."

Kingdom Bank’s interim chief executive, Chris Sheldon seems to agree. He claims customers are now looking to bank with organisations that are straightforward in their dealings and dedicated to high ethical standards. “We wouldn't know a derivative if it bit us on the backside," he told the paper.

Mr Sheldon left his job at NatWest in 2002 because he wanted to do something more valuable with his skills, while Mr Smith worked at Barclays before joining Reliance.

Reliance gives at least 75% of its profits to the Salvation Army, while Kingdom donates 10% of its profits to the company’s parent charity and a further 10% to other Christian causes.

"A number of people who have lost faith in the banks on the high street have come to us," Mr Smith claims.

Rick Perry vows to end Obama’s “war on religion”

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:14:22 +0000

Republican presidential candidate Rick Perry has vowed to end President Obama’s "war on religion" if he takes up residency in the White House.

Texas Governor Perry said: "I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m a Christian, but you don’t need to be in the pew every Sunday to know there’s something wrong in this country when gays can serve openly in the military but our kids can’t openly celebrate or pray in school.

"President Obama declared early in his campaign for the White House that he is a Christian. We were led to believe that he was a supporter of the Purpose Driven teachings of California pastor Rick Warren.

"But it didn't take long to discover that the only Sunday morning activity President Obama did on purpose was drive golf balls.

"The evidence of his White House attacking the Christian faith, however, is plentiful."

It was President Obama who declared in an e-mail to CBN News that 'whatever we once were, we’re no longer just a Christian nation'."

According to news reports, these comments were met with widespread approval from many Christians across the US.

In a speech to the Republican Jewish Coalition, Governor Perry said: "Bringing America back starts with faith. Faith in the Almighty, who created [us]. Faith in our friends and allies, in a time of trouble; faith in each other to not give up hope."

Food bank to help hungry families in Weymouth

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:38:26 +0000

A Christian couple in Weymouth have opened a food bank to provide emergency food parcels for those struggling to feed their families.

Those in need of emergency rations can obtain a voucher from social services, nurses and care organisations. This will entitle them to collect a food parcel from Weymouth Baptist Church, which is designed to last three days.

Bob and Lilly Mockett say they were inspired to set up the food bank because the Bible instructs people to care for the poor.

Mrs Mockett told the Dorset Echo: "It's mostly needed when people’s benefits are being held up. We’re not here to feed people for any length of time; it’s really just for people who can’t feed their family.

"We've looked to start before Christmas because it’s such a difficult time for a lot of people financially but unfortunately it won’t be running until January.

"In exceptional circumstances we will buy food and give it to people in the meantime. I wouldn’t want anyone to go without over Christmas."

Christian Bale turns down Noah role

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:36:19 +0000

According to reports, Christian Bale has decided not to pursue the lead role in Darren Aronofsky's film based on the life of Bible hero Noah.

It seems the English actor is too busy filming for Lawless and Knight of Cups to take on the role.

Pundits are expecting Michael Fassbender to play Noah in the film, which will offer a modern take on the story of the biblical figure who built an ark to save his family and the world’s animals on God’s command.

Although no contract has yet been signed, rumours were sparked after Fassbender and Dark Swan director Aronofsky reportedly met to discuss the role.

Fassbender has appeared in many well-known productions including: X-Men: First Class, Jane Eyre, Inglourious Basterds, Hunger, Murphy's Law and Band of Brothers.

Filming for Noah is expected to start in spring 2012.

Littlehampton Gazette column suggests church and state are intrinsically linked

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 10:30:10 +0000

The Littlehampton Gazette’s latest Christian Comment column urges Christians to recognise the many ways politics, both national and local, heavily influences everyday life.

Its author, Rob Ferguson, admits: "In the past, I have been less than enthusiastic about politics, [e]specially at a local level. But I have changed my mind and am glad to own up to my mistake."

Retired GP Ferguson is chair of the trustees of the Acorn Pregnancy Counselling Centre. He has met the last three mayors of Worthing – Noel Atkins, Anne Sayers and current mayor Ann Barlow – as a result of his work with the centre.

"My connection with Ann Barlow goes back at least ten years. She and her family come to Hosanna church in Broadwater where my wife and I also go," Ferguson explains. This has given me the chance to see how much of her spare time Ann has put in over the years on local council business."

Acorn has also brought Ferguson into contact with Tim Loughton, one of Worthing's MPs. "In October he came to visit our office in Warwick St and to hear about what we seek to do for the needy in our community," writes Ferguson. "Here was a busy man, the minister for children and youth, fitting in an hour or so en route from Chichester to Lancing.

"He was attentive, fun, astute and with a great memory for detail. I couldn’t help but be grateful for someone so committed to working for the public good."

Ferguson claims media reports "do us a disservice when they highlight the mistakes of our politicians".

However, he adds that the onus on Christians across the UK is to "pray regularly" for MPs, local councillors and civil servants, whose "commitment and thoroughness affects how our local authority, our county and our country is run".

TKC to hold three Christmas services

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:20:38 +0000

The King's Church Mid-Sussex (TKC) has announced it will hold three Christmas services on December 18 this year.

At 9.30am and 11.30am, visitors and church members can enjoy music from the TKC Gospel Choir and the TKC Kids Choir.

Children will be invited to take part in the TKC Kids Alive programme while gifted speaker Adrian Holloway delivers a seasonal message. The service will be followed by coffee and mince pies.

For those who can’t make the morning celebrations (and for those who can), an evening service will be held at 7.00pm. The TKC Gospel Choir will play once again and TDK’s lead elder, Jim Partridge, will speak. Mulled Wine will be available after the service.

All three services will be held at Clair Hall in Haywards Heath, West Sussex.

German Christians fight for minimum wage

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:32:13 +0000

Chancellor Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has approved a plan to implement a German minimum wage, a concept that has been contested for several decades.

"There are people in Germany working two or three jobs and still don't have enough money in their wallets. That is unacceptable," the Chancellor said at a CDU convention in Leipzig. The response to her announcement was overwhelmingly positive.

"No one would have imagined even a year ago that the CDU would agree to a minimum wage," a delegate at the meeting told The Wall Street Journal. "We have finally realised that it is part of the Christian perspective to recognise the worth of a worker is more than EUR3 an hour."

Although specific figures weren’t mentioned, it was suggested that current temporary labour wages could potentially be used as a guideline. Temporary work in Germany currently pays EUR6.89 an hour in eastern Germany and EUR7.79 an hour in western Germany.

Egyptian Christians injured during commemorative march

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:22:42 +0000

According to reports, 29 people were injured in Cairo on November 17 during a march designed to honour the 25 people killed on October 9 when Christian protesters clashed with army troops.

The Coptic Christians were marching towards the city's iconic Tahrir Square on Thursday when violence broke out. Stones, glass and Molotov cocktails are believed to have been thrown as missiles.

Riot police were called to the scene and those in the procession quickly dispersed. The majority of injuries were minor, with 24 people reportedly discharged from hospital after receiving treatment for cuts, bruises and fainting spells.

Christians account for around 10% of Egypt’s 80 million-strong population.

Liverpool church refutes homophobia claims

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:32:12 +0000

Liverpool’s Frontline Church has issued a statement responding to claims that it is homophobic.

A row erupted when housing association Plus Dane severed ties with the church because of its perceived views on same-sex relationships.

Plus Dane particularly took issue with Frontline’s L.I.F.E sessions, which aim to help "Christian men and women out of homosexuality" and its now-defunct Homosexuality Fact Sheet, which has also angered gay-rights groups.

Church leaders admitted the statements in the fact sheet were "simplistic", but made it clear that everyone is welcome at their Wavertree-based centre.

The statement says: "We are unequivocally not homophobic. Firstly, none of our services (church and projects) discriminate against anyone on any basis and we are unconditional in offering support to all service users.

"We respect everyone’s right to hold their own views and don’t ask service users to adhere to our Christian values or even ask project users what their views are. All are welcome to our Sunday services whoever they are.

"We agree that the fact sheet is somewhat simplistic and could lead to prejudicial stereotyping if taken wrongly, and that is the last thing we want. That is why the Fact Sheet has not been on our website for some time and we took it down because we did not feel it was a constructive reflection of such a complex issue.

"The Fact Sheet was written under the auspices of a staff member some years ago and he has subsequently left.

"Liverpool L.I.F.E. Ministry is an internal pastoral support group for Frontline Church members who have requested extra support around their own sexuality.

"Our views on homosexuality as a church leadership are in line with [the views of the] Evangelical Alliance, of which Frontline is part and which represents more than two million Christians in the UK.

"We adhere to standard orthodox Christian teaching within the church and our heart on this matter, as with all others, is to let our members decide what their own views are.

"Our projects, like Foodbank, Streetwise and CAP offer unconditional help to anyone in need of their services and volunteers do not ever force their own views and don’t discriminate against anyone seeking to access our services on any basis.

"Our projects are predominantly funded by church-giving trusts, grants and smaller funding bodies.

"Again, Christian views are not forced on anyone in these projects which simply seek to demonstrate care and understanding to every service user.

"Every bit of funding we have been given in the past by public agencies and otherwise has been used solely for the purposes for which it was given."

Abuse has devastating effect on attitudes toward the Church

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 14:19:58 +0000

According to a survey from Olive Tree Media, abuse is the chief obstacle to Christianity in Australia.

More than three-quarters of respondents said church abuse was a “massive” or “significant” negative influence on their attitudes towards Christianity and the Church.

The data showed that the top ten most off-putting aspects of Christianity for non-Christians were: abuse, hypocrisy, judgmental behaviour, ‘religious’ wars, suffering, financial issues, the perception that it is old-fashioned and irrelevant, the concept of hell and condemnation, the rejection of homosexuality and the need for exclusivity.

The survey revealed that 51% of respondents were “not open at all” to changing their religious world view, and that parents and families were by far the biggest influence on perceptions and opinions of Christians and Christianity (67%), followed by mass and social media (25%) and networks and relationships (24%).

Around 42% of those surveyed said Jesus was an ordinary man who had no divine powers and 17% said he did not exist at all. While 80% of respondents believe that Jesus died on a cross, only 52% believe he rose from the dead.

Commenting on the findings, Sydney’s Anglican Archbishop, Peter Jensen, said: “Christianity, as you know, is a communication religion. We believe in the Word and the spreading of the Word…

“The whole business of translating the text into the language of the people is part of the genius of the Christian gospel.

“The first thing I noticed as a communicator is how ill-informed the audience is. My expectation of what people know is far higher than what, in fact, the research has indicated.”

'Remember the poor' run highlights needs of those in debt

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:52:57 +0000

The founder of a charity helping people with spiralling debt problems across the UK is running 15 marathons in 15 consecutive days.

John Kirkby, 50, of Christians Against Poverty (CAP) set off on November 8 to run five marathons in the UK followed by five in Australia and five in New Zealand.

As he runs, he will take with him the Bible-inspired message of “remember the poor” which he believes has never been more relevant as the UK copes with the economic downturn.

“I'm doing this run to remind us all that no matter how bad things get for the majority of us, they are so much harder for people living with real poverty,” said John, who founded CAP 15 years ago after financial problems of his own.

“When you haven't got a lot to start with, it takes very little to throw your finances into crisis and it is up to all of us to make sure that even when times are hard, we don't give up helping those who struggle to achieve the most basic standard of living.”

The UK marathons take place in Edinburgh, Newcastle, Nottingham, London and then in Bradford, where CAP's headquarters are based.

Multi-award winning charity Christians Against Poverty offers a uniquely in-depth and free debt counselling service delivered in the client's home thanks to partnerships with local churches.

In the past 15 years, CAP has grown from one man with a £10 donation working from his bedroom office to a UK network of 190 debt help centres currently carrying £71 million of clients' secondary debts.

With more than a third of clients saying they felt suicidal over their debts, it can truly be said that CAP's service is a life-saving one.

15 Marathons in 15 Days

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:37:24 +0000

15 Marathons

If you have heard anything about John Kirkby (CAP's Founder) you will know that he has gritted determination and a 'nevertheless' spirit, which pushes him to achieve all that God has set before him. That’s how CAP got off the ground 15 years ago to grow from nothing to the international charity it is now.

To celebrate 15 years of CAP, John has set himself a huge personal challenge to raise over £500,000. He will run 15 marathons in 15 days in three countries.* He will run a marathon then host a fundraising dinner for five consecutive days in the UK. Then he will fly to Australia, get off the plane and repeat the process in five cities in Australia, before flying to New Zealand for another five marathons and dinners. Watch the video to find out more.

John will be running marathons in:

UK – Edinburgh, Newcastle, Nottingham, London, Bradford

Australia – Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney

New Zealand – Whangerei, Christchurch, Hawkes Bay, Waikato, Auckland

All this will be happening in November 2011 – keep an eye on this page in the coming months for training updates and video blogs. You can support John by sponsoring him - just click 'give now' on the left hand side of this page.

We are grateful for the support of sportshoes.com, who have provided the team running clothes and footwear for the marathons.

*There will travelling time between countries, meaning the total duration of John's event is 19 days, but the 15 marathons will be completed over 15 days.

SGM Lifewords launches free Christmas card campaign

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:30:00 +0100

SGM Lifewords has launched an initiative to promote the Bible message this Christmas, with some unique Christmas cards, available from www.sgmlifewords.com.

The cards feature part of the Christmas narrative, themed with one word from a series of twelve chosen to tell the whole story of the Bible.

The cards are free, but are designed to challenge senders to use them as an opportunity to share the real Christmas story.

SGM Lifewords spokesperson Danielle Welch explains: "Very simply, this is an opportunity to share something of the Christmas message, and hopefully spark people’s imaginations about the story the Bible tells.

The cards are available free as a gift from SGM Lifewords for you to give away."

Third Day support Habitat for Humanity dedication

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:13:18 +0100

Grammy-winning rock band Third Day is to headline at a Habitat for Humanity dedication on October 21.

The Christian housing charity has invited the band to attend the public dedication of its 'Apostle Build' home in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Volunteers from several local churches including Anchor Community Church, The Chapel, First Assembly of God, Grace Presbyterian, Resurrection Lutheran and United Methodist Taskforce also supported the project.

“We are excited to have Third Day join these churches in dedicating the Naing home," said Justin Berger, Fort Wayne Habitat executive director. "And we hope to continue growing future Apostle Builds through partnerships with other area churches in order to serve many more families in need.”

Christian band Third Day has won four Grammies since the band was formed in the early nineties. Current band members include: lead singer Mac Powell, guitarist Mark Lee, bassist Tai Anderson and drummer David Carr.

After playing at the Habitat for Humanity event, the band will perform an evening concert at the city’s historical Embassy Theatre.

A quarter of US believers are “Far from Christ”

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:27:35 +0100

According to a new survey, just under a quarter of US believers are Christians in name alone.

The survey, carried out by a group called Changing the Face of Christianity, comprised ten multiple choice questions. These questions yielded scores which, when totted up, split respondents into four categories: “Far from Christ", "Worldly Christian", "Good Christian" or "Spiritually Mature Christian".

The answers showed that 23.7% of the 2,000 self-proclaimed Christian respondents fell into the “Far from Christ” category.

"When posed with a real world situation which tests their faith, they tend to do what the rest of the world does, instead of living as Jesus instructs," says R Brad White, the non-profit organisation’s founder.

However, Mr White claims the research was not designed to be condemnatory.

"To be clear, these aren't 'bad' people,” he says. “The score results suggest they think much more about themselves than they think about God and other people.

“Reading the Bible and praying aren't a common practice. These are people that you would probably be surprised to find are Christian, if it weren't for the cross around their neck.”

But rather than giving them up as bad job, he believes the organisation’s job is to focus on those who are struggling with their faith.

“These people are in the sweet spot of where we need to do our work,” explains Mr White. “We are here to walk alongside them, love them, educate them, mentor them and guide them into living their faith through their words and actions."

Christian Aid invites Joseph Ndanema to speak in Norwich

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 16:11:57 +0100

Development secretary of the Methodist Church in Sierra Leone, Joseph Ndanema, is to speak at Chapelfield Road Church in Norwich on November 6 at 6.30pm.

Having been invited to England by Christian Aid, Mr Ndanema’s aim is to create new links with British churches and to raise money for development projects.

Funds raised will be used to improve a hospital in Kailahun. The hospital currently lacks trained staff, ambulances, and a reliable water and electricity supply.

Eustace Mensah, Christian Aid’s programme officer for Sierra Leone and a co-worker of Mr Ndanema’s, is scheduled to speak at Holy Trinity Church on the same day at the same time.

For more information, email ewilley@christian-aid.org or jbryant@christian-aid.org.

Bible ban at Christian café overturned

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 10:35:47 +0100

The owner of a Christian café in Blackpool was recently ordered to stop displaying Bible extracts on a television screen because the words were deemed offensive and a crime under section 5 of the Public Order Act.

Jamie Murray, who runs the Salt and Light cafe in Layton, was told there had been a complaint about "homophobic material".

Lancashire Police said it was compelled to act on the complaints it received but apologised for its misinterpretation of public order law.

"I was quite incredulous at the way they treated me," Mr Murray said after the incident. "There was very little respect and they were quite aggressive."

Commenting on the police action, former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe said that displaying the Bible and disagreeing with homosexuality should not be illegal.

In her weekly column for the Daily Express, she said: "Does the Chief Constable of Lancashire want to ban the Bible itself? After all that is the logic of his position if what his force is doing meets with his approval."

She added: "You can of course describe quite freely any unmarried heterosexual couple as living in sin and conversely those who think marriage an outdated institution are free to poke fun at those who enter matrimony, but homosexuals now have such a privileged position that they are held to be above criticism."

Christian charity can hire and fire on religious grounds

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 09:14:33 +0100

A new ruling in the US means Christian charity World Vision is allowed to hire and fire workers based on their religious beliefs.

Three employees were dismissed in 2007 in a dispute over the charity’s requirement that employees believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ and the doctrine of the trinity.

Silvia Spencer and Vicki Hulse had worked for World Vision for ten years, while Ted Youngberg had been employed there for almost two years.

Their case was referred to the Supreme Court, but the court refused to take up the suit, which contested the charity’s ability to ignore religious discrimination laws because it is a Christian organisation.

"Today's action by the US Supreme Court represents a major victory for the freedom of all religious organisations to hire employees who share the same faith -- whether Muslim, Buddhist, Jewish, Christian, or any other religion," the president of World Vision, Richard Stearns, said on hearing the news.

"Our Christian faith has been the foundation of our work since the organisation was established in 1950, and our hiring policy is vital to the integrity of our mission to serve the poor as followers of Jesus Christ."

UK is 70% Christian, according to new survey

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:32:42 +0100

Nearly 70% of people who responded to the Office for National Statistics’ Integrated Household Survey claimed to be Christian, although many admitted they never go to church.

Fewer than a quarter said they had no religion and only one in 12 follows another religion.

The survey showed that almost 90% of over-65s are Christian. But even in the ‘least religious’ age group (25- to 34-year-olds), 55% profess Christianity.

Around 59% of 16- to 24-year-olds and 60% of under-16s said they were Christian.

Support for other religions breaks down as 4.4% Muslim, 1.3 %, 0.7% Sikh, 0.4% Buddhist, 0.4% Jewish and 1.1% 'other' religions.

Simon Calvert, of the Christian Institute think tank, said: "These figures must come as a shock to the BBC and the political class. It is about time that this reality, that people want to be identified as Christian, was reflected not only in the output of our major broadcasters but also in the policies of the government.

"Ministers are still barrelling along with enforcing civil partnerships in churches and redefining marriage. We can only hope that the reality will catch up with them and give them pause for thought."

Thrillax this Christmas

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 11:14:46 +0100

There are the okay gifts, the bad and the downright embarrassing gifts that we’ve all had given to us – but this year that is going to change as Rockingham Circuit has created the perfect package which can be enjoyed all year round!

So this Christmas leave the sweaters at the store and the customized mugs on the market stall as the Northamptonshire motor racing circuit has put together the complete solution package which combines all the adrenaline of the racetrack with the luxury surroundings of a four-star hotel.

Rockingham’s Thrillax is ideal for those who like to share their experience with others whether it is enjoying hospitality at the races, a relaxing evening in the glorious surroundings of Rushton Hall or having someone special providing moral support from the pit lane as you take part in two very different track activities.

The package does not exist anywhere else and is a unique and exclusive product to Rockingham. Thrillax combines a number of adrenalin experiences with a stay at a luxury hotel, which can be split into either four or three separate visits.

The Thrillax package is not designed purely for the ‘piston-head’ who wants to get ahead on the track but will also appeal to those who like the finer things in life. So break from tradition and send your other half to the spa while you set a lap record on track in their car!

Track Day Product

You don’t have to have a supercar to enjoy a Rockingham Track Day. Whether you have got a Reliant Robin or a Rolls Royce, you will be surprised by the variety of ordinary cars joining you on the same track used by some of the UK’s top motor racing drivers. It is not about what you drive, but the experience of mastering every corner and powering down the straights as you try to perfect your racing line.

Supercar Driving Experience

In partnership with The Racing School at Rockingham, the Supercar Driving Experience allows you to get behind the wheel of the red hot Ferrari, and test both your own and the car’s limit. The renowned Italian supercar has been adored by generations of families and will provide a totally different driving experience and require a new set of skills of those on the Track Day.

VIP Hospitality

The package includes two passes to one of the Rockingham VIP Hospitality suites where you will enjoy fine cuisine and all day refreshments while watching one of the Rockingham 2012 race events of your choice! This could include the British Touring Car Championships or one of the many other top British race meetings which Rockingham hosts. Get the chance to see how the professional racing drivers cut corners and stick to the Apex and compare it to your own experience on track.

Rushton Hall

Round your weekend off with a Sunday overnight stay with breakfast at the four-star Rushton Hall Hotel and Spa which is situated in the beautiful village of Rushton – just a short drive from Rockingham. To make the most of your stay why not take advantage of a 15 per cent discount offer and enjoy one of the luxury treatments at the hotel’s Stableyard Spa. The ability to relax while staying in the heart of the English countryside gives you the opportunity to unwind after an exhilarating day on the track.

The four-part experience has a retail value of over £560 and is on sale at the special introductory price of £399, a saving of nearly 30 per cent. Thrillax can be purchased online at www.rockingham.co.uk/thrillax.

Execution looms for Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 10:13:29 +0100

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is calling for urgent action on behalf of Iranian Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani, who faces execution anytime from October 29 onwards for refusing to renounce his Christian faith.

Pastor Nadarkhani is currently on trial in Rasht. He has appeared in court three times this week and has refused to renounce his faith on each occasion when asked to do so by the court.

Iran’s constitution sanctions Christianity as a legitimate minority faith and asserts that Christians should be freely permitted to carry out their religious traditions. Article 23 asserts that no one may be “reprimanded simply because of having a certain belief”.

The country is also violating its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Article 18 includes a provision for the right to “have or to adopt” a religion, which has been interpreted authoritatively by the UN Human Rights Committee as including the right to change one’s religion.

CSW is asking people to appeal against this unjust act by emailing the Iranian embassy. Its website provides guidelines as to the suggested content of the email, which will be sent indirectly from the individual’s personal email account.

Individuals can also join CSW’s Facebook campaign, and raise awareness through Twitter using #Nadarkhani and bitly url http://bit.ly/mQ0FDv.

Sorted blog readers advocate forgiveness

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:37:34 +0100

According to a survey carried out on the Sorted blog, the majority of us refuse to get riled by offensive behaviour.

Asked how people respond when someone offends them, 60% said they forgive the person and 30% said they would talk it through with the offending party.

Just 10% said they would take a huff if someone caused offence, and nobody admitted to taking revenge.

The related blog entry explored a number of issues that can grind our gears and concluded that positive action is more powerful than complaining or getting even. It points out that the Bible says vengeance should be left to God (Deuteronomy 32:35; Romans 12:19) and that “it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense" (Proverbs 19:11).

A shining example of this is Gee Walker, the mother of murdered teenager Anthony Walker. She shocked the nation in 2005 when she forgave her son’s murderers, and the action has since given her the opportunity to share her faith with people across the world and to champion the fight against racism.

"I can't hate,” she said shortly after the tragedy. “We're a forgiving family and it extended to outside, so it wasn't hard to forgive because we don't just preach it, we practise it.

"I brought up my children in this church to love. I teach them to love, to respect themselves, and respect others.

"What does bitterness do? It eats you up inside, it's like a cancer. We don't want to serve a life sentence with those people."

Euan Murray to miss Sunday World Cup matches

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:46:18 +0100

Euan Murray will not appear in Scotland's Rugby World Cup game against Argentina on September 25. In fact, he will not play a part in any Sunday matches and will be replaced for these fixtures by Geoff Cross.

Known for his adherence to the fourth commandment to keep the Sabbath holy, Murray questions the need for games to be played on Sundays at all. Although he has taken part in Sunday matches in the past, the Scotland and Newcastle Falcons prop says his conscience no longer allows him to do so.

"I don't see why there have to be games on Sundays," said Murray. "I hope things will change in future."

Explaining why the issue is so important to him, he says: "It's basically all or nothing, following Jesus. I don't believe in pick 'n' mix Christianity. I believe the Bible is the word of God, so who am I to ignore something from it?

"I might as well tear out that page then keep tearing out pages as and when it suits me. If I started out like that there would soon be nothing left.

"I want to live my life believing and doing the things [God] wants and the Sabbath day is a full day.

"It's not a case of a couple of hours in church then playing rugby or going down the pub, it's the full day."

Murray has already shown that he is prepared to make big sacrifices for his faith. He was left out of the 1995 team because he would have missed both the last-eight and last-four matches as a result of his Sunday rule.

Australian school bans Lord’s Prayer

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:33:21 +0100

A government school in Western Australia has banned students from reciting the Lord’s Prayer during school assemblies.

Edgewater Primary School introduced the ban following complaints from parents. It cited the Western Australia Education Act, which states that schools must not promote a specific religious practice, denomination or sect over another, as justification its decision.

The school sent parents a survey asking for their views after the complaints were received, but just 36% of parents responded.

"We acknowledge that, of the parents who did respond to the survey, many wanted to retain the Lord’s Prayer and it is right that we continue to recite it at culturally appropriate times such as Christmas and Easter, as part of our education programme,” the school’s principal, Julie Tombs, wrote in a letter to parents.

"However, at this school, we have students from a range of backgrounds and it is important to consider all views and not promote one set of religious beliefs and practices over another."

Meanwhile, a federal appeals court in California has rejected the claim of a Christian high school mathematics teacher who said his First Amendment rights were breached when he was ordered by the principal to remove classroom banners that mentioned God.

And the Freedom from Religion Foundation has written to the superintendent of DeSoto public schools in Mississippi demanding that the school district stop banning The Gideons International from distributing Bibles in public schools.

Christian healing fair to take place in Norwich

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:57:24 +0100

A second Destiny Healing Fair is to take place in Norwich in September.

Hosted by the pastors of Poringland’s Wellspring Family Church, Rod and Michelle Smith, the event aims to provide an alternative to the many New Age and psychic fairs taking place up and down the country.

The first edition of the fair took place in February and, following its success, its organisers feel the upcoming event will be a blessing to churches in the area and to the wider community.

The fair will offer massage sessions, art and photography activities, the opportunity to take part in musical workshops, and prayer sessions for those who need healing. Stalls selling refreshments, craft items, jewellery and other gift items will also be on sale at the exhibition, which is free to enter.

"There are some talented people who feel redundant, unrecognised or are unable to use the skills God has given them and who have a heart to reach the lost,” Mrs Smith told Network Norwich and Norfolk.

“The healing fair provides a platform for the many creative gifts within churches to be used in the marketplace as evangelistic opportunities.

"For lots of people, their only experience of church is a wedding, christening or funeral service and they can be few and far between.

“We want to show them that God is interested in them personally and he thinks they are amazing people and that he has a plan for their lives."

The fair will take place on September 24 from 10.00 until 16.00 at The Hewett School on Cecil Road.

Wellspring Family Church Dereham is part of the Newfrontiers family of churches and a member of the Evangelical Alliance.

Palm Cross Christian suspended from work

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 17:18:05 +0100

British Christian electrician Colin Atkinson, who won the right to keep displaying a palm cross in his work van in April, has now been suspended from work after being continually harassed since his return.

Colin’s case received widespread publicity after he was asked to remove a palm cross from the dashboard of his Wakefield and District Housing Association (WDH) van in the North of England. Although he had displayed the cross for 15 years, he was threatened with being fired for not removing it following an anonymous complaint.

According to Christian Concern after a public outcry following a campaign by Christian Concern, his employers at WDH agreed that he could return to work and display the cross. Since then, however, Colin has suffered continual problems. Despite the agreement with WDH, he has not been allowed to carry out his job properly. Colin’s van was taken from him and he was told to travel in by bus, and he was then moved to a different office 16 miles away. Colin lodged a grievance but has now been asked to stay at home pending further investigations.

Colin said: “WDH have broken faith with me and not restored me to my job as they promised. I was told to travel in by bus and I suffered harassment at work. This is all because I wanted to keep a small palm cross in my van. I have not done anything wrong and I just want to return to my normal workplace.”

Andrea Minichiello Williams, CEO of the Christian Legal Centre, said:

"After a public outcry over his case, Colin Atkinson was allowed to return to work and to continue to display a palm cross in his van.

“However, since the media attention died away, he suffered continued harassment, and WDH has not honoured its agreement with him to allow him to return to his old job. It seems that WDH hoped that Colin could be bought off and go quietly.

“At the Christian Legal Centre we will be doing all we can to ensure that WDH is held to account and that Colin is free to express his Christian faith in the workplace."

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

Author comes to UK to tackle the challenge of why men hate going to church

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 13:54:12 +0100

THE INTERNATIONALLY renowned author Dave Murrow (Why Men Hate Going to Church) will be flying to the UK to speak to Christian blokes about Biblical discipleship in the 21st Century.

CVM will host the event which is set to attract anyone interested in tackling the exodus of men from the UK Church. Dave Murrow will be unpacking his popular new book, ‘The Map’ to equip the Church with confidence in discipleship.

Carl Beech, CVM General Director, said: "Dave’s teaching in ‘The Map’ will show you the way to a transformed walk with Jesus and men’s ministry in your church. We think it’s the ideal companion to The Code! Mark out the date, gather a group of guys and join Dave and the CVM team for a high quality day of teaching with the usual fun, banter and food!”

CVM has urged men from all over the UK to attend the event from 10am - 4pm at the Ridgeway Centre, Featherstone Road, Milton Keynes. (For Sat Nav users, the post code is MK12 5TH.)

Cost: £16.50 (inc. lunch)

To reserve a place visit http://www.cvmen.org.uk or call the CVM Office on 01246 271713.

The News of the World Scandal

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 09:14:28 +0100

It is too early to make a final judgement on what is currently known as the ‘News of the World Phone Hacking Scandal’, where journalists pursuing stories appear to have systematically hacked into mobile phones, stolen personal information and allegedly made payments to corrupt police officers. It is too early because we do not know who authorised these actions and whether such illegalities occurred elsewhere within Rupert Murdoch's vast News Corporation media empire, which includes The Times, the Sun, The Sunday Times and Sky television.

Yet if we cannot yet make a final judgement, we know enough to be angry. Some of our society’s most fundamental standards have been trampled on and there has been a complete disregard for those most elementary British values, the rights to decency and privacy.

This scandal appears to be a further dramatic sign of the erosion of our Christian principles in British society. The Ten Commandments have for generations provided the foundations underlying our society, forming the rulebook for British national life. Even if you were
unclear about what exactly it meant to keep the Sabbath, you knew that you weren't supposed to lie. Yet in this post-Christian age there are no longer any such moral foundations; in pursuit of profits and a good story anything goes.

The actions uncovered are wrong on many counts. In terms of the Ten Commandments, the eighth – ‘You shall not steal’ – has clearly been broken: names, phone numbers, identities and perhaps reputations have been stolen. In a broad sense, the ninth – ‘You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour’ – has also been broken. Although often felt to be simply about lying, at its deepest level it forbids us hurting another individual through saying or writing something false.

Yet there is something deeper still. I think what people have found particularly shocking has been the arrogance with which journalists, over many years, appear to have ignored the most basic moral values. They seem to have felt they could do exactly what they
wanted. In viewing themselves as godlike, above everyone else, they have adopted an attitude that borders on the blasphemous.

But is there anything more in this sorry affair than a statement of our moral bankruptcy? I think there are three other issues.

Firstly, there is a sense in which we as a society must share some of the guilt. A society gets the press that it deserves: papers such as the News of the World printed what they did because that's what the public wanted to read. In judging the press, we judge ourselves.

Secondly, while something must be done to control these abuses of the press, we need to be very careful. Human nature is such that in fleeing from one error we all too frequently fall into another. In this case, there is clearly a temptation for the government to impose new rules
and regulations on the media, which will prohibit even the gentlest investigation into an individual's private life. Although this may be attractive, it is also problematic. We do need a press that has the freedom to investigate and expose wrongdoing. Constraints on press investigations could permit all sorts of evil to flourish. (It is worth remembering that it was actually an investigation by the press itself – the Guardian – that brought these present abuses to light.) Whatever new legislation and penalties are proposed they should not become a smokescreen behind which the guilty can hide. There are people who would very much like a toothless press.

Thirdly, let me suggest that the church must take a little bit of the blame. At its best, the press performs a role not unlike that of the prophet in the Old Testament, denouncing what is evil in society. Is it possible that we have become so self-absorbed, so focused on our
own pleasures, so anxious to be well thought of by everybody, that we have forgotten our God-appointed task of speaking harsh truths to our generation? Is it possible that it is in part the silence of the church that has allowed the tabloids to speak? And, at the risk of making a glib pun, isn't it possible that if prophets are silent, profits will speak?

www.philotrust.com

Sorted The UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

HOPE seeks greater involvement of black churches in mission

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:49:37 +0100

The HOPE movement has appointed a pastor from the Redeemed Christian Church of God to encourage black-majority churches to play a greater role in mission across the UK.

The Rev Yemi Adedeji is pastoral aide to the senior pastor at Jesus House in London, one of the largest black-majority churches in Britain.

He has been appointed as an Associate Director of HOPE and will be consulting for the mission movement, as well as building up networks and bringing different church networks and denominations together for the purpose of united mission.

It is hoped that his appointment will strengthen partnerships with black-majority churches and networks.

Rev Adedeji said: “I get excited about the HOPE vision – particularly unity for the purpose of mission.

"The black-majority churches do things a little differently but I have a passion for allowing churches of every tradition, culture and style to work together in their communities.

“There are huge opportunities for the diverse church throughout the UK to make an impact in our nation.”

HOPE was launched last July during an all-night prayer gathering hosted by the RCCG in London. It sprang out of HOPE 08, a yearlong movement which saw churches in 1,500 areas work together to be the good news in their local communities.

Senior pastor of Jesus House, Pastor Agu Irukwu, said he was “delighted” that Rev Adedeji would be working to deepen partnerships across the UK church.

“We dream of a time when Baptists, evangelicals, Methodists, Pentecostals, charismatics, Catholics, Free Church, Anglicans and so many more will all come together, no matter what background they are from,” he said.

“They will come together and be the church – a church without walls that is making an impact.”

Rev Adedeji is also an ordained Anglican minister and has previously worked for Church Mission Society.

He became the first African trustee/director at the Anglican mission agency in its 210-year history and served as Outreach and New Relationship Adviser to over 2,000 Anglican churches in the UK as well as to mission outlets around the
world.

Roy Crowne, Executive Director of HOPE said: “We are thrilled to have Yemi as part of our team to help us develop a larger strategy to encompass more denominations and cultures to do more together, in words and actions and answer the call to
relevant mission.

“We need to celebrate diversity and understand that we have strengths when we work together for the sake of those outside of the kingdom.”

Bishop Wayne Malcolm, senior pastor of Christian Life City Church and a member of the HOPE leadership team, said that the desire to collaborate across denominational, ethnic and cultural lines for the purpose of evangelising Britain was "unprecedented and exciting".

He said: “This appointment is a significant step towards realising the dream of a united church working together to reach our divided country.”

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

Christian Vision for Men Gathering see 40 Men Respond to Message of Jesus

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:29:31 +0100

CVM staff were honoured to be a part of what was the first of many annual national gatherings. More than 500 men from as far away as Mexico came to the event which saw 40 men make serious decisions regarding the message of Jesus, and around 20 of them were taking their first steps of faith. E-mails of great testimonies have been flooding into the CVM office which is already planning for next year’s event.

The Gathering 2012 will be held at the same venue, from June 29 to July 1. Bookings will be taken in the near future.

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

Millions Going Hungry in East Africa

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:55:16 +0100

Tearfund is asking people to pray for the situation in East Africa, where more than 10 million people are facing severe hunger as some areas experience the worst drought in 60 years, destroying crops and livestock.

Richard Lister, Tearfund’s Head of Region for East Africa, said, “There has been widespread loss of crops and livestock and the impact of the drought has been worsened by high food prices and, in some areas, conflict. There is a high risk of this crisis becoming critical if rains remain erratic.”

Work by Tearfund partners to prepare communities to better withstand drought has been going on for many years, which has helped lessen the impact for many. However, deteriorating climatic conditions this year are taking their toll.

Robert Schofield, Tearfund’s Disaster Management Director, said: “We musn’t forget this is sub-Saharan Africa, which is a challenging environment and this is going to keep happening for some people.

“Climate change means this is going to occur more frequently and will be worse each time, which is why two things are crucial: urgent international action much be taken to address climate change; and investment in long-term disaster risk reduction initiatives, so poor
communities are prepared when they are faced with adverse weather conditions.”

To add to the pressure on struggling families, staple food prices have rocketed. Tearfund has been lobbying the G20 leaders recently to tackle high global food prices by protecting the most vulnerable people and building long-term resilience to disasters.

www.tearfund.org

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

Prayer for the Olympics

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:39:37 +0100

The Church of England has released a prayer for those preparing for the 2012 Games.

It asks God to be with the athletes, their supporters and families, and the thousands of churches preparing events in their communities in the run-up to and during the Olympics.

With just 400 days to go until the Games begin, the prayer has been read out on a new podcast by British 400m Olympic gold medallist Christine Ohuruogu MBE.

The Rev Duncan Green, the Church of England's Executive Olympics Coordinator, said: "More than Gold are resourcing and equipping the Church to respond to the tremendous mission and outreach opportunities afforded by the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"It has been wonderful to see so many attend the More Than Gold training conferences and leave excited and enthused by what they have heard. This prayer will encourage churches and all those preparing for the 2012 Games."

The Church of England is a member of the More than Gold ecumenical initiative coordinating the Olympic-related outreach of churches and ministries across the UK.

Many of the 16,000 Church of England churches are planning events to coincide with the Games.

They include St Barnabas at Bexhill-on-Sea, which is putting up a big screen for the opening ceremony.

The Diocese of Oxford has appointed an Olympics chaplain, the Rev Janet Binns, and set up a dedicated Olympics website (www.racebeforeus.org.uk).

It is encouraging churches to connect with people through community events, hospitality and service, particularly at the rowing Olympics venue at Eton Dorney.

In Weymouth and Portland, churches will be launching their Olympics outreach with a themed festival in Portland in August.

During the Games, they will be offering foot massages and drinks in Bedouin tents along the beach. There will also be big stage events, bands, and clubs for children.

The Church of England's Olympics prayer has been composed by the Rev Christopher Woods, the Church of England's National Worship Development Officer.

It is available in full below.

A prayer in preparation for the 2012 Games
Eternal God,
Giver of joy and source of all strength,
we pray for those
who prepare for the London Olympic and Paralympic games.
For the competitors training for the Games and their loved ones,
For the many thousands who will support them,
And for the Churches and others who are organising special events and who will welcome many people from many nations.
In a world where many are rejected and abused,
we pray for a spirit
of tolerance and acceptance, of humility and respect
and for the health and safety of all.
May we at the last be led towards the love of Christ who is more than gold, today and forever. Amen

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

Kicking Away the Blues

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 09:20:22 +0100

A "chance" encounter on a beach in Bermuda changed the life of Arvel Lowe, former fitness coach for England's Birmingham City Football Club, also known as "The Blues."

Now his personal blues are gone in his life and he was, for several years, reaching his goal by serving Jesus Christ in the competitive world of professional sport. Arvel Lowe is a church member in Solihull, a suburb of Birmingham, England's second city, and regularly speaks
about his story at churches and groups around the UK.

In an interview, Lowe, 53, explained how he found Christ at a low point in his life. "At the end of the football (soccer) season in May, 1997, I ended a relationship with my girlfriend of three years," said the man who for several years assisted former England soccer
superstar, Trevor Francis, at St. Andrew's, the home of Birmingham F.C., a team that was relegated this season to the Championship from the country's top league, the Premiership.

"To try to forget my sadness, I decided to go on holiday to Florida. Then early one morning, I heard a voice inside me, which said, 'Why are you going to Florida when you have a sister in Bermuda whom you have not seen for seven years?'"

After this surprising experience, Lowe phoned his sister Amanda the next day and asked if he could visit her. She was delighted.

"I flew from London to Bermuda and that night my sister and I caught up with all of our news from the previous seven years," he said. "After a while, my sister told me she had become a born-again Christian, and asked me if I would like to go to church with her on
that coming Sunday. I agreed."

Wishing to clear his head, Arvel decided to go for a long walk on the beach at Horseshoe Bay. "I was feeling pretty low and saying to myself, 'There has got to be more to life than this,'" he said.

"It was about midday and, as I was walking down the path of Horseshoe Bay, I noticed it was deserted. Suddenly, a young man appeared out of the bushes and started walking towards me. As we were near each other, I said, 'Good morning' and he replied, 'Good morning to you.'"

Arvel said he was startled when the young man, whose name was Cyril, added, "You're from England and you are involved in football." He said he wondered how he could have known that so far from home. So, he asked him, "What do you do?" and Cyril replied,
"I'm a born again Christian studying to be a pastor."

Arvel continued, "He then said to me, 'Are you born again?' and I said, 'No. I don't know what you mean.' He said, 'Have you given your life to Jesus Christ?' I said that I hadn't and so he said, 'Let me tell you, brother, that I have given my life to Jesus. He has changed me
completely and He can do the same for you.'

"We shook hands. As I turned to go, he put his hand on my shoulder and said, 'Jesus can make you a different person if you will only let him.' I then began to walk away and turned around and he had disappeared.

"Later that evening I shared what had happened with my sister and she said, 'You have got to come to church with me tomorrow!'"

Lowe remembers waking up that Sunday morning feeling "really emotional" and not knowing why. "As I got to the church early that morning - May 25, 1997 - I started to cry and again didn't know why," he said. "I had not cried for 20 years. I then saw people
with their hands raised. They were praising and worshipping God. I had never seen this before and couldn't stop looking at them."

Lowe said that soon the pastor got up to preach and his sermon was based on Ezekiel 22 verse 30. "It was on how God was looking for a man to stand in the gap," he recalled. "He then proceeded to talk about my life and I thought, 'How does this guy know so much
about me?'

His life consisted of fame, money, night clubs and women

"At that time, my life consisted of fame, money, night clubs and women - in fact, fast living - and, as he talked, my heart was pounding as if I'd just finished a race," he said.

He recalled the pastor saying, "This is what God is looking for in a man - love, honesty, righteousness, taking responsibility, and forgiveness."

Lowe continued, "When he had finished preaching, the pastor asked the congregation to stand and he said, 'This message is for someone here and is from God. You know who you are. Come forward and give your life to the Lord.'"

Lowe said that his heart was saying, "Yes" but his mind was saying "No," as a battle was going on in his mind.

"Then, at last, I went forward and gave my life to Jesus," he said. "The pastor prayed the prayer of repentance with me and as soon I had finished, I felt a tremendous release and felt clean and an overwhelming joy."

Later that day, Lowe discovered that the pastor had already prepared a sermon, but later felt God was prompting him to change to Ezekiel 22.

Lowe added, "Cyril, the guy I met at the beach, became good friends we me and I kept in touch with him. I found out that he knew my sister. We met up again in London March 2000 and I asked him, 'Where
did you come from when you appeared on the beach that day?' I was amazed with his answer."

Arvel said that Cyril told him that on that day in May 97, he had started a new job patrolling the beach.

"That morning, when he awoke, he said that God told him, 'Whoever speaks to you today, you are to tell them about Me.' He was supposed to be patrolling the beach with five other men and he had somehow lost them. He prayed to God to put him on the right path. This God did by bringing him onto the path I was on, right in front of me."

Arvel Lowe is now a member at an evangelical church in Solihull, in fact, if you ever attend this particular church, you will probably meet Arvel at the front door, as he is a hospitality steward there.

You can also watch a video of Arvel at http://vimeo.com/4860659

Andy Hawthorne recognised with OBE in Queen’s Birthday Honours

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:04:53 +0100

The UK based charity The Message Trust announced that their founder and CEO Andy Hawthorne has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

The honour recognises Andy’s outstanding achievements and service to young people in Greater Manchester for almost twenty years.

Since leaving his clothing business to work full time in schools in 1992, Andy has built a formidable reputation as a champion for young people and a pioneer of initiatives that help the hardest-to-reach young people in schools, prisons and disadvantaged local communities.

Through its schools bands and theatre company, 17 long-term urban youth partnerships and work with young offenders, The Message Trust now reaches over 100,000 young people a year in Greater Manchester and beyond.

Thousands of young people attribute the radical changes in their lives to the work of The Message. Many former troublemakers have become staff members and key volunteers of the charity.

The Message Trust is held in high regard by other youth agencies nationwide and has received commendations from Prime Minister David Cameron and Chief Constable, Greater Manchester Police Peter Fahy as well as business leaders such as Michael Oglesby (Bruntwood) and Brian Souter (Stagecoach).

This Friday, the charity hosts its annual Urban Hero Awards, recognising six extraordinary young people who have been helped by the charity over the last year.

Among the award winners this year are former local tearaways now working hard on behalf of their community, and a youth worker-turned-entrepreneur who has set up four new medical practices on needy local estates.

Christian Men’s Magazine has your Father’s Day gift Sorted

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:03:33 +0100

Due to an overwhelming demand Sorted, the UK's only Christian men's magazine has almost completely sold out, as thousands of copies have been ordered for Father's day.

Sorted editor Steve Legg said: "Groups and churches up and down the UK have been ordering copies for their dad's for 19th June. However we are delighted to report we have some copies available and we’re offering a great offer of bumper packs of 40 for just £50. Don't miss this amazing offer only available until this Thursday and be a blessing to the guys at your church.

Steve Legg, who's been on the road for nearly 24 years as a gospel escape artist and illusionist, launched Sorted nearly three years ago as a positive, wholesome alternative to men's magazines like Nuts and Loaded. He says the immediate reaction was extremely positive even from one of the UK's top national newspapers: "The Daily Telegraph loved it and called it 'the lad's mag with morals,' and that's stuck. It's just been so exciting how that's grown."

Sorted reaches the Armed Forces

Steve says since they launched the magazine, the demand particularly from men in the armed forces has been overwhelming: "I so believe in sowing and reaping and we give so many copies away, including one thousand to the men in the armed forces. We're told the pass on rate is every one magazine is read by 50 men. So you think our little magazine that is good and wholesome and talks about the Lord with totally non-religious Christianity is maybe reading 50,000 sailors and soldiers in every submarine and every warship.

"For the chaplain on the HMS Ark Royal, we used to send 15 copies on there but it wasn't enough and he requested another 30 copies. You know these unbelieving men fighting for queen and country, wondering and thinking about issues of life and death are asking for copies of a Christian magazine. What an honour and a privilege. We recently had a request for a thousand copies from the Royal Air Force. We've got one hundred prisons asking for at least ten copies each."

Sponsor a soldier or sailor

"We just can't afford to keep giving the Sorted magazine away," explained Steve.

He added: "Everywhere we go we say 'how about partnering with us, how about sponsoring a soldier or sailor?' Just 1.75 GBP a month means we can send six magazines a year out to Afghanistan, out to Iraq, into a prison. We can all make a difference.

"I had an email from a Lance Corporal who just turned up in Afghanistan. He picked up a copy of the magazine and it blew him away and he said 'I want one of these on a regular basis, how can I subscribe?' Isn't that fantastic?"

To order go to: www.sorted-magazine.com

Last minute Father's Day gifts

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 11:17:06 +0100

Stuck for ideas for Father's Day? It's just over a week away, so how about visiting the Sorted shop for a unique gift? From hilarious wristbands and t-shirts through to a year's subscription of the world's most wholesome men's magazine. It's a gift that'll last all year.

Order before Wednesday 15th June to receive your order, but don't leave it too late. Stocks are going fast.

http://www.sorted-magazine.com/product/?pid=62543

Britain's Got Talent star says bullying made his faith stronger

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 20:22:27 +0100

Britain’s Got Talent star Paul Gbegbaje has been open about his faith in God and the role that has played in his success.

A report in the Sun newspaper implied that being bullied for his faith at school made him weak, but the self-taught pianist told Premier Christian Radio that it actually
made him strong.

“I was strong for what I believed, and I stood up for it boldly," he said.

"People would make remarks but I overcame it, I opposed them. They would say stuff but I didn’t let it get to me or weaken me.

"It just made me stronger, and I believe that made me a bigger witness, and a stronger witness.”

Paul prays before his performances and revealed that he feels it’s by God’s hand that he got through to the finals last Saturday.

“I was so honoured to be chosen and given that lifeline.”

Despite his undeniable talent today, just a few years ago Paul was uninterested in the piano.

"He never got near it - he was not interested one bit!" says his dad, Clevy, a church minister who used to lug the church keyboard back to the family home
every Sunday for Paul to practise on."

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

Transformed UK Conference Centre Celebrates ‘Century to be proud of’

Sun, 29 May 2011 21:38:28 +0100

TERRY WAITE last week (Fri 27 May) joined some 200 people to celebrate the centenary of The Hayes Christian conference centre in Swanwick, Derbyshire, England.

'I've been coming to this wonderful place for 50 years,' said Waite, former special envoy to the Archbishop of Canterbury. 'There is a very special, homely atmosphere here - yet it can easily cater for groups as large as 400. The staff are all local, so you get to know them well. Fabulous new additions - ensuite bedrooms and conference facilities - have taken the venue to a new level without losing that personal touch. I am delighted to say thank you to all who make us so welcome, every time.'

Like most of the 40,000 people who stay at the Hayes each year, Waite had no idea it had been requisitioned as a Prisoner of War camp during World War II. Five PoWs famously tunnelled out of the place in December 1940. All were re-captured but the legendary Franz von Werra escaped again - from Canada - and made it back to Germany, the only PoW to do so throughout WWII. Intriguingly, most of the tunnel is still intact.

'Our PoWs may have been unwilling "guests" but visit any community in the UK and you’ll find people who have enjoyed a time of refreshment here,' said general manager Brian Cupples. 'We have constantly developed to meet the changing needs of our visitors – a key to our success.'

According to recent research, one million people in the UK get away on a residential religious-orientated holiday, conference or course each year. With more than 30 meeting rooms, many equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment and wireless internet, the centre has kept up with the demands of today’s guests. It is also available for day and residential conferences for local businesses, charities and public sector organisations of all kinds, catering for groups large and small.

Dozens and dozens of thankful visitors have written to the centre in recent weeks, including the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, who said: ‘The Hayes has been a valuable resource for quiet reflection and recharging of batteries. I hope it will continue to play its important role in Christian life.’

'Swanwick has been a place of regular pilgrimage for me since the 1970s,' said the Bishop of Oxford, Rt Rev John Pritchard. 'I’ve been a learner, a speaker, a participant, an observer and an exhausted recoverer! Always I have found stimulation, friendship and hope – and the facilities have been transformed. It’s a century to be proud of.'

'Through all the modernisation one thing has remained constant - The Hayes is a place where people meet God and have their lives enriched,' said Rt Rev Paul Butler, Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham.

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men

Steve Legg talks Sorted on Premier Christian Radio

Tue, 24 May 2011 21:26:37 +0100

Sorted's publisher, Steve Legg, speaks to Nick Battle on Premier Christian Radio.

Click here to listen now.

UK Christian Doctor Under Fire for Sharing His Faith with a Patient

Mon, 23 May 2011 15:49:48 +0100

A CHRISTIAN doctor with 28 years experience has been reported to the General Medical Council (GMC), and fears he could lose his job after he discussed his faith in Jesus with a patient last year.

Dr Richard Scott, who works at Bethesda Medical Centre in Margate, Kent – a practice well-known for having Christian partners - has been threatened with an Official Warning by the GMC and is currently under investigation.

According to the Christian Legal Centre in 2010, Dr Scott saw a patient on the practice list at the request of the patient’s mother. At the end of the consultation, the patient and doctor discussed religion, each being of different faiths. The patient has continued to seek treatment from the practice, but his mother filed an official complaint, claiming that the GP had not offered medical advice during a consultation, but instead, talked about Jesus!

The Christian Legal Centre said the GMC has written to Dr Scott offering a ‘compromise’ decision to the disciplinary complaint of placing an Official Warning on his file. However, the General Practitioner is calling on his professional body to strike-out the complaint on the basis that the complaint was from a mother who was not medically qualified to comment on what treatment, if any, a medical practitioner should prescribe and, the GMC’s own guidelines state that it is acceptable to present faith to a patient as long as it is done gently and sensitively.

Dr Scott, who has an unblemished record as a medic, says it is totally unacceptable for his professional reputation and official file to contain a rebuke for acting both professionally, and within the guidelines. He claims the complaint has been made knowing that professional bodies are nervous about claims of a religious nature, and therefore it is a way of getting back at the GP.

Dr Scott said: “I only discussed my faith at the end of a lengthy medical consultation after exploring the various interventions that the patient had previously tried, and after promising to follow up the patient’s request appointment with other medical professionals.

“I only discussed mutual faith after obtaining the patient’s permission. In our conversation, I said that personally, I had found having faith in Jesus helped me and could help the patient. At no time did the patient indicate that they were offended, or that they wanted to stop the discussion. If that had been the case, I would have immediately ended the conversation.

“This complaint was brought to the GMC not by the patient, who has continued to be a patient at this practice, but by the patient’s mother.”

In an article in the Telegraph Niall Dickson, chief executive of the GMC, said doctors should not normally discuss their personal beliefs with patients “unless those beliefs are directly relevant to the patient's care”.

“They also must not impose their beliefs on patients, or cause distress by the inappropriate or insensitive expression of religious, political or other beliefs or views,” he said.

But the Christian Legal Centre reports the medical practice at which Dr Scott works is well known in the community for having Christian partners and is named after a Biblical name. Dr Scott says he has talked about his faith with many patients over the years, and many of them have been encouraged. Dr Scott, who for seven years has been a worshipper at St Paul’s Church, Cliftonville (CofE), is so determined to clear his professional name that he has instructed the Christian Legal Centre to advise him in his case. They, in turn, are using the
leading human rights lawyer, Paul Diamond as lead counsel.

Andrea Minichiello Williams, CEO of the Christian Legal Centre, said: “It is a shame that Dr Scott has been reported to the GMC because of his Christian views. Dr Scott is an experienced GP who has helped thousands of patients over the years.

“The complaint, on religious grounds, appears to be a smokescreen to express frustration and to disagree publicly with the professional treatment offered. However, the GMC must not bow to political or emotional pressure in this case and should back the GP 100 per-cent, as he acted within their own guidelines, and his unblemished record should not be tarnished – even by a letter on his file.”

"Many patients are helped when a Doctor, in the natural course of a discussion, talks about their spiritual needs. This is all Dr Scott was doing and he should not be punished for this or prevented from doing so in the future.”

According to the Telegraph Dr Peter Saunders, chief executive of the Christian Medical Fellowship, which has 4,000 members including about 2,000 GPs, criticised the GMC. He said the “clear implication” of the GMC guidelines was
that a doctor should be allowed to express his personal beliefs in a way that is “appropriate and sensitive”.

“It does seem to me that the GMC have overreacted by censuring him,” he said.

“All good doctors try to treat their patients as whole persons, not just biochemical machines. That does sometimes include spiritual matters, dealing with questions of meaning and purpose.”

Sorted the UK's Number One Christian Magazine for Men