October
Pastor Jerry Eze hosted 2025’s largest gathering of Christians in the UK. Here’s what happened
40,000 Christians gathered in London’s ExCeL for the annual New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations event. AJ Gomez reports
The book helping you to grow spiritually in your 50s and 60s
Christopher Ash’s latest book offers guidance, encouragement – and a few strong opinions – for navigating the “afternoon” of life with faith, wisdom and purpose
Christian women spend years praying and waiting for husbands who may never come. Is the Church to blame?
Many Black Christian women are praying for Christian husbands who, statistically speaking, will never arrive. And the Church is partly to blame. That’s the controversial idea at the heart of Alan Charles’ new play Why Didn’t I Get Married? Sam Hailes spoke to him to find out more
The strangest miracle you’ve (probably) never heard of
Can an ordinary communion wafer miraculously transform into tissue from the heart of Jesus? As the world’s first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis, is canonised, Tony Wilson investigates one of the Eucharistic miracles that he so carefully catalogued before he died
Lisbeth’s rainbow moment: A legacy of faith and transformation
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3 ways Christians must respond to the latest church shooting horror
A shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis has left two children dead and 17 injured. In the midst of such tragedy, it’s easy to dismiss prayer in favour of more tangible responses, but Billy Hallowell urges that it is still the most powerful tool in the Church’s arsenal
Does life have a purpose?
How do we find meaning beyond the mundane? In this new series, Bruce Miller attempts to answer some of the questions that people most often ask the internet about God
When faith contributes to depression
If your journey of faith feels like a faithful hobble rather than a sprint, then be encouraged says Jeff Lucas, and don’t give up
Guest editor Muyiwa Olarewaju OBE introduces our Gospel-themed issue
This month’s issue of Premier Christianity has been guest edited by Premier Gospel’s Muyiwa Olarewaju. He explains why Gospel is such a powerful tool in building bridges from the Church to the world
How enslaved African Americans found liberation in the Bible
Lucy Peppiatt explains how Black Christians living in slavery found inspiration in New Testament teaching
From suicide attempt to salvation
Imrhan was once part of rap duo Lotto Boyzz. Although outwardly successful, he was plagued by anxiety. His despair drove him towards suicide, until an unexpected phone call from his mum set him on a path of restoration
Feeling stuck in your faith? You aren’t alone. Try this
Spiritual growth is a lifelong journey, says Joe Warton. But if you’re stuck in the doldrums, don’t panic. Here’s how to get going again
We've learned all we can from US megachurches. Let's be inspired by the Global Majority Church
The problem with Christianity in the UK is that we’re looking in the wrong direction, says Nick Page. It’s time to stop assuming our brothers and sisters across the pond have all the answers, and look to the example of Christians in the Majority World
The 14 best gospel songs ever
Ahead of the Premier Gospel awards at London’s O2, a variety of Christian leaders, artists and influencers from across the UK Church recommend the tunes that changed their lives
Kirk Franklin: ‘People have questioned my integrity. But my love for Jesus is paramount in everything I do’
He’s been scrutinised as intensely as he’s been celebrated but for Kirk Franklin, however painful, the criticism comes with the calling. The 20-time Grammy winner opens up about the toll of ministry, the traumas he’s still healing from and why his faith feels truer than ever
‘God is using gospel music to draw Japanese people to himself’
The border-crossing power of gospel music has long been championed. Church planter Ken Taylor was amazed to find that the movie Sister Act has opened a door for the good news in Japan, an almost entirely non-Christian nation
‘I refuse to let stage four kidney disease stop me praising God’
When Candice McKenzie was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that affected her kidney function, she refused to slow down. Years on, the Premier Gospel presenter is sharing her testimony and continuing to bring joy to the airwaves
The music teacher: 'I pray for all my pupils'
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet their ordinary tales of God at work rarely get told. In this series, we bring you stories of faith on the frontline
Ed Sheeran reminds me of Jesus. Here’s why
Martin Saunders looks at lessons from the life and work of an unlikely pop icon
Productivity is not a fruit of the Spirit
God invites us to rhythms of rest and reliance on him, not endless to-do lists, says Chine McDonald
5 ways you can respond to the Quiet Revival
Bible Society research has claimed there’s a new openness toward Christian faith. With many turning up at church services uninvited, James Lawrence explores how we can make the most of this new opportunity
Wet weddings: The couple who wouldn't let a typhoon prevent their marriage
This 19th century church in the Philippines may have been submerged by the rains of Typhoon Wipha, but Jade and Jamaica were determined to go ahead with their special day regardless
Not just the pastor’s wife. This book hits back at the devaluing of women in evangelical churches
Beth Allison Barr is reclaiming the role of the pastor’s wife. With honesty and hope, she invites the Church to think differently about women in leadership, says our reviewer
5 viral moments America’s nicest judge modelled Jesus
Judge Frank Caprio, beloved for his warmth and compassion on Caught in Providence, has died aged 88. Tim Bechervaise reflects on five moments where his blend of justice, grace and mercy revealed a heart that ultimately pointed to Jesus
Explained: Who was Chris Brain and what was the Nine O’Clock Service?
Chris Brain, leader of the now-disgraced Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) has been convicted of multiple counts of indecent assault. It is the latest scandal to rock the CofE and once again poses questions around complaints that were ignored for years
Dr Gwen Adshead: ‘Revenge is not an emotion we can afford’
Dr Gwen Adshead has spent more than three decades going into prisons and secure settings, including the infamous Broadmoor Hospital, working with people who have committed violent criminal offences. She talks to Tony Wilson about evil, justice and rehabilitation – and why revenge is not an emotion that humans can afford to indulge
You are not the main character. Jesus Christ is
When one of his youth group declared he was “the main character,” it struck a chord with Rev Jamie Sewell. Too often, Christians see themselves as the saviour - rather than pointing to the one who can really save. Let’s stop living as if it all depends on us and embrace the freedom Christ brings
Could You Open Your Heart and Home to a Child in Need?
“Faith, for us, is about connection, sharing love, and showing up for others.” - Emma, Barnardo’s foster carer
World peace? You can start by loving your neighbour next door
From war in Ukraine to asylum hotels in Essex, when it comes to international conflict or local politics, the Christian call to peace remains says George Pitcher. But what exactly does that look like?
4 powerful lessons from the NFL’s viral prayer moment
After Morice Norris was injured on the field, both teams ended the game and prayed together. Billy Hallowell shares the lessons Christians can learn from this unexpected turn of events
Gen Z are hungry for full-fat faith. Let’s give it to them
Headlines heralding a return to Christian faith continued apace this weekend, with The Times reporting on the young converts coming back to church. Luke Hancorn says he’s seen it in his own congregation - and is convinced that something new is afoot. This is what we’ve prayed for, he says. Let’s not back down now but boldly proclaim the gospel of good news
The President of Kenya wants to build a new church. Why are Christians opposing it?
Some evangelical leaders in Kenya have backed President William Ruto’s plan to construct a new 8,000-seat chapel at the presidential residence. But other denominations have been highly critical. Daniel Sitole reports
Ant Middleton wants a leader with 'Christian values'. I don't think he understands what that means
In announcing he will stand for Mayor of London, the former-SAS soldier, Ant Middleton said Britain’s capital deserves a “native” leader with “generational Christian values coursing through their veins”. Co-opting Christianity for political gain is dangerous, says Symon Hill, and the Church should play no part in supporting it
This 75-year-old Christian was arrested for holding a sign. What’s happening to Scotland?
A grandmother has been arrested after offering conversation near an abortion facility in Scotland. Charges have been dropped, but her arrest is a chilling insight into the dangerous results of abortion ‘buffer zone’ legislation, says Jeremiah Igunnubole
Fatherlessness is damaging our society. This helpful book is a must-read for church leaders
Fatherlessness is one of the most damaging yet overlooked issues of our time, says pastor and author John Woods. In Good Bad No Dad, he combines personal experience, biblical insight, and moving testimonies to show how the “father deficit” shapes lives and where true healing can be found.
The Materialists: A rom-com that reminds us God’s love is without measure
Celine Song’s latest film follows a successful New York matchmaker as she pairs people up by reducing them to numbers such as age, height and salary. But God doesn’t do this, says Giles Gough, and neither should Christians looking for love
Help! I'm a Christian entrepreneur who uses AI...but should I?
The possibilities presented to us by Artificial Intelligence are many and varied, says Jean Kabasomi. But the technology also presents many questions and conflicts. In this open letter to the Church, she urges leaders to be proactive in helping their flock navigate it’s use wisely
Here’s a logical, biblical and pastoral response to Kemi Badenoch’s crisis of faith
In the face of evil and suffering, is belief in God still morally justifiable? No, says Kemi Badenoch who last week admitted losing her Christian faith following the revelations of Josef Fritzl’s crimes. In this response, Andrew Ollerton says that rejecting God because of evil is to saw off the very branch we are sitting on
The Christian guide to dating apps
How can Christians approach online dating while staying true to their faith and values? Deborah Adelodun explores the pros and cons of five of the most popular dating apps available today
John Henry Newman has been made a Doctor of the Church. But who is he and what does it mean?
St John Henry Newman, one of the most influential English theologians of the 19th century, is to be made a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo. Jack Chisnall, who lived in Newman’s room at Oxford, explains what it means - and the impact Newman had on his own life and faith
How to wrestle with God
You can try and outrun your shame, but eventually, the road runs out. Far better to wrestle with God and go away limping than to live with all that is left unsaid, says Joshua Luke Smith
When funding was pulled from youth work, the Church stepped up. Did the government notice?
After years of cuts, Keir Starmer’s pledge to invest millions in young people will be welcomed by many. But Andy du Feu notes the Church has been plugging the funding gap for years — and it’s about time Westminster acknowledged that
Carrying Hope: One mother’s journey through grief, faith and the fight for life
When Beth Appleby received a devastating prenatal diagnosis, she faced it with grief, grit and faith. Carrying Hope is a moving story of holding onto God in the darkest of valleys, says Lisa Skinner
For the quiet revival to grow louder, it needs theologians at its heart
Every revival in history has been accompanied by a simultaneous renewal of theology. Yet, as the recent closure of Spurgeon’s College shows, the Church today is in urgent need of fresh investment in the next generation of theologians, says Graham Tomlin
Why Christians like me are opposing Sean Feucht’s ‘persecution’ narrative
Eight Canadian cities have revoked performance permits for the worship leader Sean Feucht. But contrary to what he claims, the songwriter is not being persecuted for his faith, argues Elias Dummer
Tired, worn out and feeling meh this summer? You’re still loved and seen
Whether you’re glammed up for the joyful events of the Christian festival season, or curled under a blanket with a summer cold — God sees your heart. You are fully known and fully loved. How liberating, says Gemma Hunt
Why I’m refusing to take sides in the ‘Gospel vs CCM’ debate
When Maverick City’s Norman Gyamfi appeared to criticise Gospel music it prompted a strong reaction. But when we start arguing about whether one musical style or another is better, we risk losing the heart of worship altogether, says Samuel Nwachukwu
How to build a spiritual life that actually works
You don’t need to love silence or structure to enjoy Faith Habits and How to Form Them. With warmth and clarity, Emma Timms offers an accessible guide to deeper spiritual practices for any stage of faith, says our reviewer
The Christian voice must return to the dangerous middle ground
When everyone is an extremist, George Pitcher argues it’s time for Christians to reclaim the middle ground
The Sunday Express is right – Gen Z are coming to faith. I’ve seen it with my own eyes
On the day that a national newspaper ran a front-page story hailing a “spiritual U-turn” among 16-24-year-olds, evangelist Greg Downes was preaching in a church in Cornwall. When five people responded to the gospel, he saw the headline play out in real time. And it’s not an isolated incident, he says
What should Christians think about three parent babies?
Earlier this year, the first baby born with DNA from three people was widely celebrated as a breakthrough in combating mitochondrial diseases. But aside from the long term safety of the procedure, there are many ethical and moral issues that the Christian faith must speak into, says Dr Chris Wild
Inside the Cult of the Jesus Army is a sensitive portrayal of the pain of abuse
Focusing on former members as they unpack the trauma inflicted by years of coercion, control and abuse within the Jesus Army, a new BBC documentary lays bare the grim reality the cult managed to mask for decades. Watching it, Tim Wyatt says, there’s little to do but weep with them
I’m so over the Christian hot take. Here’s 5 ways to respond
The internet is awash with Christians posting character assassinations of other Christians, says Max Avard. If you have a problem with Bethel Church or wish Brandon Lake had not collaborated with Jelly Roll, perhaps a 60 second video on social media is not the answer. Here’s some suggestions to help us do better
I’m celebrating the UK’s first female archbishop. I don’t care that she is in a civil partnership
Those who are opposing Cherry Vann’s appointment as the new Archbishop of Wales on the basis of her sexuality are conveniently forgetting that they once opposed the ordination of women altogether. Prof Helen King says their arguments are hypocritical and outdated
By living in a civil partnership, Cherry Vann is openly contradicting God’s Word. She isn’t fit to be Archbishop
Cherry Vann has been entrusted with the spiritual leadership of a Church while publicly rejecting the moral standards it is called to uphold, says Christian Concern’s Andrea Williams
Stephen Colbert wasn’t cancelled for criticising Trump but being too one sided
Catholic comedian Stephen Colbert has criticised CBS for cancelling The Late Show, alleging his outspoken views on Donald Trump got him fired. But Billy Hallowell argues that comedy is not the place for one-sided politics
Speaking up for the vulnerable cost me the Labour Party whip, but it’s what Jesus would do
Rachael Maskell MP was suspended from the Labour Party after opposing the Welfare Reform Bill, which she said would introduce “Dickensian cuts belonging to a different era and a different party”. She does not regret standing up for poor and the marginalised, she says
We don’t have to panic about the darkness in culture. I love heavy metal and I love Jesus
In the wake of Ozzy Osbourne’s death, Josh Hinton reflects on his introduction to heavy metal, his father’s passionate rejection of it, and why Christians shouldn’t fully separate themselves from the culture due to its darker edges — arguing that faith and heavy metal may be more compatible than we think
Age verification on porn was just the first step. Now we need to ban it altogether
As age checks on UK porn sites come into effect, James Mildred welcomes the move but argues it doesn’t go far enough. To truly protect our children, we must confront the harms of the porn industry and push for a total ban, he says
Assisted suicide would have told my friend his life was over. We told him it still mattered
Reflecting on his final months with a terminally ill friend, Jamie Gillies warns that the passing of the Assisted Dying Bill would have dire consequences for society’s most vulnerable
‘We surveyed our community asking one simple question and our congregation doubled as a result!’
Rev Vinny Whitworth shares how a midweek ministry, born from a simple community survey, transformed the life and future of his small Bolton church
Millions are watching these bizarre AI Bible videos on TikTok. Should you be worried or encouraged?
Artificial intelligence offers a new way to bring ancient stories to life — but the latest TikTok trend is also leaving millions vulnerable to mistakes and misrepresentations, says Chris Goswami. Here’s his low-down on some of the best and worst AI Bible shorts
You’ve just purchased a Bible for £24.99. Where does the profit go?
Donald Trump making $1.3m from sales of the ‘God Bless the USA’ Bible has caused outrage among some Christians. But where our Bibles are made and who profits from sales of scripture is more complex – and controversial – than you might think. Tim Wyatt explores
A Safe Space for Kids in a Shaking World
A look at how SAT-7 KIDS satellite television ministry provides for children across the Middle East and North Africa who are living in places of conflict, dealing with trauma, and waiting for Jesus’ return
We don’t need to recover a ‘golden age’ of Christianity. ‘The Great Return’ falls short
Jamie Franklin’s The Great Return urges the Church to reclaim its past dominance but confuses the decline of Christendom with that of Christianity, argues Dr Joshua Bloor. True renewal, he argues, must centre on Christ, not nostalgia
This book explores the parallels between faith and fitness
In The Spirituality of Running, marathon-running priest James McShane invites readers to consider similarities between physical and spiritual health
‘The Jesus Army nearly broke my faith – but Christ’s teachings still sustain me’
The Jesus Fellowship Church started as a small Christian commune but became one of the most abusive cults in Britain. Since closing in 2019, it has paid out more than £7.7m in compensation to abuse survivors and twelve members have been convicted of sexual offences. John Everett shares his story of how he was recruited into the Jesus Army, and what happened when he left
What the new Fantastic Four gets right (and wrong) about God
Fantastic Four: First Steps leans into the domestic family dynamics as well as the heroics. It is a combination that feels perfectly balanced and for viewers with faith, Giles Gough says there’s an extra layer of biblical parallels woven into the film
Hulk Hogan (1953–2025): The controversial wrestling icon who found grace in God
Hulk Hogan was a pop culture icon who brought wrestling to the masses but also became embroiled in public scandal. Gareth Thompson reflects on a legacy marked by fame, failure and a late-in-life surrender to faith
The First Hymn: This fascinating documentary explores the oldest surviving Christian song
An ancient Christian hymn lost for centuries has been rediscovered. In this ambitious documentary, two prominent worship leaders are challenged to bring it back to life
Too young to preach? There’s no such thing
If the Church is serious about raising up the next generation, they need to be intentional about making space in the pulpit, says Matt Davies. You don’t have to wait until you’re retired to be a preacher. At just 19, he has been doing it for four years. And he’s longing for the day when it’s not unusual, but encouraged
Parents can rejoice. The UK is finally enforcing age checks on porn
After years of delay, the Online Safety Act has introduced age verification for online porn, and with it, greater protections for children. James Mildred says this is a moment for parents to rejoice, but only if Ofcom does its duty and enforces the regulations
As a Christian, I am inspired by the Lionesses' faith, hope and determination
From Chloe Kelly’s second attempts to Michelle Agyemang’s on pitch prayers, the women’s Euro 2025 championships has been full of great sporting moments, metaphors and lessons in life and faith
‘I’m a Ukrainian church leader. Amid the heartache of war, we’re baptising more people than ever’
The Russian invasion is still wreaking a heavy toll, and the need is great, says Ukrainian church leader David Karcha. He reports on how his church is seeing God move powerfully, even amid the chaos of war
If AI-generated band The Velvet Sundown thrives, Christian creativity may be in jeopardy
The hottest new band on the scene, The Velvet Sundown, was drawing millions of streams before listeners realised every note and lyric had been composed by artificial intelligence. Jermaine Dallas considers what the trend could mean for writers of worship music
I’m a Christian author and speaker. But I admit doubt is a mosquito I can never quite kill
I don’t lose my faith. I just mislay it occasionally, says Jeff Lucas
The CEO kiss cam scandal is a warning to us all — we should be praying, not laughing
A viral kiss cam moment at a Coldplay concert quickly spiraled into a public spectacle of mockery and ridicule for mass entertainment. But instead of laughing, Billy Hallowell says this should prompt us to pray for the families involved, reflect on our own shortcomings, and respond with compassion
Am I missing out on Eucharistic adoration?
Tom Wright answers a reader’s question about the Catholic practice of Eucharistic adoration
What did Jesus mean by 'turn the other cheek'?
Jesus’ most radical teaching can seem impossible to obey. Does he really expect us to welcome and invite more suffering? In digging deeper, David Instone-Brewer uncovers an explanation that will make you want to follow Jesus’ instructions
‘I was ready to end my life but God showed me the light’
After a lifetime of masking hurt with alcohol, Craig Paton hit rock bottom. On the brink of taking his own life, a moment of sunlight brought clarity and changed everything
Why is the Bible so violent?
When we come across difficult passages in the Old Testament, we needn’t turn away says Dr Andrew Ollerton. Here’s how we can better understand them
The Forgotten Door: In our rush to prove truth, the Church forgot about beauty
It’s not always a solid argument that wins a heart to Christ but, increasingly, an encounter with something far more transcendent. Let’s get rid of the moss and bring on the beauty, says Andy Kind
Tirades of abuse, constant criticism and physical assault: Meet the church leaders abused by their congregations
As one church leader reports being afraid to open their emails in anticipation of the abuse they’re likely to receive, Heather Tomlinson investigates the claim that pastors - not congregants - are the most common victims of spiritual abuse
What happened when a Christian journalist tried speed dating
Can you find love in just four minutes? Lauren Windle spills the beans
Ozzy Osbourne (1948-2025): Prince of darkness or man of faith?
The Black Sabbath frontman may have employed occult imagery during his on-stage antics, but he also identified as a Christian. Derek Walker takes a closer look at the rockstar’s life and faith
Pat Barrett: The writer of ‘Good good Father’ on pride, platform and how he stays grounded
Don’t believe the hype. That’s what God told Pat Barrett just before his songs became global sensations. Ahead of his appearance at Big Church Festival, the worship artists tells Sam Hailes why he loves coming to England
What’s in your hands?
However insignificant you may feel it is, whatever you have to give to God is enough, says Gemma Hunt
‘My colleague was murdered by Kenyan police. I spent seven years fighting for justice’
Award-winning human rights lawyer Janice Muchemi explains how her Christian faith motivated her to keep campaigning for justice, even when the odds were stacked against her
The speech therapist: ‘Many of my patients are Christians and therapy can include singing worship songs’
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet their ordinary tales of God at work rarely get told. In this series, we bring you stories of faith on the frontline
Why The Bear is TV's blueprint for a healthy church
A sweary Chicago TV series about a dysfunctional family restaurant has become a cult hit. As the fourth series hits our screens, Martin Saunders says it has a lot to teach Christians about loving one another well
Wait… are Christians cool now?
Faith is on the increase, says Chine McDonald. It’s time to be bold in speaking about what Jesus means to us
Ballers in God founder John Bostock: ‘The pitch has been my pulpit’
From a glittering start as an England international to being without a contract, John Bostock’s footballing career has been one of immense highs and lows. The founder of Ballers in God shares how he’s not only kept his faith, but grown through all he has endured – and why he is more excited than ever about sharing Jesus in the world of elite sport
Why Tracey Emin painted The Crucifixion
The enfant terrible of Young British Artists doesn’t describe herself as religious. But she paints a crucifixion scene every Easter
Have Church of England leaders remembered church teaching on sex?
The General Synod of the Church of England has voted to ditch an infamous 1991 document which expressed traditional views on human sexuality. What are the implications of the church’s decision? Rev Dr Christopher Landau gives his view
Too much of our theology is influenced by America. Let’s look at the rest of the world
With Donald Trump’s second state visit to the UK approaching, Alex Smith explores the extent to which American politics and theology continue to influence British Christian thought
‘I lost my career for questioning transgender ideology’
Christian artist Victoria Culf explains how an honest conversation about gender led to accusations of transphobia and the loss of her work
Your greatest need isn’t sex. It’s intimacy
In The Intimacy Deficit, Ed Shaw redefines intimacy as something far deeper than sex – offering a rich, biblically grounded vision of connection with God, self, others and creation. It is a hopeful, practical book a much-needed guide for addressing the relational disconnect so many experience today, says Rachel Bedford
Scottie Scheffler is right. Sport isn’t meant to fulfil us, only God can do that
The world’s best golfer dominated this year’s British Open. But it was Scottie Scheffler’s pre-event press conference that garnered the most headlines. Scheffler loves golf, he says, but he loves God and his family more. It’s a great perspective that deserves to be properly understood, says Jonny Reid
Danny Kruger’s speech has gone viral. Is this a turning point?
Danny Kruger MP’s impassioned speech to an empty House of Commons chamber on the need to restore the UK’s Christian heritage has been viewed more than 3 millions times. It’s a roadmap for a Christian counter-revolution, says David Campanale
Don’t just pray, ‘Thy kingdom come’. We need to pray, ‘My kingdom go’
Andy Flannagan introduces a new song for the church, which invites Christians to relinquish control and submit to God’s authority
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