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Lenny Kravitz teams up with Unicef

Tue, 21 May 2013 14:18:34 +0100

Award-winning singer-songwriter, record producer and actor Lenny Kravitz is working with Unicef to put an end to preventable child deaths. According to the children’s charity, as many as 1.5 million children die every year from vaccine-preventable diseases.

"It’s every parent’s worst nightmare – an extremely ill child," says Kravitz. "Unicef’s goal is to make sure that 100% of children are immunised against preventable diseases. Failing to reach every last child is unacceptable; especially when the cost of a vaccine is so little."

Vaccines supplied by the charity are responsible for eradicating smallpox and for preventing an estimated two to three million deaths each year from diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough measles and polio.

Fifty years ago, polio was one of the most feared diseases in the world. Anyone not immunised against the disease can contract polio, but children under five years of age are especially vulnerable. Polio is now endemic in only three countries: Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria; and it could be wiped out completely.

Jos Vandelaer, chief of immunisation at Unicef, adds: "As the largest procurer of vaccines, Unicef helps immunise more than one third of the world’s children.

"Unicef is well positioned to deliver vaccinations to every last child, which is very important if we are ever to reach a day where 100% of children are fully immunised."

Faith Through a Lens prizes revealed

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:45:37 +0100

Faith Through a Lens, an annual amateur photography competition that aims to showcase the diverse views of faith in the UK and its positive effects in the community, launched on May 21. The competition, now in its fourth year, is the creation of national church insurer Congregational & General.

One winner, along with two highly commended entries, will be announced at an exclusive awards ceremony held in central London on November 20. Ten shortlisted finalists will be invited to the event and each will receive a prize bag of photography goods worth £250. The three winning entrants will nominate a charity, faith or community group to receive £1,000 worth of audiovisual or photography equipment of their choice.

The winner will be picked by the Faith Through a Lens judging panel, led by photo-journalist Don McCullin. With a career spanning more than 50 years, Don McCullin is recognised for his depiction of war, urban strife and the impoverished. While taking photographs of the Vietnam War in 1970, his life was famously saved by a Nikon F camera after he was shot at by the Khmer Rouge crossing a paddy field in Cambodia. The camera has an imprinted AK47 bullet mark and is still in Don McCullin’s possession today.

This year, Faith Through a Lens joins forces with online news website MSN UK to help capture the essence of faith from a wider audience perspective. The ongoing relationship with Inter Faith Network and Churches Together in England continues as Paresh Solanki and Rev Dr David Cornick retain their places on the judging panel with MSN picture manager, Matthew Yelland, also joining the team. Entries will be assessed on a variety of criteria, including visual impact, composition and emotional connection.

The winner and highly commended entries will receive £1,000 and £850 worth of personal prize, respectively. This includes Albelli Photo Books vouchers, Transcend SD Memory Cards, Photography Made Simple tuition vouchers, Serif software packages and a high-end Nikon camera.

Amateur photographers over the age of 16 can find further information and how to enter via www.faiththroughalens.co.uk. Entries will be available to view for the duration of the competition through the website and on Congregational’s social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Margaret Slater, marketing manager at Congregational, said: "In launching the 2013 Faith Through a Lens competition, we want to encourage people to capture what 'faith' means to them. We have had some interesting interpretations in previous years and I’m really looking forward to seeing what this year holds.

"The competition continually evolves and we are keen to attract new audiences. Faith in the UK plays an important role in many people’s lives and we hope to capture the diversity of this via Faith Through a Lens."

For further details of the competition, including prizes and entry requirements, and to upload your images, please visit: www.faiththroughalens.co.uk.

RAPt welcomes reform of substance misuse services

Fri, 10 May 2013 08:36:04 +0100

The Rehabilitation for Addicted Prisoners Trust (RAPt), an organisation that helps people move away from addiction and crime, has welcomed proposed changes for post-prison supervision that were announced by Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Chris Grayling, on May 9.

The government’s ‘Transforming Rehabilitation’ proposals would establish a supervision period of 12 months for those leaving prison, even if they have served a short sentence. The aim is to prevent these people from reoffending and to increase the provision of support for housing, employment, training and substance misuse.

Dan Hayes, director of development, says: “RAPt is delighted to be involved in the launch of new proposals for the reform of substance misuse services in the criminal justice system. We are a leading authority on recovery and what works.

“As the largest provider of psychosocial substance misuse services in UK prisons, we have proven that reoffending can be reduced through delivery of effective drug and alcohol treatment services.”

Earlier this week, Mr Grayling spent time with several people who have completed a RAPt drug rehab programme to understand their experience. He was also interested to hear about the organisation’s aftercare services and the asset that many former clients have become as peer mentors, both in custody and in the community.

Dr Michael Wilks, chairman of trustees at RAPt, says: “Starting with abstinence-based programmes inside prisons, we have added a variety of prison- and community-based programmes, providing treatment and support for people who are caught up in the criminal justice system as a consequence of their substance abuse.

“If the government wants to tackle reoffending and bring down the prison population, it must address the main cause of reoffending: drug use and addiction. A significant proportion of the most prolific repeat offenders have problems with drug or alcohol dependence. Almost 60% of released prisoners with a history of drug problems reoffend within one year.

“RAPt has delivered an overall reduction of 65% in the offenders it has treated. We therefore support the government’s intentions, while pointing out that considerable investment in services is required to achieve a significant impact.

“In our work, the role of peer support and role modelling has been crucial. For the most dependent and chaotic offenders, only structured and intensive programmes can achieve the sort of fundamental change in attitude and behaviour that is needed for long-term abstinence from drugs and sustained recovery.

“We at RAPt have always maintained that such intensive, recovery-orientated programmes hold the key to reducing reoffending amongst drug-dependent offenders. We look forward to working with others to maximise the role of drug and alcohol recovery, and peer mentoring, in that process.”

Recovering alcoholic to tackle 3,100-mile run

Wed, 08 May 2013 10:27:39 +0100

Recovering alcoholic Tom Fitzsimons, 38, is to run the breadth of the US to raise awareness about addiction. Starting at San Francisco on May 20, he expects to finish in New York 100 days later.

The Belfast man, who now lives in Wakefield, is undertaking the epic Run 4 Sobriety run in a bid to change attitudes towards people who are struggling with addiction, and to show addicts that there is hope.

The ex-construction worker, who regularly drank 60 units of alcohol a day (15 times the UK’s safe-drinking limits), will aim to complete a 33-mile ultra-marathon each day in a bid to complete the 3,100-mile journey.

Fewer than 100 people worldwide have ever completed the feat, and it will be even more difficult for Tom, who has a rare heart condition and damaged cartilage in his knee.

Now a personal trainer and inspirational speaker, he says: “My doctors have told me not to run, that my heart condition could kill me, and that I need an operation to fix a tear in my knee cartilage. But I refuse to let anything hold me back. If I can overcome the pain and fear of addiction, I know I can make it across America by foot and show that anything is possible.

“I’m just an ordinary guy. I have no pedigree in running. Just six years ago I took my first steps in the sport as a 19-stone man running at night to avoid embarrassment. Now I’ve tackled multiple marathons, including the Marathon des Sables, which some people say is the toughest footrace on earth.”

Tom has also chosen to run along Highway 50, known as the loneliest road in America. “I’ll run the loneliest road to make recovery from addiction a bit less bleak for many people,” he says.

What are faith groups doing to combat poverty?

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:28:00 +0100

A conference focusing on global poverty will take place on June 20 at Wells Town Hall. The event will run from 10am until 2.30pm and includes a free lunch.

The conference, entitled ‘Combating poverty: What are faith groups doing? What more can they do?’ will also focus on the effects of current and planned welfare benefit changes in the UK and investigate what can be done to alleviate any hardship they cause.

Paul Morrison, policy advisor for the Joint Public Issues Team of the Baptist, Methodist and United Reformed Churches, will discuss a recently published report entitled, ‘Truth and lies about poverty’. He will discuss the importance of speaking the truth about poverty and its causes.

Julia Hill will talk about her work with the Church Urban Fund in bringing churches together to provide food stores across Somerset.

Rick Szur from the Somerset Advice Network will speak on the financial advice available in Somerset and the role of his organisation's information hubs.

A presentation will be given on the role of the Voluntary Sector Partnership in Somerset and the benefits it offers faith groups and other community organisations, as will a presentation from the Somerset Equality Officers Group on the important role of faith groups in signposting people to advice on benefit changes.

Contact Alistair Beattie (alistair@faithnetsouthwest.org.uk; 0117 3042298) to find out more.

IF campaign to host London event on June 8

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:17:03 +0100

Supporters of the Enough Food For Everyone IF campaign have been invited to a Big IF afternoon of action on June 8. The free event will take place in London’s Hyde Park from 2pm until 5pm.

David Cameron and other world leaders will meet at the G8 summit in the UK this June, and significant progress could potentially be made during the summit to help hardworking families put food on the table. Those who want to add their voices to the debate are invited to gather in London to raise awareness of the IF initiative.

“We can make a difference IF we demand world leaders give lifesaving aid, stop tax dodging in the poorest countries, stop land grabs and grow food not biofuel,” says Sally Copley, chair of the IF campaign organising committee.

“Together, our crowd will create an iconic symbol of support for tackling hunger, using spinning flowers; a powerful reminder of the lives that could be saved IF world leaders do what’s right.”

Click here to find out more about the Big IF.

Your church can help stop malaria, claims Christian Aid

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:43:51 +0100

Christian Aid marked World Malaria Day on April 25 by urging churches to help eradicate the preventable disease. It is looking for at least 100 UK churches to help run a lifesaving malaria control project in Sierra Leone.

According to the organisation, malaria kills a child in Africa every minute and is responsible for a third of all child deaths in Sierra Leone. By pledging to raise £500 by July 1, each church will fund the work of one malaria control volunteer for a full year.

Fatmata, 24, from Kenema District in the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone, watched two of her children die from malaria, including her eight-month-old daughter.

She says: “I know now that my children would have lived if I had taken them to the hospital earlier.”

She is now determined to become a malaria control volunteer, helping to prevent other mothers in her community from experiencing the same heartbreaking consequences.

The training will teach volunteers how to spot the symptoms of malaria in themselves and others, how to get a malaria test, how to seek urgent medical treatment, how to prevent malaria by using treated bed nets correctly and how to stop mosquitoes from breeding in stagnant water around the house.

Click here to find out more and to pledge your support.

Obama should meet Kim Jong-Un, claims Tony Campolo

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 16:05:17 +0100

Tony Campolo has called on President Barack Obama to open talks with the leader of North Korea, Kim Jong-un.

Dr Campolo, former spiritual adviser to President Bill Clinton, said: “We need to find ways to make friends with North Korea. If your enemy hungers you should feed him, if he's naked you should clothe him. Those are Jesus' words.

“Can we really overcome evil with good or was he being unrealistic? The question is: how seriously do we take the scriptures?”

Co-founder of Red Letter Christians, Dr Campolo will also speak at a private briefing with UK parliamentarians at Portcullis House, Westminster, on May 15 and at the International Christian Resources Exhibition, Esher, on May 16.

“Our security is more dependent on the friends we make than the armies we deploy,” he continued.

“Kim Jong-un has asked for face-to-face talks with President Obama, but for political and diplomatic reasons he has not accepted this invitation. However, Jesus' words make it clear: before you go to war, do your best to meet your enemy and see if peace can be maintained.

“If we want our enemies to dismantle nuclear weapons we should show them we're serious; by dismantling our own. I contend we cannot expect others to do what we are not willing to do ourselves.

“It's dangerous to take Jesus seriously, but those who are not willing to live dangerously in his name ought not to call themselves his disciples.”

YFC hosts 48-hour football marathon

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:52:23 +0000

When the whistle blows after 90 minutes and it’s honours even, you can usually see the sheer exhaustion etched on the faces of professional footballers as another 30 minutes of extra time looms.

Imagine then what the men of Youth for Christ (YFC) will go through between April 30 and May 2 as they attempt to break the Guinness World Record for playing the longest continuous game of football.

The current record, set by two Canadian teams, stands at 42 hours, but YFC’s very own dream teams are in training to top it by playing for an incredible 48 hours non-stop.

The only question is, why do it? YFC national director, Gavin Calver – who is part of the team, along with nine other YFC staff and six friends – explains: “We’re passionate about football and keen to smash a world record that we care about; one that isn’t silly like lying in a bath of beans!”

To succeed, they will have to overcome fatigue, injuries and sleep deprivation, but it’s all in aid of a worthy cause. “In breaking this record,” Gavin says, “we want to raise great awareness and support for the vital gospel work we are involved in amongst teenagers throughout Britain today.”

Sorted is sponsoring the YFC team as they take on this exciting challenge. To support YFC’s record-breaking attempt yourself, visit the fundraising web page or email yfc@yfc.co.uk to find out more.

Free copies of Sorted all this week

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:45:10 +0000

Many have said that there is no such thing as a free lunch, but Sorted has gone out of its way to prove that there certainly is such a thing as a free magazine.

Throughout this week, more than 10,000 copies of the Christian men’s magazine will be distributed at bars and restaurants, and tube and railway stations across London free of charge. And as if that’s not enough, a couple of eye-catching promobikes will also traverse the capital laden with copies of the March-April issue.

"It's a brilliant opportunity to reach Londoners and tourists during Holy Week," comments Sorted editor, Steve Legg. "If they don't go to church, we go to them."

The March-April edition contains an exclusive interview with Anthony Hopkins as well as an excerpt from Bear Grylls’ new book, movie and gadget reviews, and columns from regular contributors including Jeff Lucas and Carl Beech.

Those living or working in London should keep their eyes peeled throughout the week running up to Easter (March 25-29). Alternatively, you can buy a copy of Sorted at your local WHSmith store or by clicking here.

Twins aged 84 to undertake skydive

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 11:31:13 +0000

A pair of 84-year-old twins is teaming up for a charity skydive to raise money for Christian Aid. Pensioners Frank and Ralph Land will jump out of a plane at 8,000 feet on April 1 at Dunkeswell Airfield, Devon, to raise money for some of the world’s poorest people.

Making the feat a true family affair, the duo has recruited four of Frank’s grandchildren – Izzy Burr, Emma Place, Adam Place and Chloe Place – to take part in the challenge.

Ralph, from London, will undertake the dive in memory of his wife Jacqueline, who he lost to pancreatic cancer three years ago, as well as to help Frank celebrate his 60th wedding anniversary.

Frank, who lives in Totnes, said of his marriage to wife Ailsa: "In our 60 years together we have brought up a family and have completed fulfilling careers in industry and academia. But in that time we have seen much misery worldwide, particularly in the less developed world.

"Our diamond jubilee brings our family and some good friends together, and provides an opportunity for all of us to make some contribution to the lives of others less fortunate then ourselves.

"Christian Aid's initiative in organising the skydive in the middle of our celebrations was too good an opportunity to miss.

"I tried to convince my children to take part, but they refused. However, my grandchildren agreed to do it instead, so it will be the oldies and the young’uns."

Ralph is supporting both Christian Aid and Cancer Research UK. He said: “Half the proceeds of my skydive will go to Christian Aid to support a number of vital international projects, to aid some of the millions of vulnerable people caught up in war zones, natural disasters and poverty.

“The other half will go to Cancer Research UK, specifically to seek treatment for a devastating cancer with, currently, very low survival rates."

Click here to sponsor Frank or here to sponsor Ralph.

Tom Hiddleston adds voice to Unicef’s Syria appeal

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:56:07 +0000

English actor Tom Hiddleston is supporting Unicef UK’s appeal to save children’s lives in Syria. Having appeared in a range of top films including War Horse, Thor and The Avengers, he now features in the charity’s new television campaign.

"After months of escalating violence, more and more families are fleeing their homes,” he says in the advert.

"Their children are desperate, traumatised and frightened. Nearly one million refugees have now crossed the border. And for those still in Syria, the crisis is getting worse. Without urgent action there simply won't be enough water for everyone.

"Unicef is on the ground, working night and day to provide safe drinking water, clothes and all the support we can. This is not a famine or an earthquake, but it is a crisis."

Half of the million Syrian refugees currently residing in the country's five neighbouring lands are children. Those under the age of five are most vulnerable, and cases of acute respiratory infections, flu and pneumonia are increasing as access to basic services deteriorates.

Unicef is working to provide safe drinking water, blankets, and clothes, as well as delivering other vital emergency support such as access to clean toilets, essential health services, psychological support and temporary schooling.

However, it claims that unless an 80% funding gap is bridged, it will be forced to scale back its life-saving interventions.

Supporters can text the word DONATE and the amount they wish to give to 70099 or click here to help children affected by the crisis.

Win £200 of gadget goodies with Energenie

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:28:41 +0000

Christian men’s magazine Sorted has launched a new competition for gadget and technology lovers in partnership with Energenie and The Gadget Show Live.

Worth more than £200, the prize features a ChargeGenie Portable Smartphone Charger, a ChargeGenie 200 Portable Laptop Charger and a pair of tickets to The Gadget Show Live at Birmingham's NEC from April 3-7.

As a nation, the UK is known for being technically savvy and always on the go using the latest gadgets, but the two don’t always go hand in hand.

Whether users are travelling for business or want to grab a photo while they are out and about, a dead phone or laptop battery can spell disaster.

Energy-saving device specialist Energenie launched its ChargeGenie, which it claims is the world’s first universal portable smartphone charger, in response to this dilemma. Its external battery delivers emergency battery charge when devices are on their last legs.

Its ChargeGenie 200 Portable Laptop Charger is a compact power bank that is portable enough to carry on a daily basis. With a battery capacity of 20,000mAh, it can charge a smartphone ten times over as well as charging up cameras, Sat Navs, portable games consoles and tablets.

To enter the competition, pick up a copy of Sorted from WHSmith, take a photo and either email it to steve@sorted-magazine or tweet it (@sortedmagazine). The first entry pulled out of a hat at the end of March will win the prize package.

Compassion’s Wess Stafford to speak at Spring Harvest

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:11:03 +0000

President and CEO of Compassion International, Wess Stafford, will host talks and seminars at Spring Harvest this year.

Mr Stafford grew up in the Ivory Coast with his missionary parents, watched over by his African "extended family". His best friends were the village children, who spent their days playing in the dust, keeping monkeys off the crops and firing the occasional slingshot at the mango tree. He recalls trying, on numerous occasions, to rub off his white skin so he would look more like his friends.

"Everything I need to know to lead a multinational organisation, I learned from the poor while growing up in an African village," he claims.

However, life in the West African nation was no paradise. Mr Stafford frequently saw his friends die from the cruel ravages of poverty, malaria, cholera, typhoid and yellow fever.

The youngster spent nine months of the year at boarding school, where he experienced physical, psychological and even sexual abuse. The experiences could have broken the young man, but he has used everything life has thrown at him to advocate for a better future for the world’s children.

Mr Stafford spent 15 years working with Compassion, both in the US and overseas, before becoming its president in 1993. Under his leadership, the number of children served by the organisation has increased from 180,000 in 1993 to more than 1.3 million in 26 of the world’s poorest countries today.

While he earned degrees from Biola University, Moody Bible Institute and Wheaton College, as well as a PhD from Michigan State, titles and accolades mean very little to him.

"It doesn’t matter whether a person is a major donor, a needy child, or an acquaintance in an airport," he says. "The truth is this: in God’s economy, there are no disposable people."

Mr Stafford will speak at the Minehead Main Session on April 2, 7 and 12 and host seminars on April 3, 8 and 13. He will speak at the Skegness Main Session on April 5 and host a seminar on April 6.

You can read more about Mr Stafford’s life in his book, Too Small to Ignore and find out more about Compassion at www.compassionuk.org.

New Tearfund app lets people have their say

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 17:13:16 +0000

According to Tearfund, smartphone users can now "change the world from the palm of their hand" with its new Nudge app.

The app makes it easy for ordinary people to lobby MPs, petition governments and share campaign news. It also gives users the option to instantly share issues with friends on Twitter and Facebook, where the impact is much greater.

"With the Nudge app you reach powerful decision makers in an instant, nudge all those you couldn’t find before, or were slow to reply," says Craig Philbrick, who created the app. "Think of it as democracy in the palm of your hand."

The app has a Facebook feature, which means people can take campaign actions without needing to download the app, making it very easy to use on the move as well as outside the UK.

Tearfund says its online campaign activity has soared in the last two years, with visits to the charity’s website increasing from 3% to 11%.

"Nudge is the latest tool to help empower more people to speak out about the things that matter in society," adds Mr Philbrick.

"We know that campaigning changes the lives of some of the poorest people around the world. The app will make a real difference in how people participate in this change."

Meanwhile, songwriter and activist Andy Flannagan said: "I imagine if Wilberforce was around today he would be using the Nudge app.

"It’s social media that tackles injustice rather than help you hide from your real neighbours. Tearfund’s app is a great little pocket protester."

Android and iPhone users can get the Nudge at www.tearfund.org/app.

Honesty the best policy for homeless man

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:24:40 +0000

A homeless man who returned a diamond engagement ring to its rightful owner is to receive a reward of more than £100,000 ($150,000).

Billy Ray Harris found the ring in his collection cup after Sarah Darling deposited some coins in it. She had placed the ring in her coin purse for safekeeping and forgotten it was in there when she came to make the donation.

"The ring was so big that I knew if it was real, it was expensive," Mr Harris told KCTV.

When Ms Darling returned to the site and asked Mr Harris if he had seen it, he promptly handed it over.

Grateful to have it returned, Ms Darling gave him all the cash she had in her wallet at the time. Her fiancé then set up a website seeking donations for the man who had so honestly returned the ring. More than 6,000 people have already donated a collective $148,000 and the pot is still growing.

Not only did Ms Darling describe the event as a "miracle", Mr Harris said his faith-based upbringing played a part in his decision to return the ring.

"My grandfather was a reverend," Mr Harris told the Kansas-based TV station. "He raised me from the time I was six months old and thank the good Lord, it's a blessing, but I do still have some character."

Originally designed for friends of the couple to make small donations, the GiveForward.com appeal exceeded its $1,000 target within a couple of days. Just 11 days into the 90-day campaign, the amount raised stands at almost $150,000.

Since the story broke, there have been reports that the news brought about a reconciliation betweeen Mr Harris and his sister Robin after a separation of almost 20 years.

Jim Rosenthal backs BHF heart disease campaign

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 13:32:44 +0000

TV sports presenter Jim Rosenthal is encouraging people to get involved in the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF's) Heart Walks campaign.

Participants will take part in a walk of between one and seven miles and funds raised will go to the Mending Broken Hearts Appeal, which provides much-needed research on heart health.

The walks will take place in eight towns and cities: Paisley (3 miles, March 9); Falkirk (4 or 7 miles, March 16); Leeds (2.5 or 5 miles, March 23); Rhyl (as many circuits of 1km track as participants like, March 23); Beverley (1.2 miles, March 24); Coleraine (2.5 miles, March 24); Salisbury (3 miles, March 24); Druridge Bay (6 miles, March 24); and Worcester (4 miles, March 24).

Rosenthal, who will join the Worcester walk, said: "I am proud to be supporting the Heart Walk series of events for the BHF.

"Walking is a great way to help keep your heart healthy, so I am looking forward to a fun-filled day out with the family, all in the name of a great cause."

Click here for free registration.

New 'Count Your Blessings' Lent app launches

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 10:32:27 +0000

Christian Aid has launched a new mobile app to encourage people to pause and think about their lives and the lives of others during Lent, which starts on February 13.

Using stunning photography and thought-provoking daily reflections, the free Count Your Blessings app aims to be a source of inspiration throughout the 40-day Lent period.

Users can access daily notifications, hear uplifting stories from Christian Aid projects and support some of the world’s poorest people.

Optimised for the retina display on iPhones, iPads and HD Android devices, but also available on non-HD devices, the app shows off some of the best images from around the world taken from the extensive Christian Aid photo archive.

Christian Aid’s head of communications, Steven Buckley, hopes the app will enrich people’s prayer lives during the festive period.

"Lent is a great opportunity to stop and think about the many blessings we enjoy and to spare a thought for those less fortunate," he says.

"Many of us live busy lives and finding time to do this can be difficult. The app is designed to be easy to use and accessible while on the go.

"Lent isn’t just about giving up things we enjoy. It can be a time to be thoughtful, to pray and take positive actions which make a difference to our fellow human beings."

The app can be downloaded from the Apple Store and Google Play, or by clicking here.

Michael Sheen heads to Chad with UNICEF

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 10:07:54 +0000

British actor Michael Sheen headed to Chad in January with children’s charity UNICEF. He witnessed first hand how the £4.9million raised by Soccer Aid and matched pound for pound by the UK government, is helping to change children’s lives in the West African nation.

Sheen, who appeared in The Queen, Frost/Nixon and Twilight, is also captain of the Rest of the World Soccer Aid team.

During his visit to Chad, he visited hospitals and health centres being helped by Soccer Aid and UK government funding, where children are treated for malnutrition and health complications.

He said: "The work being done in Chad is truly remarkable. Families need urgent help and support there, and Soccer Aid donations and the pound-for-pound UK government Aid Match are helping UNICEF to provide this. It was a privilege to see how children’s lives are being truly changed."

A crowd of nearly 70,000 turned out to see star players including Will Ferrell, Gerard Butler, Woody Harrelson, Mike Myers, Jason Isaacs, James McAvoy and Edward Norton alongside team captains Robbie Williams and Michael Sheen in the climactic match that resulted in England defeating the Rest of the World 3-1 on May 27, 2012.

Short films were broadcast throughout the match, presented by UNICEF UK ambassadors Robbie Williams and Ewan McGregor and by UNICEF supporters Keira Knightley, Lewis Hamilton, Eddie Izzard and Keeley Hawes to show how the charity helps some of the world’s most vulnerable children.

The four Soccer Aid events in 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2012 have collectively raised more than £12 million for UNICEF.

On the Brink of something special

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:12:39 +0000

The first ever Brink conference will take place at Christ Church Cottingham on April 13.

The one-day event will explore what the future could look as society and the Church continue to change. It will involve teaching and discussion, and will provide participants with a range of resources to take away.

A time of praise and worship will be led by The Remission Flow and guest speakers will include: Dr John Andrews, senior pastor of Renewal Christian Centre in Solihull and part-time lecturer at Mattersley Hall College and Graduate School; Paul Maconochie, senior leader of Network Church Sheffield, leader of the Covenant Kingdom Network and guardian of The Order of Mission; and Matt Wilson, national director of The Eden Network, part of the executive leadership team at The Message Trust and author of three books.

"I am convinced of the power of God's good news message to the world and I remain committed to equipping God's people for the task of showing Him to His world," says Dr Andrews.

"My dream for the day is that leaders are envisioned and empowered through the Spirit and Word to be who God has made them to be and live in the way for which they were designed!"

Mr Maconochie adds: "Involvement by our churches in our local communities is essential if we are to share the good news of Jesus and see transformation come to our neighbourhoods.

"At Network Church Sheffield we have been learning how to engage with our city through extended family-sized groups called Missional Communities, reaching out to many hundreds of people across the different communities of Sheffield.

"I am looking forward to sharing with some of the things we have learned about how to be effective as families on mission."

Early bird tickets are £16, increasing to £21 after March 1. The ticket price includes a buffet lunch and refreshments. Visit brinknet.eventbrite.co.uk to find out more and to book tickets.

Moob reductions down but male brow lifts up

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 11:46:49 +0000

Figures from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) showed that body-shaping operations such as liposuction, tummy tucks and ‘man boob’ reductions fell out of favour quite dramatically in 2012 compared with facial anti-ageing procedures. It is believed more Brits are now heading to the gym rather than under the knife.

The largest increase was in male brow lifts, which rose 19%. Eyelid surgery and fat transfer also proved popular with both genders, showing a rise of 13%, as did facelifts (+14%). Abdominoplasty (tummy tucks) and liposuction tumbled in demand, falling 12% and 14%, respectively.

Male breast or ‘moob’ reduction surgery was down by 18%, but maintained its place as the third-most-popular procedure for men. Male surgery overall fell by 4.5%, from 4,298 operations in 2011 to 4,102 in 2012. Men still account for roughly 10% of all cosmetic surgery patients.

The number of overall cosmetic surgery procedures remained static in 2012. Facial rejuvenation treatments proved the nation's favourites with eyelid surgery, fat transfer, brow and face lifts all experiencing a double-digit rise.

On the whole, the number of surgical procedures showed a barely-perceptible rise of 0.2% from 2011 to a total of 43,172, and their order of popularity remained largely unchanged.

According to Rajiv Grover, consultant plastic surgeon and president of the BAAPS: “The considerable drop in body-shaping procedures such as liposuction and tummy tucks may well be due to people choosing to head back to the gym (perhaps inspired by an unforgettable summer of Olympic golds!) or the fact that there are now many less-invasive options to target problem areas, such as for gynaecomastia or ‘man boobs’.”

UNICEF welcomes funding for Syria, but Christian Aid says more needs to be done

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 13:34:21 +0000

UNICEF has been given £1 million by the Department for International Development (DfID) to help save the lives of children affected by conflict in Syria.

This funding, which will be used to provide emergency humanitarian supplies, was part of a £21 million aid package announced by International Development Secretary, Justine Greening, on January 26.

In total, the UK has now provided £89.5 million in humanitarian aid for Syria.

Welcoming the news, UNICEF UK’s executive director, David Bull, said: “This announcement from DfID is great news for UNICEF’s vital work to protect children affected by the conflict in Syria. When I visited the Za’atari refugee camp last year, the families were dreading the winter conditions which have now become a reality and are continuing to put children at risk.

“The recent freezing temperatures across the region and recent flooding in the refugee camps make this donation even vital for Syria’s children. I hope members of the British public will follow the government’s lead and do what they can to help Syria’s vulnerable children at this time.”

Estimates suggest that around four million children will be affected by the conflict in Syria. UNICEF claims that it will need £121 million to help the country’s children between January and June alone. It seeks to protect these kids from winter conditions, get them back to school, increase access to drinking water and toilets, provide essential health services, and support those who are in distress.

However, while Christian Aid and other charitable organisations recognise the valuable work that is being done in Syria, they feel more needs to be done have called on the international community to step up.

On January 29, on the eve of a key meeting of donor counties, a coalition of six international humanitarian agencies warned that the UN’s record $1.5 billion Syria humanitarian appeal remains only 3% funded, and noted that some of the world’s richest countries have failed to provide sufficient support.

According to these organisations, almost a quarter of the world’s GDP is concentrated in six countries: Brazil, Japan, China, South Korea, Russia and Mexico. However these countries are failing the people of Syria with contributions that are considerably lower than other countries with comparable wealth. The coalition said that the US, the UK and France also have to act to ensure they play their part.

Janet Symes, Christian Aid’s head of Middle East region, said: “Syria is currently facing an overwhelming humanitarian crisis and many of the world’s richer countries are not stepping up to help. Currently the basic needs of millions of civilians are not being met.

“Prices of flour and fuel are rising and there are large scale shortages of bread. Over 60,000 people are reported killed and millions of homes have been damaged or destroyed, leaving people forced to sleep in the streets, in mosques and in schools.”

Reyhana Patel, policy and research analyst at Islamic Relief - another member of the coalition - added: “A total of five million people – one in four Syrians – are in need of humanitarian assistance both outside and inside the country. The international community is failing the people of Syria.

“The UN’s emergency appeal for $1.5 billion is only 3% funded. All governments now need to contribute at least their fair share and ensure that the agencies responding to the Syria crisis have the necessary funds. It is time to stand up and be counted.”

Yachting legend unveils new Clipper fleet

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:22:56 +0000

Yachting legend Sir Robin Knox-Johnston revealed the latest phase in the development of his famous Clipper Round the World Yacht Race on January 11.

Forty-five years after he embarked on his successful attempt to become the first man to sail solo non-stop around the world, Knox-Johnston appeared at St Katharine Docks near Tower Bridge to unveil the Clipper 70, the first of a new fleet of global racing yachts that will allow hundreds of ordinary people to participate in an extraordinary adventure: circumnavigating the planet in the world’s longest ocean race.

In 1995, Sir Robin launched the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race with the vision of enabling ordinary people from all walks of life to experience ocean racing. Today the Clipper Race remains the only global ocean race open to amateur participants.

Successive new fleets have helped to develop the experience of the crew and the capacity of the race, while millions of people across the globe follow its progress throughout the year-long series of 15 races that comprise the 40,000-mile challenge for the Clipper Race Trophy.

The new fleet of twelve Clipper 70s will be the world’s biggest matched fleet of large ocean racers allowing more than 600 crew to take on the challenge of sailing the world’s oceans under the guidance of professional skippers; and the introduction of a new bigger, faster, state-of-the-art design fleet is already creating great anticipation for the ninth edition of the Clipper Race that will start in August this year.

"Sailing has given me a great deal of pleasure and I wanted to make it available to people from all walks of life who did not have the confidence or resources to go on a long voyage,” said Sir Robin.

“We provide the boats, the training and all the race support and management. The crew add a sense of adventure and a competitive spirit. The combination creates the world’s most famous race for amateur sailors.

“We’ve learned a great deal over the last 17 years which is reflected in the extensively developed and highly refined product we offer today. The launch of the Clipper 70 marks another exciting step in that development and will allow even more people to take part in the challenge of a lifetime,” he added.

The first of the Clipper 70s will be at St Katharine Docks in London until January 20 and is open to anyone who wants to get a taste of how Clipper Race crew will live during their year-long adventure. Clipper Race staff will be on hand to answer questions about the new yacht, the Clipper Race and how to take part.

EA questions Human Rights court rulings

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 11:29:33 +0000

The European Court of Human Rights ruled on four religious freedom cases on January 15, finding in favour of one Christian but against the three others whose cases were tried.

The court found in favour of Nadia Eweida, ruling that she had her religious freedom unlawfully restricted when she was told by British Airways that she was not allowed to wear a cross visibly at work.

Judges ruled Nadia Eweida's rights had been violated under Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights. She was asked to leave her job in 2006 after refusing to remove her cross.

The other cases involved: nurse Shirley Chaplin, who was demoted by Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Trust Hospital for refusing to stop wearing a cross at work; Gary McFarlane, a former Relate marriage counsellor who was sacked after he said he might object to giving sex therapy advice to gay couples; and registrar Lillian Ladele, who was disciplined by Islington Council after she refused to conduct same-sex civil partnership ceremonies.

Dr Dave Landrum, director of advocacy for the Evangelical Alliance, said: “The court’s recognition of Christian belief in everyday life is welcome, but in only finding in favour of Nadia Eweida, it has shown a hierarchy of rights now exists in UK law.

“While for some the cross is a vital part of their worship, at the heart of Christianity is not about a set of rules, but a God that brings people into a new life of freedom. This new life is then lived out 24-7 and cannot ever be restricted to just our private lives.

“If UK courts are going to protect religious freedom more fully in the future they need to better understand the nature of Christian belief. Developing better religious literacy needs to become a priority.

“The failure of the court to protect the religious freedom of Lillian Ladele in living out her faith in a way consistent with historic Christian belief shows the limitations of this judgement. We need solutions that will allow for the reasonable accommodation of the expressions of religious belief in all its diverse forms.

“If we want to live in a society that is diverse and can live with its deepest differences there needs to be a fuller protection for religious beliefs, convictions and actions.

“We hope that in the light of today’s decision, employers, public bodies, and courts will seek to understand religious belief better and build relationships with faith groups to help achieve this. The alternative of a society that is in perpetual legal conflict with itself is both undesirable and unsustainable.”

Fewer men applying for university

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 17:08:49 +0000

Universities in England must do more to attract applications from white working-class boys, Minister of State for Universities and Science, David Willetts, claims.

He told The Independent that the demographic could approached in the same way as other ‘minority’ groups.

Boys are now outnumbered at university by girls and university intake figures last autumn suggest there has been a larger drop in applications from boys than girls. Just 30% of male school-leavers applied to university for autumn 2012, compared to 40% of female school-leavers, according to Ucas.

Mr Willetts told The Independent that the Office for Fair Access "can look at a range of disadvantaged groups – social class and ethnicity, for instance – when it comes to access agreements, so I don't see why they couldn't look at white, working-class boys".

He suggested the drop was "the culmination of a decades-old trend in our education system which seems to make it harder for boys and men to face down the obstacles in the way of learning... That is a challenge for all policymakers and parties."

"I do worry about what looks like increasing underperformance by young men," he added.

Poll shows surprising number of footballers suffer from depression

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 16:38:13 +0000

According to a new survey from football magazine Four Four Two, a large number of footballers in the UK suffer from depression.

A preview of the magazine’s February issue revealed that 78% of footballing professionals surveyed suggested that depression is a problem for footballers.

Following Gary Speed's tragic death in 2011, players' battles with depression became more of an issue and the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) sent out advice leaflets to 50,000 ex-players.

Former Wales international and manager, Speed took his own life after battling with depression, as did former Germany goalkeeper Robert Enke in 2009. There have also been reports that former Hull City striker Dean Windass tried to commit suicide earlier this year.

One League One player told the magazine: “It can affect a lot of players. I know because I have been there. The easy route was to give up the game completely; I was in a dark place.”

The poll also revealed that 26% of those questioned had witnessed racism in the game, while 14% believe match-fixing takes place. Around 43% said there were too many foreign players in English football, while 50% claimed that recreational drugs were used by some footballers.

Bishop of Lincoln spends night in a stable

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 10:23:17 +0000

The Bishop of Lincoln spent a cold winter’s night in a stable on December 20 to raise money for those without a roof over their head.

The Rt Revd Christopher Lowson slept in a stable near Harmston in Lincolnshire in a bid to raise £5,000 to support Christian Aid’s Favela project in Brazil and the work of the Nomad Trust, a homeless charity in Lincoln.

Ahead of his stable stay, he said: “The nativity story is often romanticised into something rather charming and magical, and by doing this I hope to discover some of the harsh realities experienced by Mary and Joseph and hundreds of people around the country and the world who have no bed to sleep in.

“Anything people can give to help me raise much-needed money for those in overwhelming need close to home, and those around the world, will be greatly appreciated.”

With just a sleeping bag and a flask, the Bishop spent the night on a bed made from straw bales. He was supported by other clergy in the Lincoln Diocese who braved the cold December night in stables across Lincolnshire.

Mara Manzoni Luz, Christian Aid’s country manager for Brazil, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Bishop Christopher for braving the cold conditions to raise funds for those in São Paulo in Brazil who are unable to find work and accommodation and have no alternative but to sleep on the streets or in favelas each night.

“We are grateful to all in his diocese and around the UK who are committed to ending the scandal of poverty and inequality.”

Christianity remains UK’s main religion

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 18:49:35 +0000

Despite falling numbers, Christianity remained the largest religion in England and Wales, according to the 2011 Census. Around 33.2 million people (59.3%) described themselves as Christian.

Muslims are the next biggest religious group and this group has grown in the last decade (2.7 million people, or 4.8% of the population).

Around 14.1 million people reported having no religion, representing approximately one-quarter of the population.

The religion question was the only voluntary question on the 2011 census and 7.2% of people did not answer the question.

Between 2001 and 2011, there has been a decrease in the number of people who identify themselves as Christian (from 71.7% to 59.3%) and an increase in those reporting no religion (from 14.8% to 25.1%). There were increases in the other main religious categories, with the number of Muslims increasing the most (from 3% to 4.8%).

In 2011, London was the most diverse region, with the highest proportion of people identifying themselves as Muslim, Bhuddist, Hindu and Jewish. The North East and North West had the highest proportion of Christians and Wales had the highest proportion of people reporting no religion.

Knowsley was the local authority with the highest proportion of people reporting to be Christians at 80.9% and Tower Hamlets had the highest proportion of Muslims at 34.5% (more than seven times the average England and Wales figure). Norwich had the highest proportion of the population reporting no religion at 42.5%.

Free Kindle ebook shows Hubble’s take on creation

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 21:11:07 +0000

Since its launch, the Hubble telescope has captured a photo drama of creation and a whole new world for man to explore, according to author Paul Hutchins.

Each week, Hubble collects and transmits back to earth enough data to fill 18 DVDs, or the equivalent of 3,600 feet of books on a shelf.

Over the past two decades, it has beamed hundreds of thousands of images back to Earth, shedding light on many of the great mysteries of astronomy.

Hutchins’ book, Hubble Reveals Creation by an Awe-Inspiring Power, retraces the history of the telescope from Galileo, and is based on Hubble's discoveries made over the past two decades. It chronicles how Hubble has photographed the greatest cinematic drama in human history, opening up a whole new world of exploration, while giving humanity a new sense of smallness in comparison to the universe.

Commenting, Hutchins says: "In the wake of recent super storms like Sandy the question we must face is; have we already passed the tipping point to where our children's future is lost to a toxic and overheated planet created by our generation, through the poor use of imagination and self-gratification?"

The ebook is available free on Amazon from December 7-9 and 14-15.

Brighton to host special Christmas Nativity

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 19:00:48 +0000

A unique retelling of the Christmas story will take place in Brighton this December with the inaugural performance of Soul by the Sea’s Christmas Nativity.

Director and actor James Burke-Dunsmore, who has taken the part of Jesus Christ on stage, film, TV and radio for more than 14 years, will lead a volunteer cast from Brighton to retell the story of Jesus’ birth.

Theatre professionals have been working alongside the Brighton community to put on a truly gritty and moving performance that is as close as possible to scriptural accounts.

The Christmas Nativity has been written and performed as a prelude to and fundraiser for Brighton’s Easter Passion Play 2013. A proportion of the income from both events will be donated to local charity, Off the Fence.

Mr Burke-Dunsmore says: “It has been a wonderful experience working with the Brighton community to create Soul by the Sea’s first ever Christmas Nativity.

“I am continually amazed by the high calibre of acting and am delighted that this year we are able to bring the Christmas Nativity to the south coast.”

Performances will take place nightly from December 18-21 at St Mary’s Church, Brighton. Tickets are £10 (plus booking fee) and are available from www.soulbythesea.info or by calling 0800 7408 254.

Doors open at 7pm, and mulled wine and mince pies will be available before each performance.

Surprise your pals with the weird and wonderful this Christmas

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 15:27:57 +0000

Zombies, Werewolves, Vampires & Rioters…surprise your mates with the weird and wonderful this Christmas…

www.wish.co.uk

WOLFMEN

This involved getting kitted out with an AK47, stab vest and riot shield whilst hunting for werewolves in the woods. You learn survival and search and rescue skills from military professionals and use trip wires and explosive booby traps to catch werewolves. What with the last film of Twilight being release in November this is very apt.

£99

VAMPIRE HUNTERS

On arrival you will be issued with a helmet, safety specs, stab vest and un dead handling gloves. With basic weapon training from ex-military instructors who will teach you everything you need to know about how to kill a vampire.

£99

ZOMBIE BATTLE LONDON

At the bunker you’ll be briefed, trained and be given full instruction on how to tackle these pesky zombie types. You’ll then be provided with three types of weaponry to utilise against the hideous enemy. Then the Undead Response Unit will show you techniques to destroy these re-animated rascals. For three and a half hours you’ll undertake missions under the watchful eye of your commanders.

£115

RIOT TRAINING

The experience pits would-be rioters, equipped with smoke bombs, Molotov cocktails and other missiles against an army of riot police. During the day a former British Army officer teaches the basics of rioting and riot policing, which he learnt first-hand in Northern Ireland and customers can take part as rioters and/or riot police.

£79

Christian Aid welcomes government response to DRC crisis

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 10:26:03 +0000

Christian Aid has welcomed the UK government’s plan to engage urgently with Congolese, Rwandan and Ugandan governments to help peace and stability return to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

As a result of heavy fighting between DRC government forces and M23 rebels, thousands of civilians are fleeing while others have been forced to abandon the camps to which they fled during the fighting earlier this year.

This has only worsened the humanitarian crisis with reports that 700,000 already displaced people in Goma and surrounding areas are at risk. With the M23 expanding their area of control this figure is likely to rise further.

After a lull in violence, fighting restarted in the region on November 22 and has culminated in the rebels taking control of the provincial capital Goma, pushing back the DRC army and UN troops. Protection of civilians is now a major concern following past M23 atrocities.

A report from the UN Group of Experts has revealed that Rwanda and Uganda support armed groups, including the M23 rebels, who continue to commit atrocities such as rape and executions in the region. The report goes as far as stating that Rwanda is in full control of the M23 rebels and making all of the group’s decisions.

Both governments have strongly denied this when similar allegations were made previously. The report contains strong evidence, gathered by a group of respected international experts and based on eyewitness testimony. The UK must act on this evidence in its dealings with Rwanda and Uganda.

Chantal Daniels, policy and advocacy advisor for Central Africa at Christian Aid, said: “With the current upsurge of violence and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation, there is a desperate need for the UK government to position itself clearly and to push actively for solutions for the current military and humanitarian crisis in the DRC.

“This requires robust engagement with all relevant actors in the region to end the fighting and to step up efforts to guarantee protection of civilians and increased means for humanitarian assistance.

“We want the UK government to use its leverage and influence in the region, as well as a Security Council Member, to invest in the development of a long-term stabilisation framework that addresses local, national and regional root causes of the conflict.

“We believe that neutral mediation for these negotiations is absolutely key to ensure commitment from all actors to the conflict. Specifically, we are asking the UK to promote the appointment of a UN/AU Special Envoy to lead such mediation in close collaboration with the International Conference on the Great Lakes.”

God TV hosts major event in Norway

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 11:55:59 +0000

Founded in the UK in 1995 as Europe’s first daily Christian network, God TV has expanded worldwide with offices in several countries. The newest of these is its Nordic Office, and to mark its opening the global network will be hosting a ‘Winter Celebration’ from December 6-9.

Hosted by God TV founders, Rory and Wendy Alec, Winter Celebration offers an itinerary for the whole family that includes morning Bible study sessions and a Sunday service with Andrew Wommack; evening revival meetings with Nathan Morris and Roy Fields; a Christmas concert with leading Norwegian artists; and activities for children.

The four-day event will be held at the Oslofjord Convention Centre in Tønsberg, Norway and God TV viewers from all across Europe are expected to attend. The network will broadcast its evening revival meetings live to a potential audience of more than 600 million people, and a ‘When Heaven Came to Earth’ Christmas concert will air on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Andrew Wommack is an internationally acclaimed Bible teacher from Colorado Springs in the USA known for his messages on God’s grace; Nathan Morris is a British evangelist from South Yorkshire, known for the Bay Revival, which attracts capacity crowds in cities across the USA; and Roy Fields is a popular worship leader from Florida.

Norwegian artists appearing at When Heaven Came to Earth include Harald Høidahl and Edward John, and the event will also feature a performance from the DM Dancers.

“God has divinely placed God TV in the Nordic region at this time, ” said God TV chief executive, Rory Alec. “Tønsberg has a rich spiritual heritage, there are deep wells of revival to draw from in Norway and we are going to see an outpouring of God’s power across this region. Winter Celebration is the perfect way to start the Christmas season, we are going to have a phenomenal time and I encourage everyone to join us.”

Help flush away poverty on November 19

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 12:16:28 +0000

During pregnancy and childbirth, women are particularly vulnerable to diseases caused by poor water and sanitation. This contributes to a high maternal death rate in developing countries.

Furthermore, research shows that motherless children are ten times more likely to die before their second birthday.

To combat the problem, UK-based charities Cord and Tearfund have linked up to launch Toilet Twinning, a new way to help transform lives in poor communities across the world.

Those who agree to twin their toilets, at a cost of £60, will receive a framed certificate of their toilet's twin, containing a photo, the latrine's location and its GPS coordinates so you can look it up on Google Maps.

The UK toilet can be located at home, school or work, and will be twinned with a toilet in Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, the Democratic Republic of Congo or Sierra Leone.

Tearfund and Cord will use the money raised to provide access to better sanitation, clean water and hygiene education.

The two charities are encouraging people in the UK to celebrate World Toilet Day (November 19) by signing up to its Toilet Twinning initiative.

Church growth seminars to run in Merseyside

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 17:13:10 +0100

Michael Harvey, an international speaker focusing on church growth, will lead a series of seminars across Merseyside over the next month.

As one of the founders of the Back to Church Sunday campaign, Michael has visited hundreds of churches around the world and met with leaders and congregations in dozens of countries. As a result he has developed a challenging and insightful seminar to help leaders and churches to promote growth.

In association with Together for the Harvest (TFH), Michael Harvey will host seminars in: St Leonard’s, Bootle (October 28 at 7pm); Hope Corner, Runcorn (October 29 at 7pm); Frontline, Wavertree (October 30 at 7.30pm), King’s Church, Birkenhead (November 1, 7pm); and St Mark’s, Haydock (November 23, 7pm).

Free tickets for Premier's men’s conference

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 13:44:54 +0100

Premier Christian Radio will host a one-day conference for men on November 3.

According to organisers, the event is “for Christian men who really want to get to grips with big issues like integrity, sex, porn, men in church and who wears the trousers at home”.

Topics at the Man-Sized Issues event will include integrity; sex and intimacy; male headship; and macho Christianity. Speakers will include Justin Brierley, Stuart Briscoe, Krish Kandiah, Eric Delve and Nick Drake.

The conference runs from 9am to 4.30pm at St John’s Hill, Clapham Junction. Tickets are free and can be booked at www.premier.org.uk/mansizedissues. A limited number of tickets will be available on the door on a first-come, first-served basis.

New Nottingham church holds 750 people

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 20:04:37 +0100

A brand new church in Nottingham designed to hold up to 750 people held its first full day of services on October 7. Up to 600 people already attend Sunday services during term time.

The Cornerstone Church has a large foyer and auditorium as well as 40 toilets, a sizeable kitchen, an activity hall and three smaller activity rooms, a staff office, a lounge, a crèche, a coffee bar and a dining area. The £6 million building has been built on the site of a furniture showroom in Castle Boulevard.

Senior pastor Peter Lewis told the BBC: "The whole thing is light and colourful; not what many people associate with church."

He added: "We've so far raised £4 million out of the £6 million we needed and that has mainly come from within the church.

"We don't have rich businessmen, we have struggling young professionals, lots of those, and the stories of how people were able to give is just deeply moving.

"There was one man who comes in a wheelchair, he's got cerebral palsy, and he has given half his life savings."

ROC to hold Belfast workshops on October 10

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 20:38:48 +0100

Two free ROC Projects Workshops will take place in Belfast on October 10. Visitors can attend either the morning workshop (10am to 12pm) or the afternoon session (2pm to 4pm) as the content will be the same at each.

The aim of these workshops is to equip participants to set up their own ROC Projects. The sessions will cover how to establish, find resources for, and sustain a project.

ROC founder Debra Green will attend the event alongside local ROC ambassadors who are involved in Northern Ireland-based ROC Projects.

Alfa Romeo supports Heart Research UK

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 10:44:35 +0100

Alfa Romeo has launched a new campaign in aid of Heart Research UK, encouraging fashion conscious members of the public to ‘get smart for hearts’ by wearing one of six specially designed pocket squares to support the charity’s fight against heart disease.

The limited edition pocket squares, priced at £14.99 each, are handmade in Italy using 100% Italian silk and designed by some well-known faces from the worlds of sport, business and fashion.

Design contributions have come from Dragons Den star and entrepreneur Peter Jones CBE; Team GB long jumper Chris Tomlinson and actor Tom Ellis, together with fashion label PPQ and 2012 Alfa Romeo Young Designer of the Year Janine Clark.

A sixth pocket square design celebrates 50 years of the Giulia. Launched in 1962, the Alfa Giulia was renowned for its style, performance and innovation, selling over a million examples during its 15 year production run.

Pocket squares, the fashion accessory à la mode among the sartorially inclined, have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity thanks to the likes of the Mad Menwardrobes and dapper Brit style icons such as actors Benedict Cumberbatch and Matt Smith, and musician Tinie Tempah. Major fashion labels including Dolce & Gabbana, Dunhill, Hermes and Louis Vuitton have all produced pocket squares as part of their recent collections.

Percy Parker, co-founder and designer at PPQ, says: “Pocket squares add colour and individuality to any formalwear. From business suits to black tie, they’re a must-have accessory for any well-heeled gentleman. With these limited edition Alfa pocket squares, now you can look the part, whilst benefitting a great cause.”

Just 6,000 Alfa pocket squares have been produced, going on sale from 3 September and available online from www.alfaromeo.co.uk/pocketsquares in participating Alfa Romeo showrooms. September will also mark a dedicated month of fundraising for the campaign, with nationwide support from Alfa’s dealer network.

Peter Jones says: “This is a great project to be part of and I’m delighted with how my design has turned out. These accessories are beautifully made, stylish, sophisticated and they benefit a fantastic charity. So ‘tailor your ticker’ and show some heart for the great causes being helped.”

Damien Dally, head of brand, Alfa Romeo UK, says: “Alfa’s brand strapline is ‘Without heart, we would be mere machines’ and that’s a poignant message for this campaign. We’re delighted to be supporting Heart Research UK’s important cause with a project that raises money and awareness through fashionable style. So get smart for your heart and wear a pocket square with pride this year.”

For more information on Alfa Pocket Squares, visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk/pocketsquares.

Bible Society launches Jamaican Patois Bible

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 09:54:15 +0100

A new, vibrant version of the New Testament in Jamaican Patois will officially launch on October 9 at the Jamaican High Commission in London. A more community-focused launch will take place on October 13 at Villa Park in Birmingham.

The translation has been described as “unusual” and “controversial”. Jesus becomes “Jiizas” and instead of “hallowed be your name”, the Lord's Prayer says “mek piipl av nof rispek fi yu an yu niem”.

It is the result of 20 years’ work by the Bible Society of the West Indies, and is said to be the first time that Patois has ever been comprehensively written.

Rev Courtney Stewart, general secretary of the Bible Society of the West Indies, says that having the Bible in Patois means the language has ‘come of age’.

“We have blazed a trail that no one in the 400-year history of our language has done,” he says. “Yes, Patois has played a part in music, drama and entertainment. But we have taken the language and gone directly to the most serious and highly-regarded and most respected work, the Bible.

“To suggest that certain languages are not worthy of the word of God is arrogant and ignorant. Patois is the language in which we dream.

“The Scriptures are not meant to be obscure and inaccessible, that’s why they have been translated from Greek and Hebrew. Who are we to determine which languages are worthy of the Bible? They all are.”

Click here to see a sample.

Stewardship releases free video resource

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 09:08:37 +0100

With reports suggesting Harvest Festivals within UK churches are in perpetual decline, Christian charity Stewardship has released a free video resource that aims to help congregations and community groups reconnect with the harvest period.

The resource focuses on the importance of work, generosity and thankfulness in the 21st century and is available to view online or as a free download.

Produced and directed by Chris Martinez from Pinyata Productions, the video follows a day in the life of a modern extended family as they go about their day-to-day lives. It concludes at the end of the day as the family come together around the dinner table to share food and give thanks to God.

It is designed to complement HOPE Together’s harvest resource pack, which offers ideas to help churches make the most of harvest and to explore workplace and community mission.

Debbie Wright, Stewardship’s head of content, explains the purpose of the video: “We hope that this short film will be a helpful and inspiring resource to help churches and communities rediscover this important Christian festival.

“Although the reality is that few of us spend time cultivating the land, there are so many other ways in which we can give thanks to God for his generosity.

“The video celebrates modern-day life, reminding us that the 21st century harvest can take many forms.”

Click here to view the video.

St John Neville’s Cross seeks youth worker

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 14:02:21 +0100

St John Neville’s Cross in Durham is looking to appoint an experienced children and youth worker.

According to the job description, applicants should be passionate about seeing young people come to faith in Christ and grow towards maturity: spiritually, personally and socially.

The post, it claims, calls for “drive, enthusiasm and the ability to encourage and co-ordinate others”. The post holder will also be given responsibility for the development, leadership and supervision of a range of projects involving children, youth and adult volunteers.

The hours of work are 15 hours a week and the distribution of these hours will be flexible, but will usually include one or two evenings a week, Sunday mornings and occasional weekends. The salary is approximately £8,500 a year.

“St John’s community passionately believes that working with children and youth is a vital and integral part of our mission,” says the job advert.

“St John’s is known locally for its active involvement in children’s and youth work both on Sunday mornings and during the week.

“Whilst there are keen volunteers it has been decided that the addition of a part-time children/youth worker/co-ordinator would significantly enhance our mission, building on the excellent input from our leaders and volunteers in children and youth work.”

Let’s get quizzical, urges Christian Aid

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 14:02:38 +0100

Christian Aid is holding its annual Quizaid fundraiser on September 10-16 and is looking for volunteers to get involved.

Thousands of people across the country will host a quiz this week to raise money for the charity. Volunteers can get quizzical at work, in their own home or even down the pub.

Fundraising packs are free to download and these include an easy to follow guide, posters and a template press release to let everyone know about your Quizaid.

Click here to find out more and to download your pack today.

Special Sorted discount for Jeff Lucas & Adrian Plass Tour

Sun, 09 Sep 2012 07:22:44 +0100

Following on from the success of their first book together, Seriously Funny, and in celebration of the launch of their follow-up book, Jeff Lucas & Adrian Plass' Seriously Funny Tour offers an evening of vibrant conversation with the two authors and music from Nicki Rogers.

There will be laughter, tears and some jolly good thoughtprovoking stuff - it’s an evening that is not to be missed.

Go to www.seriouslyfunny.org/tickets, select the evening of your choice, and use promotional code SORTED for a £2 discount. Booking fees apply.

Cream tea event to mark five great years at the2:67project

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 16:12:23 +0100

A special cream tea event, which is open to all, will be held on September 16 to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the2:67project.

The event will take place at Forest Town Church in St Albans, and will be led by the charity’s director, Mike Palin.

"In September, the267project will begin its sixth year as a charity and as we do so we want to look back, give thanks and celebrate God's abundant blessing to us over the first five years,” says Mike.

“Please do come and join us and hear all about what God has been doing with us."

Mike, a committed Christian with a passion to see God change the lives of young people, has been a full-time youth and children’s worker for more than 15 years.

Inspired by Colossians 2:6-7, the charity offers advice, support, encouragement, resources and training in all areas of youth and children’s work.

Stuart Pendred performs Arias at the Abbey in aid of BCRT

Mon, 03 Sep 2012 14:05:09 +0100

Sorted favourite Stuart Pendred is one of several prestigious soloists to appear at Arias at the Abbey.

The event, which takes place at Dorchester Abbey on October 13, will also feature performances from Jeremy Finch, Kylie Watt and Hannah Pedley alongisde the Oxford Chamber Orchestra and the award-winning Wallingford Parish Church Choir.

Renditions of “Nessun Dorma”, “The Flower Duet”, “Toreador Song” and the “Pearl Fishers' Duet” are just a small selection of the classical hits that will be performed at the event.

Arias at the Abbey is being held to raise awareness pf and funds for the Bone Cancer Research Trust in memory of Alex Lewis, brother of one of the key members of the Wallingford Parish Church Choir and Andy Greig, a dear friend of Stuart Pendred.

For ticket inquiries, email ariasattheabbey@gmail.com or call 01491 825 680.

Mercy Ships calls for London Marathon volunteers

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:24:10 +0100

Mercy Ships UK has guaranteed places for the Virgin London Marathon on 21st April 2013.

It is encouraging people to join the team and raise money to help fund its hospital ship while “having an experience of a lifetime with thousands of other runners”.

“Our marathon runners are helping us to transform the lives of the world’s forgotten poor. One by one.

You could be part of it!” said the charity in a statement.

“To increase your chances of securing a place we would ask you to apply for both a Mercy Ships UK place and for a public ballot place.

“A special welcome to our Mercy Ships 2013 Marathon Team is guaranteed, and you will be given all the support you need to prepare for the big day and raise much needed funds to help some of the world’s most vulnerable people.”

Click here for more information.

Mercy Ships provides free surgery and medical care to people across the globe. It partners with local communities to improve healthcare, offering training and advice, materials and hands-on assistance.

Marriage curbs alcohol consumption in men, claims new study

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:13:11 +0100

New research suggests that while long-term marriage is associated with a slightly higher level of alcohol use among women, the institution does appear to curb men's drinking.

The study, led by the University of Cincinnati (UC), was presented at the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Sociological Association in Denver on August 17-20.

According to the survey, married men consume fewer alcoholic drinks than single, divorced, and widowed men. The study also found that men are more likely than women to turn to drink after a divorce.

In each marital status category, men consumed a greater number of drinks, on average, than women. Across every marital status category, a higher proportion of men than women also reported having at least one alcohol-related problem.

Men who were recently divorced consume significantly more alcohol on average than men in long-term marriages.

Rob Parsons and Mark Chester to speak at Playtime conference

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 09:35:15 +0100

Once again, Care for the Family will run its annual Playtime conference in October to encourage church-based parent and toddler group leaders in the work they do.

More than half of all pre-schoolers attend a church-based toddler group at some stage and the Playtime initiative is the UK’s largest provider of support and advice for these toddler groups.

It currently supports 5,000 group leaders throughout the UK, most of whom give their time voluntarily to run groups in their communities. It is estimated that a quarter of a million families are currently helped by its resources.

“Parent and toddler groups have a huge impact in communities the length and breadth of Britain which is often underestimated,” says Helen Lock, Care for the Family’s Playtime co-ordinator.

“Many parents can often feel isolated within their own communities, these groups offer them the chance to get out and meet people while their children have some fun in a safe learning environment. For parents adjusting to life with young children, toddler groups can literally be a lifeline.”

This year’s conference will focus on the value of effective storytelling, as well as teaching leaders how to promote their own groups within the community, showcasing practical plans that have been road-tested by other leaders and discussing how to make a difference.

Guest speakers will include bestselling author and Care for the Family founder Rob Parsons, and Mark Chester, founder of Who Let the Dads Out? toddler sessions for dads and male carers.

“The aim of the conference is to equip leaders to be even more effective in encouraging parents and building relationships in order to give children a great start in life,” Ms Lock said.

The Playtime conference will be held on October 6 at the Aviator Hotel in Northamptonshire. For more information or to book your place, call 029 2081 0800 or visit www.careforthefamily.org.uk/playtime.

Norfolk church’s fundraising plans approach fruition

Sat, 18 Aug 2012 10:32:34 +0100

Members of St Gervase and St Protase Church in Little Plumstead, Norfolk, have raised around £160,000 over the last five years. The congregation is just £40,000 or so short of their £204,000 target.

The money will be used to breathe new life into the 1,000-year-old Norfolk church with a modern extension. The extra space will allow them to incorporate toilet and kitchen facilities and a large community hall space.

Reverend Christine Garrod told the Norwich Evening News: “We also have the Church of England primary school nearby and once we have got the new facilities, they can use the church more regularly and come in for projects or history and design lessons.

“There are a lot of new families in the village but no facilities, so we will have room here at the church available for community use and clubs.”