World
Radical Islam is a threat to Christian democracy. It must be defeated
The conflict in Israel and Gaza is much bigger than the Middle East, says Bishop Joseph D’Souza. Peace requires Western democracies to stand up to extremists, not appease them
Israel-Gaza war: Don't ignore what the Bible actually says
Does the Bible suggest that God will bring the Jewish people back to the land?
Israel and Gaza: A prayer for peace
As the Israel-Hamas conflict continues to rage, Jerusalem-based church leader Rev Aaron Eime invites you to join him in prayer for the protection of innocent Israelis and Palestinians, and that the Prince of Peace would have his way in the Holy Land this Christmas
Why the Church in Bethlehem has cancelled Christmas
The authorities in Bethlehem have decided not to display their annual nativity scene or Christmas tree in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. But is this a missed opportunity to build a bridge between the two sides?
Never again is now
David Hoffbrand explains why he attended a recent Pro-Israel rally outside Downing Street, and why he believes all Christians should be standing against antisemitism
Madman or martyr? The Mission is an unsettling documentary about a murdered evangelist
In 2018, the death of missionary John Allen Chau shocked the world. Now, a new documentary looks at what inspired a young American to reach a remote people group with the gospel. It asks some important questions, says Tim Bechervaise, but have they really understood the Christian call to share the good news?
What the Bible says about the Israel-Gaza war
In a recent speech, Benjamin Netanyahu invoked the words of Ecclesiastes, "There's a time for war" as justification for Israel's military operation in Gaza. But is this an appropriate use of scripture? It's complicated, says Rev Mark Woods
Is the Prince of Persia causing chaos in Gaza?
Christians around the world are praying fervently for peace in the Middle East, yet the fighting continues. Are our prayers being hindered? A peculiar story from the Old Testament may help us understand what’s going on, says David Instone-Brewer
From Islam to Atheism to Christianity - the unlikely conversion of Ayaan Hirsi Ali
Ayaan Hirsi Ali's astonishing announcement that she has become a Christian, is almost as surprising as if Richard Dawkins had entered the priesthood, says Andy Bannister
As a Palestinian Christian, I still believe in Jesus’ call to peacemaking
Israel is continuing its military operation in Gaza, with the stated aim of eradicating Hamas. But you can't destroy an ideology with bombs, says Lara, a Palestinian Christian. Jesus offers us a better way
As a Christian, I believe a Gaza-Israel ceasefire is needed
Symon Hill explains why he’s joining calls for a ceasefire
Is rediscovering Christian values the key to fixing society?
A new coalition of influencers, including Jordan Peterson, Miriam Cates MP and Baroness Stroud, believe that in order to solve the West’s problems, we must return to our Judeo-Christian foundations. Heather Tomlinson reports from the inaugural ARC conference
Beyond Utopia: Watch how a pastor is helping people escape from North Korea
A new documentary tells the story of Pastor Kim, who is helping North Koreans escape the totalitarian dictatorship. Megan Titley went to see it
Antisemitism is hitting the streets of London. Christians must be vocal in their opposition
Antisemitic slogans and declarations of support for Hamas could be seen on the streets of London this past Saturday. Christian Concern's Tim Dieppe says Christians must respond by standing in solidarity with Jewish people
Pete Greig: I sense a new move of God in Australia
In our aggressively secular age, there are many reasons to believe the Church is on the back-foot, but when Pete Greig recently visited Melbourne to help launch 24-7 Prayer Australia, he sensed God on the move in a fresh way
‘I prayed for ravers in Mallorca to give their lives to Jesus – this is what happened’
When 19-year-old Nathan Kosciecha travelled to Mallorca one summer, it wasn’t for the sex, drugs and alcohol, but rather to see lives transformed by Christ. In an area ruled by darkness, he witnessed Jesus’ power as chains of sin were broken
The fastest growing churches in the UK are…
New research from the Bible Society has revealed the fastest growing segment of the UK Church
Israel is the Church’s blindspot
Any serious intercessor understands the importance of praying for Israel, yet most of the Church remains blind to the reality of God’s ongoing plan for the Jews, says Steve Maltz
Stories from Gaza: ‘Our only hope is in God for a miracle’
Just two weeks ago, Rt Rev Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich, visited the Christian-run Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza, where hundreds of Palestinians were last night killed in an explosion. As tensions in the region mount, he says the innocent should not pay for the crimes of Hamas
Should Christians take sides when praying for Israel and Gaza?
It’s easy to say ‘we should pray’. But in analysing prayers and statements from churches across the globe, Tim Wyatt uncovers some very different approaches to the conflict
I’ve witnessed conflicts between Israel and Gaza before. This is different
Speaking from Jerusalem, the Methodist minister Rev David Hardman says Christians are called to follow the Prince of Peace
Israel must be defended. So too must innocent Palestinians
Following Hamas’ brutal terror attacks, George Pitcher understands the pledges from Western leaders to “stand with Israel”. But he wonders if such statements of support are incomplete
The media hasn’t explained what motivates Hamas. The answer is religion
It’s widely known that Hamas have been designated a terrorist organisation by the UK and US governments. But what’s their motivation? Why do they target innocent people? Dr James Patrick says the answer can be found in Hamas’ own statements
What Christians need to know about antisemitism in Britain
Imagine having armed guards at Sunday services, or keeping the location of your church coffee morning a secret for fear of abuse or violent attack. It may seem unimaginable, but this is the reality for many Jews in the UK. Now, more than ever, Christians must show solidarity, says James Roberts
We cannot evangelise in Liverpool the way we do in Lagos
The re-evangelisation of Europe will require white and minority ethnic Christians to work together, says Harvey Kwiyani. Both groups have much to learn from the other, he says. Only then will revival come to our shores
Loren Cunningham (1935-2023): The YWAM founder took Christ to the nations
Loren Cunningham, founder of Youth With a Mission (YWAM) has died, aged 88. Lynn Green pays tribute to the man who “deregulated mission”, founding a global movement that is active in over 200 countries worldwide
What’s happening in Israel and Gaza, and how should Christians pray?
The murder and kidnappings of civilians by the terrorist group Hamas have been described as “Israel’s 9/11”. Journalist Gavin Drake is a frequent visitor to Israel and Gaza. He explains what has taken place, what might happen next, and how Christians should be praying
When Christians were spat on, Israel took swift action. If only other Middle Eastern nations cared as much
The arrests of five Orthodox Jews accused of spitting at Christian worshippers in the Old City of Jerusalem, demonstrates that Israel takes religious freedom seriously, says Rev Johnnie Moore
Is the Pope in favour of blessing same-sex unions?
LGBT Catholics have welcomed a new statement from Pope Francis, which has been interpreted as opening the door to blessing same-sex relationships
If Prison Walls Could Speak: The astounding play that brings persecution to life
If Prison Walls Could Speak portrays the true story of Petr Jasek, who was imprisoned for this faith in Sudan. It’s a one-man tour de force, and a harrowing story told in an extraordinary way, says our reviewer
‘I am because we are’ - what Christians can learn from the African concept of ‘ubuntu’
The theme of this World Quaker Day is the little-known African word ‘ubuntu’. In an increasingly divided world, understanding what unites us as Christians is vital, says Tim Gee
Is it possible to end poverty?
After decades of progress in the fight against extreme poverty, experts are now warning the United Nations will miss its goal of ending poverty by 2030. Tim Wyatt speaks to practitioners and theologians to find out what’s going wrong, and what Jesus meant when he said, “the poor you will always have with you.”
Should Christians in the UK be worried about the prosperity gospel?
Over half of American churchgoers now believe God will bless them if they give more. Is the increase due to more people getting their teaching via the internet and TV? And if so, what could it mean for orthodox Christian beliefs in the UK? Peter Ould interrogates the data and makes a plea for better British surveys
Oppenheimer and the untold story of the destruction of the Japanese Church
When American aviators used the cathedral in Nagasaki to guide the dropping of the atomic bomb that ended the second world war, they wiped out a Christian community that had survived hundreds of years of persecution. This is the untold story of Oppenheimer, says Professor Nick Megoran
Western Christians must stop talking about ‘unreached people groups’. Your problem is closer to home
Western mission agencies who use old language, like “conversion” or “unreached people groups” are putting lives at risk, says Bishop Joseph D’Souza. The majority world does need the gospel, he says, but so does the UK, Europe and the US
Explained: Why was Brian Houston taken to court and why did he quit Hillsong?
Brian Houston has been cleared over charges arising from his decision not to report his paedophile father to police. But the former Hillsong leader is no longer part of the global church network he built. Tim Wyatt has the full story
Churches are burning in Pakistan as Christians face extreme persecution
In the last 30 years, the number of countries where Christians face extreme levels of persecution has almost doubled. As the United Nations marks the international day for commemorating victims of religious persecution, Daniel McIlhiney explains what has been happening in Pakistan, and how Christians can pray
Sad, but not sorry: 5 lessons to learn from the Brian Houston trial
Hillsong Church founder Brian Houston has been acquitted of concealing the sexual abuse his father committed against a young male in the 1970s. While Houston was found ‘not guilty’ of the charge, he nevertheless has made mistakes which today’s church leaders should learn from, says Justin Humphreys
AI can write a great sermon. But should you use it?
As a church in Germany engineers an entire service run by AI, Tim Wyatt speaks to experts in technology and ethics to find out whether Christians should be using tools such as ChatGPT within their ministry
Thank God for immigration. It’s reviving our dead churches
Many churches in urban areas are experiencing huge growth. As the already critically-acclaimed book This is Not America argues, we’ve immigrant Christians and their children to thank for holding back the tide of secularism in the UK, says Kayode Adeniran
The Secrets of Hillsong
The latest TV docuseries to scrutinise Hillsong’s failings is the most thorough and fairest yet. As Carl Lentz gives his first interview since being fired from the megachurch, Sam Hailes argues that we can’t blame the media for wanting to shine a light on abuse and moral failings in the Church. It’s time to learn the lessons
I used to think adventure tourism was immoral. Now I’m not so sure
What are Christians to make of the billionaires who take trips into space, or to the bottom of the ocean? Chine McDonald gives her view
The Pope is right. There are more Christian martyrs today than ever
Pope Francis has set up a new commission to identify Christians of all denominations who have been murdered for following Jesus this century. But is it really more dangerous to be a Christian today than in the days of the early Church?
Explained: Is church attendance falling in Europe?
More than half a million baptised Catholics left the church in Germany last year, according to recently released figures. But what’s the general state of faith across mainland Europe? Declan McSweeney reports
From the worst slum to glorious salvation
Through the generosity of a teenager thousands of miles away, Dr Richmond Wandera was lifted out of extreme poverty. He’s now a church leader committed to leading his fellow Ugandans away from the prosperity gospel and toward biblical truth
Reverse mission: Why African evangelists are blessing Europe
Historically, missionaries were sent out from Europe into the rest of the world. But as Christianity continues to decline in the West, many Christians from the Global South now see us as the mission field. Rev Dr Israel Olofinjana explains
Who is my neighbour? 6 places where climate change is wreaking havoc
If we are truly part of a global family of faith, we should be anguished that our brothers and sisters around the world are suffering the impacts of climate breakdown, says Holly Anna Petersen. She shares some of their stories
Al-Qaeda is back in Afghanistan. It is a threat to Christians around the world
When US and UK troops withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban promised that foreign terrorists would never again find a home in the country. Now a new UN report says al-Qaeda is alive and well in Afghanistan once more. Here’s what it means for Christians there and around the world
Surveillance state: How digital tools are being used to persecute Christians
With the rise of advanced technologies, the ways of suppressing religious freedom are increasing exponentially. From facial recognition software to firewalls, Tim Wyatt spotlights the new ways repressive regimes are targeting Christians
Holy Russia, Holy War?
The Ukraine war is not only a geopolitical war with Russia, but actually a war within Orthodoxy itself. So argues Katherine Kelaidis in her new book Holy Russia? Holy War? Her rather fatalistic assessment of the situation is tinged with hope for change, says Paul Valler
Why are hundreds of churches being destroyed in Manipur, India?
At least 64 Christians have been killed, thousands displaced and entire villages razed to the ground in Manipur. While reports from the region vary, Ben Cohen from Open Doors says the extent of the violence has dramatically increased in recent weeks. He unpacks the factors driving it
‘Civil war displaced our people. But even in the wilderness, God is there’
When civil war ravaged South Sudan and displaced his community, Rt Rev Joseph Aba, Bishop of Liwolo, followed his people into exile. He says God is powerfully at work in the Ugandan refugee camp in which he now ministers
War in Sudan puts Christians in mortal danger. We must pray
Fierce fighting has rocked Sudan in recent weeks as two rival factions vie for control. Caroline Duffield explains what is happening inside the tenth most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian, and how we can pray for those still trapped there
The Archbishop of Canterbury must repent for abandoning biblical truth on sex
In his opening address to the Global Anglican Futures Conference (GAFCON), Most Rev Foley Beach had stern words for the leader of the Church of England. Here’s his speech in full
George Verwer: 'My first message isn't missions. It's Jesus'
George Verwer travelled the world and the organisation he founded is still touching hundreds of thousands of lives. But when Premier Christianity caught up with him, the evangelist revealed that despite his passion for mission, he still struggles with doubt
George Verwer (1938-2023): The trailblazing evangelist reached the world for Christ
The founder and former director of the global Christian mission agency, Operation Mobilisation died last night surrounded by his family at his home near London. He was 84. Bishop Joseph D’Souza remembers him
10 years of Pope Francis: What ‘the people’s pope’ is getting right, and where he’s going wrong
The head of the 1.3 billion-strong Catholic Church recently celebrated ten years of leadership, but what difference has a new approach from the ’Bishop of Rome’ really made? Tim Wyatt reports
'War made me an orphan and I tried to end my life. But God saved me'
Bernard Suwa grew up as a refugee during Sudan’s civil war. By his 16th birthday he was a homeless orphan contemplating suicide, but God had other plans. Today, Rev Suwa leads Grace Community Church in Juba supporting missionaries who are re-building his beloved country
Pilgrimage: The BBC series that puts faith front and centre
As the popular series returns to our screens, Max Avard reviews the first episode of Pilgrimage and finds that kindness, not drama and controversy, makes for reality TV gold.
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‘God used furlough to reignite my dream’
When Covid-19 shattered the aviation industry, easyJet engineer Mark Draper was put on furlough. It was the start of a journey that would lead his family halfway across the globe
Jesus would fight the criminalisation of LGBT people and so should we
Ugandan MPs have recently passed a bill that could result in life imprisonment, or even the death penalty, for homosexual acts. Here’s why all Christians should fight against it, regardless of their views on same-sex relationships
Jesus Revolution: the 60s hippies who changed the world
Jesus Revolution has taken $40m at the box office, making it highest-grossing film released by the studio Lionsgate since 2019. Andrew Whitman traces the history that inspired the movie
Beyond Asbury: 6 other places where revival is happening now
Our global God is always on the move, says Jason Mandryk. To take just one example, there is good reason to think there are more than 1 million believers in the Islamic Republic of Iran, he says. And you can be certain that none of them are nominal!
Christ offers us unconditional unity. Global South bishops are wrong to split from the Anglican Communion
The Church should not be an echo chamber, says George Pitcher. Splitting over disagreements about same-sex marriage is not what Jesus modelled
'Magisteria' expertly demolishes lazy myths about science and religion
Many, but perhaps not all of us, will be familiar with the 1957 big-screen portrayal of Reginald Rose’s legendary drama Twelve Angry Men.
A Church at war: Russian and Ukrainian churches are ignoring Christ’s prayer for unity
As the world marks 12 months of the war in Ukraine, Professor Nick Megoran discusses the impact of conflict on the Church
Ukraine: Stories of hope amid heartache
This week marks one year since Russia triggered the largest armed conflict in Europe since 1945. As the war continues, Emma Fowle takes a look at the people and places still affected, and how the Church is helping
Craig Greenfield moved his family to a Cambodian slum. But don’t call him a missionary
From living in open community with drug addicts to raising his family in a Cambodian slum, Craig Greenfield has spent decades living in some of the poorest places on earth. It has caused him to wrestle with weighty issues around money, mission and multiculturalism
Christian Atsu (1992-2023): ‘A devoted follower of Jesus’
Ex-premiership footballer, Christian Atsu, played for Chelsea and Newcastle before signing for Turkish club, Hatayspor, last year. He was tragically killed in the recent earthquake in Turkey. Hillsong Newcastle pastor, Jonny Ferguson plays tribute to the family man who always put God, and others, first
Explained: What is the Shroud of Turin and is it evidence of Jesus’ resurrection?
Controversy has swirled around this claimed burial cloth of Christ ever since its discovery. If the Shroud is genuine, its arguably the most significant relic in existence
My visit to South Sudan with the Pope and Archbishop was an historic moment
Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, Moderator of the Church of Scotland, joined Pope Francis and the Archbishop of Canterbury for a ‘pilgrimage of peace’ to the world’s youngest country. Here’s why he’s believing for better for South Sudan
The little known story of Bob Marley's conversion to Christianity
The reggae superstar and populariser of Rastafarianism became a Christian shortly before his death in 1981. Tony Cummings reports
‘We held hands and started praying’: Teen turns to God as earthquake strikes
The death toll continues to climb after two major earthquakes devastated areas of Turkey and Syria. Christians in the area are sheltering in churches and asking for prayer for those still trapped in the rubble
Yes I’m a Christian. But I’m grieving the suicide attack on a Pakistani mosque
The New Testament commands us to “mourn with those who mourn”, says religious freedom advocate Rev Johnnie Moore.
200 children are missing in Britain. Where is the Christian outrage?
As the scandal of child asylum seekers disappearing from UK hotels continues to unfold, Tim Farron says Jesus doesn’t care where the missing children are from. He’s more bothered that we don’t seem to care
Why the rise of Christian Nationalism around the world is deeply concerning
The rise of the religious far right poses a serious threat to democracy around the world, says Martyn Whittock. Will conservative Christians take heed?
I escaped from North Korea. Here's why it's still the most dangerous place in the world to be a Christian
Three decades after charity Open Doors began monitoring Christian persecution around the world, North Korea is more dangerous than ever for followers of Jesus. Timothy Cho, who escaped the regime, explains why that is, and why we should still be hopeful for change
The shocking truth about Christianity and the Holocaust
On Holocaust Memorial Day, Simon Ponsonby exposes the ‘Christian’ roots of the worst massacre in modern history
‘I was 8 years old when God gave me a prophetic vision. People tried to silence me, but God was faithful’
Although she grew up in a Christian home, it took a tragedy to drive Rita Vincent back into the arms of God. Through her early life in Ghana, via Nigeria to London, she’s learned that God has always been there, and his timing is perfect
Christians rioting in Brazil are undermining democracy in the name of Jesus
The recent riots inside Brazil’s governmental buildings has uncomfortable echoes of the storming of Capitol Hill, and in both cases Christians played a central role, says Martyn Whittock
Pelé (1940-2022): ‘God gave me the gift of knowing how to play football’
Earlier this week, thousands of Brazilians lined the streets for the funeral of footballing legend, Pelé. His traditional Catholic send-off reflected a life of faith in God, if not a life lived perfectly, says Emma Fowle
‘Father, into your hands we commend Pope Benedict’s spirit’ - Read Pope Francis’s funeral homily
Pope Francis paid tribute to the life and service of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. Read the text in full here
Faithful disobedience - Wang Yi and others
Faithful Disobedience is a series of written accounts from leaders inside the Chinese House Church Movement. It includes testimonies from six prominent Chinese voices, most notably the pastor of Early Rain Covenant Church, Wang Yi, who was sentenced to nine years in prison, charged with “inciting to subvert state power”.
Pope Benedict XVI (1927-2022): ‘God’s Rottweiler’ was an outstanding theologian
Catherine Pepinster reports on the varied life and ministry of the late pope, who died this morning
More than a scholar, Pope Benedict XVI was a kind man who shaped my life
Pope Benedict XVI has died at the age of 95. The leader of Catholics in England and Wales, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, pays tribute to him
As another Christmas arrives, Hindu extremists are again targeting Indian Christians
World Vision India is just one of many charities to have its license to receive foreign funds suspended by the Hindu-led government. It’s another clear sign of Christian persecution, says Bishop Joseph D’Souza. What happened to peace on earth and goodwill to all people?
2022’s biggest Christian news stories
As the year draws to a close, Tim Wyatt looks at the most significant stories for the UK Church and beyond
Editor’s picks: 15 best features from 2022
Premier Christianity has been at the forefront of unpacking all the big stories of 2022 from a distinctly Christian perspective. Here’s a round-up of our favourite long-reads the year
You should spend time with a persecuted pastor this Advent
Hannah Nation has worked with persecuted Chinese house church leaders on a new manifesto entitled Faithful Disobedience. Their moving stories are a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas, she says
Human rights campaigners are ignoring the plight of persecuted Christians in Qatar
Human rights issues in Qatar have been making front page news throughout the World Cup, but you will struggle to find a secular human rights organisation speaking up for freedom of religion. While the rights of some minorities are championed, Christians are simply ignored, says Dr Martin Parsons
3 reasons why I’m still watching Qatar’s controversial World Cup
We live in a world of imperfection and moral murkiness, says Tim Bechervaise. But Christians can watch and enjoy the World Cup while acknowledging the dark shadow that hangs over the tournament. Here’s three reasons why he’s not joining the boycott
God and suffering: My quest for answers after the Boxing Day Tsunami
When almost a quarter of a million people died in the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, it set Dominican friar-turned journalist, Mark Dowd, on a journey to find out why God didn’t stop the suffering
Jesus was the king of silent protest. He’d be proud of the German football players
As Germany posed for a team photo, they placed their hands over their mouth in protest against FIFA’s sanctions of the One Love armband. George Pitcher ponders the power of silent protest
As a Christian, I’m boycotting the Qatar World Cup. Here’s why
Despite being a huge fan of the beautiful game, for the first time in his life David Landrum is determined not to watch the World Cup. Here’s why he’s switching off
Walking away from our hardline commitments to defence spending is unholy. Ukraine needs us
If supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression is just, Christians must also back an adequately-funded military, argues George Pitcher.
Indian Sikhs are miraculously encountering Jesus - and there’s nothing authorities can do to stop it
Despite persecution by extremist Hindu factions, there is a revival happening among India’s Sikh community in the Punjab that is now attracting the attention of the national media. You can’t stop the work of the Holy Spirit says Bishop Joseph D’Souza
Jair Bolsonaro: How the ‘Trump of the Tropics’ won the backing of evangelical voters
As Jair Bolsonaro concedes defeat in Brazil's presidential election, we look at the controversial politician’s rise to prominence, and the Catholic faith that drives him
Iran's women are right to tell Islamic leaders that religion cannot supersede their human rights
In a complex and diverse world, Bishop Joseph D’Souza makes a case for tolerance, understanding and freedom of religious expression for all
Don’t be put off by the low budget. This film about radical Bible translator John Wycliffe deserves to be watched
A new biopic of John Wycliffe promises to bring the viewer “face to face with a man of true genius”. As Morningstar embarks on a premiere screening tour across the UK, Eddie Arthur says we all owe a lot to this radical translator
Christians are being attacked in India – and this is why
This week the UK celebrated its first Hindu prime minister, but nearly 5,000 miles away in India, Christians are being attacked and killed for their faith.
Church leaders are silent on Iran’s violent misogyny. Why aren’t we outraged?
In protesting against the death of Mahsa Amini, women and girls in Iran are showing breathtaking courage. So why have we in the West been so lukewarm in our condemnation of Iranian violence against women, asks George Pitcher?
Why are church leaders opposing plans to move the British embassy to Jerusalem?
A swathe of church leaders including the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin are concerned about Liz Truss’ plans to move the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Here’s what’s going on
Abducted, married and forced to convert to Islam - this human rights atrocity must be stopped
Despite child marriage being illegal in Pakistan, more than 1,000 girls are kidnapped, married to much older men and forced to become Muslims every year.
From Hillsong to Mars Hill: there is a leadership crisis in the Church. Here’s how to fix it
Barely a month goes by without another controversy involving a prominent Christian leader in the West. The lack of depth and training among our leaders is a serious problem, says Simon Foulds
Christians, climate change is not an environmental campaign – it’s a racial justice issue
Instead of taking responsibility for clearing up our climate mess, Britons are pushing that burden onto Black and Brown people in the poorest communities around the world, says Holly-Anna Petersen
Criminal Christianity? What this Bible smuggler taught me about breaking the law
The first Christians told the authorities, “We must obey God rather than human beings!” It’s a principle Brother Andrew lived out, says Dr David Landrum
Giorgia Meloni: Who is the new Italian prime minister invoking the name of God?
Giorgia Meloni is set to become Italy’s first female prime minister, but don’t be fooled by her talk of God, says Christopher Lamb
The Pope’s apology for past sins in the name of ‘mission’ was a good start. But evangelicals need to change too
Christians need to understand that sloganeering such as “reaching unreached people groups” is deeply problematic, says Bishop Joseph D’Souza
10 inspirational quotes from Mother Teresa
Today marks a quarter of a century since Saint Teresa of Kolkata died. As the world continues to celebrate her life and legacy, we present ten inspirational and challenging quotes from Mother Teresa
Mikhail Gorbachev: The man who unintentionally fought for religious freedom
Historian Martyn Whittock reflects on how Mikhail Gorbachev’s desire to reform the Eastern Bloc brought freedom of expression and religion to many
How our church is studying the Bible with Christians in Burundi
A church in Norwich is learning from the experiences of Christians 6,000 miles away, as two congregations come together to study the scriptures over Zoom
3 stories about the global food crisis that keep me up at night
Nearly 30 percent of the world’s population - are food insecure. Here’s how the Church is stepping in to help
‘I was a Muslim consumed by hatred. But now I serve Jesus in Afghanistan’
One year on from the Allied’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, one man tells his remarkable story of finding Jesus among the pain of war, and how he is sharing the hope of Christ with his fellow countrymen
Think blasphemy laws are obsolete here? Think again
Today, the United Nations commemorates victims of religious-based violence. But if we think that blasphemy laws are a thing of the past, the violent stabbing of Salman Rushdie should jolt us from our comfortable trance, says Lois McLatchie
Salman Rushdie's attempted murder is an attack on religious freedom
The stabbing of the author of The Satanic Verses and an old college photo of assassinated Pakistani Prime Minister, Benazir Bhutto, reminds George Pitcher that living self-sacrificially is a key tenet of the Christian faith
Will gay marriage split the Anglican Communion?
Tim Wyatt explains what happened at the much anticipated Lambeth Conference, why it matters, and what the future might hold
‘Life is about to get harder…but God will send renewal’ Mark Sayers on Covid, war and politics
What if in the midst of political instability and rising living costs, God is up to something exciting? That’s the belief of Mark Sayers. Tim Bechervaise caught up with the Aussie church leader, podcaster and writer to find out more
Meet the medics offering hope and healing to Muslims in Jesus’ name
A Christian run hospital in Cameroon is offering both medical and miraculous solutions to the Fulani tribe. Charles Gardner reports
Persecution of Christians in Nigeria is driven by Islamism, not climate change
The UK government has attributed the massacre of Christians to politics, banditry, farming disputes and even climate change.
William Adoasi: The faith of the entrepreneur who is making millions and funding education in Africa
The British-Ghanaian entrepreneur explains how his faith inspired him to build a £1m watch company
‘The only thing that I could do was to pray’: The faith behind the Hollywood film Thirteen Lives
As Ron Howard’s film about the Thai football team trapped in a cave is released in the UK, one of the children tells the story of his faith and the future that followed his miraculous rescue
Freedom of religion is a fundamental human right. It should be taught in schools
Last week the UK hosted the International Ministerial Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief in London. Mervyn Thomas explains what took place, and why it matters
Pregnancy centres are burning. Why is no one doing anything?
Since the leak of the ruling that would eventually overturn Roe v Wade, over 70 pro-life organisations across the US have been attacked - the most severe of which was the firebombing of CompassCare Pregnancy Services in Buffalo, New York. As yet, no arrests have been made. Rev Jim Harden, CompassCare’s CEO says enough is enough
Mpho Tutu van Furth: Apartheid, my famous father and gay marriage
The daughter of the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu explains how her gay marriage led to a break with South Africa’s Anglican Church
‘Ukraine needs half a million Bibles’ - how demand for God’s word has soared amid war
Many people in Ukraine are hungry for God’s word – but they don’t want to read it in Russian. Now, a new Ukrainian language version is reaching more people than ever
Lord have mercy on the Texas migrants
53 migrants travelling in the back of a lorry have lost their lives in what has been described as the deadliest human trafficking incident in US history.
Britain’s asylum resettlement plan is more colonial than reformative
Britain cannot ignore its Christian roots. It must handle the complex problem of illegal immigration in a more humane way, argues Bishop Joseph D’Souza
I’m a pro-life Christian, but here’s why I’m not rejoicing over Roe v Wade
Not all Christians are overjoyed at last week’s US Supreme Court ruling on abortion. Here’s why Megan Cornwell is still concerned
50 Christians have been murdered during a church service. Nigeria is failing to defeat Islamic extremists
A massacre of 50 people at a Catholic church is the latest in a string of attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
Learning from a lifetime of service: The Queen and Brother Andrew
It has been 70 years since The Queen said “yes” to a life of service. That same year, an unknown Dutchman did the same. Both Elizabeth II and Brother Andrew have a lot to teach us says Eddie Lyle
How Iraq’s Christians are rebuilding their ancient churches
When Islamic State (IS) marched into the Nineveh region of northern Iraq in 2014 and declared it a caliphate under sharia law, it destroyed one of the oldest communities of Christians in the world. Jihadists desecrated ancient churches and 50,000 Christians fled. After its capital Mosul was liberated in 2017, Al-Bishara Church was the first to reopen. Five years on, local journalists Stella Martany and Meethak Al-khatib visited on Easter Sunday to speak to the Christians tentatively reassembling their lives.
Using the Bible to sell guns is never OK
When the gun company who made the weapon used to kill 21 people in a Texas school uses scripture to advertise their weapons, it’s time for Christians to speak up, says Emma Fowle
When are we going to do something? Why America needs Christians to stand up for gun law reform
The Uvalde school massacre is the second mass shooting in America in less than two weeks. It’s time Christians recognised that the Second Amendment is not inerrant, says Rev Peter Cook. The sensible regulation of weapons is urgently needed
Political landscapes change. Only Jesus has authority that lasts forever
Australia’s recent election results are a good reminder that whatever side we’re on, Christians must respect authority while working for the common good and demanding high standards from those in leadership
Why peacemakers in the Holy Land are called to disturb the peace
A distruption of the status quo may be required in order to allow real peace to prevail, says Anita Delhass
How to fix a problem like Hillsong
The global megachurch has been engulfed by multiple scandals in recent months. As allegations of cover-ups, affairs and inappropriate behaviour do further damage to Hillsong’s reputation, Tim Wyatt asks whether this pre-eminent Christian brand can weather the storm
Rowan Williams is wrong. Kirill should not be kicked out of the World Council of Churches
While the Russian Orthodox Church’s endorsement of the invasion of Ukraine is abhorrent, keeping communication open has a better chance of changing hearts and minds
End times theology: Why Russia's invasion of Ukraine is significant
The spirit of antichrist is present in much of the world, including Russia, says theologian and end times teacher John Hosier. He explains why world events are a challenge to church leaders to once again start preaching about the second coming of Christ
‘The Church is working as Christ intended’ Diary of a Christian aid worker on the Ukrainian border
Gwyn Williams has just returned from the Ukrainian-Romanian border. There, he saw the despair of people traumatised by loss, and experienced the joy of seeing the Church work together to show Christ’s love.
I’m an Irish Protestant who just met the Pope. But I promise I’m not a heretic!
It was an honour to be invited into the Pope’s presence, writes Presbyterian minister Steve Stockman
‘God sent me to a war zone’
When the Soviet Union collapsed and Chechnya descended into war, Paula O’Keefe found herself bringing the gospel to a people scarred by conflict and hungry for God
Archbishop Angaelos: ‘The world needs the Church more than ever’
The world needs the Church in all its breadth and diversity, says the first-ever Coptic Archbishop of London.
The Ukrainian roots of Britain’s favourite hymn, ‘How great thou art’
One of the most popular hymns of all time, ‘How great thou art’ was inspired by a song that missionary Stuart Hine first heard in the Ukrainian mountains.
I beat my anxiety by going on mission
18 year-old Jiyun Baek became a Christian during lockdown and shortly afterwards set off on a short term mission trip. She explains how stepping out of her comfort zone to serve on board Logos Hope, has helped calm her anxiety
I was once a refugee. Justin Welby was right to criticise plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda
It’s not the job of the Church to solve the issues surrounding immigration, but it is their job to offer moral guidance, says Bishop Guli Francis-Dehqani
‘Meeting the practical needs of Ukrainians is far easier than healing their emotional scars’
Over two million Ukranians have now crossed into neighbouring Poland. Christians there are meeting the practical needs of refugees and holding out hope to those fleeing war
5 ways to defeat Putin’s plans without leaving your laptop
We are increasingly living in a ‘splinternet’, where citizens in countries like Russia, China and Iran are fed a completely different reality to the one we are presented with. Here’s how Christians can make a difference
Our bad stewardship of the earth was threatening food supply long before the war in Ukraine
It isn’t just the war in Ukraine that is threatening our food supply and pushing up prices. God has given us a mandate to steward the earth well and it’s more important than ever that we look after it, says Tim Farron MP
This Christian teaching suggests it's ethical for Ukraine to fight (and for us to arm them)
Can Christians ever justify war? Yes, says Prof Nigel Biggar. He explains the just war theory, a doctrine of military ethics, and how it applies to Ukraine, while encouraging us all to keep praying for peace
Supporting Ukrainian refugees is a colossal task, but here’s how our church welcomed a family of 17
Associate pastor Brian Whittaker welcomed 17 Ukrainian refugees to his church on Sunday
Explained: The religious motivations behind Putin’s unholy war
As war rages, Justin Brierley asks Ukrainian Orthodox scholar Father Cyril Hovorun and Catholic journalist Clifford Longley about the religious beliefs motivating Vladimir Putin
As a Christian pacifist I can’t encourage Ukrainians to take up arms. But neither will I condemn them
Christians are called to follow a saviour who exemplified nonviolent defiance, says Symon Hill
Racism at Ukraine’s borders cannot be tolerated
Our silence on racism at the borders gives the impression that some refugee lives are worth more than others, warns the Churches Together General Secretary
‘Everything is destroyed’ 29 days of hell in Ukraine
Masha was forced to flee Borodyanka when her city was destroyed by Russian bombing. She shares her story of the war so far
Some wonder how war could happen in the 21st Century. But God never promised us infinite progress
Jesus warned us that there would be trouble in this fallen world. But we can rejoice in his promise that he will overcome it
Miracles in Ukraine
Astonishing stories of God at work are being shared on social media. Tim Wyatt explains why Christians are being urged to respond with both praise and caution
My schizoaffective disorder means I can’t watch the Ukraine news. Here’s what I am doing instead
Christians should be aware of what is taking place in our world so we can pray. But what should we do when our own mental health makes watching the news impossible? Dr Sharon Hastings shares her story of living with schizoaffective disorder
The Ukraine crisis is bringing churches together in unity. God’s love is on display
As churches come together to bring practical help and pray for Ukraine, it a powerful demonstration of God’s love
Putin and the plank in our eye: repenting of our selective compassion for Ukraine
It’s easy to paint Putin as the epitome of all evil and pray to God for victory, says Jonty Langley, but in doing so, are we forgetting our own nation’s past indiscretions and indulging in the sin of hypocrisy?
As the world celebrates Nazanin’s release, let’s not forget those still in prison
Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe may be a household name, but there are many other prisoners languishing in Iranian jails simply because they follow Jesus. We may not know their names, but we must continue to fight for their freedom
Want to help Ukrainians fleeing war? The last thing they need is your old clothes
A Ukrainian mother, carrying her possessions in three suitcases and trying to manage her children at the same time, will not be stopping at the border to pick up your grandad’s old holey jumper that should have gone to the charity shop 15 years ago.
How many civilians must die before the Russian Orthodox Patriarch intervenes?
It’s not enough to sanction the Russian oligarchs, it’s time to put pressure on Putin’s spiritual oligarch too, says Bishop Joseph D’Souza
Pat Robertson thinks Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a fulfilment of end times prophecy. Is he right?
Some Christians and Jews have viewed recent events as a partial fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy. Evangelical scholar Dr Calvin Smith looks at the biblical evidence
‘I’ve been a church leader in Ukraine for 30 years. I’m not going anywhere’
Wayne Zschech has been a church leader in Ukraine for nearly 30 years. He’s not intending to leave any time soon
‘Stop the war’ Russian Orthodox leader on why hundreds of ‘brave’ priests are joining his campaign
Dr Andrey Kordochkin introduces the open letter which nearly 300 of his fellow Russian Orthodox Priests have signed
The religious dimension of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine explained
Putin is not a madman. He has his reasons, and some of them are religious, explains Martyn Whittock
Why Putin’s war is an attack on Christian values
Putin has gone to war against fundamentally Christian ideals, argues Peter Lynas
Behind the headlines: Inspiring stories of faith in Ukrainian cities under siege
You won't hear these stories anywhere else. But for Christians, they are an encouraging reminder that Ukrainians are people of deep conviction, who are well used to keeping the faith in dark times
Can social media win the battle against Russia’s ‘dezinformatsiya’?
There's a battle for truth being waged, says Pete Phillips.
‘Military jets can be heard overhead, we covet your prayers’ Ukraine church leader on why he’s not leaving
Timothy Sloan, an elder in a church in Lutsk, whose Christian community is sheltering from Russian bombs, sends an urgent message
Christian leaders have shared fake news about Ukraine on social media. Here's how to avoid being caught out
Misleading social media posts about the Ukranian conflict are proliferating, and Christians are being caught out. Steve Cox explains how you can verify before pressing the 'share' button
Praying for Ukraine may not change God's mind. But it will change you
Prayer isn’t a shopping-list petition of God, says George Pitcher
Let’s hold the people of Ukraine in our hearts, and pray to God for peace
Whether we believe in just war or take the path of pacifism, all Christians should inform themselves about the deepening crisis in Ukraine, and pray for peace in the region says Tim Farron
Why we’re no longer talking about short term mission trips
Operation Mobilisation (OM) has changed their approach to mission. Their CEO explains why
We should give thanks for the angel armies that helped win the first world war
German prisoners said they saw large forces behind the British lines
Inside the fastest growing religious movement on earth
The agnostic journalist Elle Hardy has been investigating how Pentecostalism is taking over the world. Here’s what she discovered
Afghanistan is the deadliest place in the world to follow Jesus. Why is the media silent?
Since the creation of the World Watch List 30 years ago, North Korea has consistently topped the charts as the most dangerous country to be a Christian. But now it’s been overtaken by Afghanistan. And that is having repercussions around the globe, says Ben Cohen
‘We can’t protect you’ - Why Christians in India have been warned to cancel Christmas
Amid growing hostility and proposed changes to the law, police have warned Indian Christians that they cannot protect them against violent attacks
Van life: How Jesus’ counter-cultural lifestyle inspired me to quit my job and live on the road
Why would a married couple trade their comfortable careers for a year of wild camping in Europe? Oliver R Moore-Howells explains how following Jesus turned him into an eleutheromaniac
‘A chaplain saved my life…literally’
Agnes Vella explains how a chance encounter with a Maltese priest in an English hospital changed her life forever
What retracing Jesus’ desert trek taught me about the kindness of strangers
After Jesus’ birth came a dramatic journey through a hostile wilderness. As Dan Morrice follows in Christ’s footsteps he considers how the lessons Jesus learned in the Negev desert shaped the man he became
Exclusive preview: Inside the world’s largest civilian hospital ship
The Global Mercy will offer lifesaving surgery to some of the world’s poorest communities and state of the art training for underprivileged doctors. And it’s doing it in the name of Jesus
How 750 persecuted Christians were rescued from Afghanistan
The evacuation was nearly thwarted, but God had a plan, reports a Christian charity helping to rescue Christians from the Taliban
I was a Muslim, but Jesus woke me from a coma and healed me. Now my whole family believes
A record number of Muslims are converting to Christianity across the Middle East. Jamila tells her story of meeting Jesus while paralysed in a Syrian hospital
‘I found God in a refugee camp and now I rescue cursed children’
When Argaw Ayele fled famine and war in Ethiopia to start a new life in Europe, he never dreamed that God would send him back to rescue children deemed as cursed by their tribes
What the Taliban takeover means for Afghanistan’s Christians
Many in the West feel powerless to help. But as Emma Fowle discovers, Christians in the UK are making a difference
Meet the Christian investigator ‘equipped by God’ to expose China’s Uyghur genocide
Earlier this year, the British parliament declared that China is committing genocide against the Uyghur people. The list of abuses includes the imprisonment of over a million people in sinister ‘re-education camps.’
We rescue children from the Taliban. Now they’re at greater risk than ever
Becky Murray has rescued several children from the Taliban through her Christian charity One By One. She fears that children in the region are being abandoned by Western authorities. ”We can’t and won’t do the same,” she says
In one of the most Christian countries on earth, everyone is banned from Church
Under current Ugandan Covid-19 restrictions, you can go to the shops or eat in a restaurant but not attend Church. Now, in a country where 89 per cent of people are Christians, that ban is being challenged in the courts
‘I rescue children from slavery’
When Becky Murray visited Pakistan, her heart was broken by the thousands of children forced to work as slaves in the country’s brick kilns. So she set about buying their freedom, one child at a time
Christians in India are being raped and murdered for their faith. The world must act now
Christian and Muslims in India are being systematically raped and murdered by Hindu extremists, according to a shocking new report from Open Doors and the London School of Economics
8 Christian Olympians to watch in Tokyo
Here’s what 8 top Olympians have said about their Christian faith
Meet the Christian Olympians heading to Tokyo
Speaking ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, some of the world’s top athletes share how sport has helped them in their Christian faith
What Christians need to know about the 'white saviour' complex
A few years ago, I went on a trip to Israel-Palestine with Christian Aid. I arrived at a mobile clinic where the other journalists and I were surrounded by young Palestinian children who excitedly practised their English on us and asked questions about SpongeBob SquarePants. After spending some time speaking ...
Christian campaigners decry ‘all talk and no action’ G7
The first meeting of world leaders in over a year was a disappointment, say charities
How one million Bibles were smuggled into China in just two hours
It was the D-Day of Bible smuggling: a million Bibles secretly unloaded onto Chinese shores in one night. Forty years on, some of the key players recount the remarkable and often miraculous operation
The Disappeared: 6 missing Christians to pray for
There are thousands of people worldwide who have been ‘disappeared’ for their beliefs – or because of the action their faith inspires them to take.
Sexually assaulted on a mission trip: how my dream almost ended before it began
Becky Murray’s sexual assault led her to question God’s calling on her life, until she met a nine-year-old girl who made her reconsider
A silent genocide is being waged against Christians in Nigeria. The world must act now
A slow-motion and largely ignored war is taking place in Africa’s most populous nation, and time is running out, says Rev Johnnie Moore
5 ways to build a truly diverse church
UK churches are still largely segregated according to race and language, says interpretation expert Jonathan Downie. Here’s some lessons we all need to learn if we want to change that
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