Stories
The power of the Christian camp
Lee Musson found God on a Christian holiday as a child. Little did he know that one day he’d work for Rock UK, the organisation that owned the campsite where he first said yes to Jesus
Tim Keller: ‘I never want to go back to the prayer life I had before cancer’
The pastor and bestselling author reveals what God has been teaching him through terminal cancer
The civil servant: 'I'm deeply motivated by a God who is commited to putting the world to rights'
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet ‘ordinary’ tales of God at work rarely get told. In this series, we bring you stories of faith on the frontline
‘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
A famous atheist endorsed my book about Jesus
Michael Coren has been trying to break down barriers between atheists and Christians. He explains how his approach is resulting in small victories
7 things climbing Mount Kilimanjaro taught me about faith and justice
When Esther Swaffield-Bray set out to climb Africa’s highest peak, she had no idea of the lessons she would learn along the way
Subscribe to Premier Christianity
Great offer!
Unlimited access to all the opinion, stories and features on the Premier Christianity website
PLUS
Instant access to the magazine on your mobile device on the Premier Christianity app
PLUS
Print edition of the magazine in all its beautifully designed glory
*UK only. But if you are not in the UK, don’t worry, there are offers for you too…
What now for the Church of England and gay marriage?
After years of debate, the Church of England could be weeks away from changing its position on same-sex marriage. But will the outcome satisfy either side? Tim Wyatt looks ahead to what may happen
The new Bishop of Blackburn opposes female ordination. Is CofE unity at risk?
The appointment of Rt Rev Philip North as Bishop of Blackburn has reignited the debate within the CofE over views on female ordination – and may have implications for upcoming debates on same-sex marriage. Can the Church find a way forward?
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
I’m a Christian working in the NHS. The system is broken. Here’s how you can pray for us
What you’ve seen in the news is not exaggerated, says Dr Giles Cattermole. Pray for solutions and for NHS staff, but also for the salvation of our nation, he says
‘I was dabbling in paganism and taking cocaine. But then God called my name and I’ve never been the same’
A series of miraculous interventions while at university saw Jo Hargreaves turn her back on paganism and drug taking. At the same time, hundreds of miles away, God was working in her family
Megachurch leader Jack Graham: ‘Being a pastor is the world’s worst profession…but the greatest calling’
Sam Hailes meets the pastor of one of America’s largest churches to talk Trump, trauma and how he guards himself from temptation
God’s Undertakers: ‘We constantly pray that families encounter God’s peace in their grief’
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet ordinary tales of God at work rarely get told. In this series, we bring you stories of faith on the frontline
Ram Gidoomal: How the Hindu turned Christian entrepreneur raised £5m for charity
The former mayor of London candidate speaks to Abi Thomas about arriving in England as a refugee, encountering Jesus in a pub and what motivated him to raise millions to help those in poverty
‘God told me to build a business worth millions’
Megan Landreth-Smith explains how a vision from God prompted her to start a soft drinks company that is helping to end sexual slavery
What King Charles’s first Christmas message revealed about his Christian faith
King Charles III’s record-breaking Christmas Day broadcast highlighted the fine balancing act that a believing monarch in a secular society must tread, says Catherine Pepinster
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
I’m not a nun, but God called me to make a public vow of celibacy
Rev Kate Wharton did not foresee God calling her to a life without a husband and children. Here, she explains her journey, and why she chose to mark her commitment to a life of singleness with a service at Liverpool Cathedral
‘God is present whether we feel it or not’ - A Ukrainian Christian reflects on what Advent means to him
When living through conflict, the season of Advent takes on an even greater significance, says Taras Dyatlik
Is Christianity declining in England and Wales?
The traditional expression of Christianity that was once part of England’s cultural fabric is waning, the recent Census results suggest
From domestic abuse to new creation
Autumn Miles was trapped in an abusive relationship, until a powerful encounter with God during the depth of her despair set her on a path to freedom
God’s builder: ‘All my work is for the glory of God’
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet ‘ordinary’ tales of God at work rarely get told. In this series, we bring you stories of faith on the front line
‘God used donkeys to rescue me from addiction’
After leaving the army, Patrick Barrett turned to alcohol to cope with trauma, but God called him back to his childhood faith using the most unlikely means
‘I would love to be out of a job’ Investigative reporter Julie Roys on uncovering Church scandals
Julie Roys explains why she’s determined to expose abuse and misconduct in the Church
Pastor Mick Fleming: ‘An angel told me to forgive the man who abused me’
Pastor Mick Flemming’s Church on the Street hit the headlines during Covid-19. He speaks about his own abuse and drug addiction, doing church differently and becoming a spokesperson for the poor and marginalised
Eddie Holman: The undisputed king of Northern soul is still putting God first
Eddie Holman is a veteran soul singer whose ’Hey There Lonely Girl’ million-seller is still heard on radio and TV today. He is also an ordained minister with a newly re-issued gospel album. But it’s Holman’s phenomenal popularity on the North of England’s Northern soul scene which recently brought the singer to Blackpool, as it did journalist Tony Cummings
Should church leaders be forced to break confidentiality and report abuse?
If the Government brings in mandatory reporting, church leaders would be legally bound to disclose any instances of abuse they hear about during Confession. Would the move bring necessary reform to protect society’s most vulnerable, or constitute unjust interference with religious freedom? Tim Wyatt speaks to those on both sides of the debate
I think Matthew Perry's encounter with God was real. It reminds me of my own
The Friends actor has spoken candidly about a supernatural encounter with God on his kitchen floor. It reminds former Miss England, Natasha Hemmings, of her own conversion experience
Burnout caused me to deconstruct my Christian faith, but liturgy helped me put it back together again
When tragedy caused Aaron Damiani to doubt everything he believed, it was ancient church practices that provided him with the space and safety he needed to believe again
David Campanale: ‘An anti-Christian faction of the Lib Dems is bullying me for going to church’
A prospective parliamentary candidate has alleged he’s been the victim of harassment and bullying by a “lynch mob” of Liberal Democrat members who object to his Christian beliefs. In this interview with Premier's Marcus Jones, David Campanale says he’s facing de-selection because of his faith, and urges party leader Sir Ed Davey to intervene
Like Stormzy, my son was stabbed. Here’s 4 things the Church can do to tackle gun and knife crime
As Stormzy speaks about being stabbed and two men die in Brixton, Pastor Lorraine Jones Burrell shares her experience of losing her son to street violence, and encourages the Church to do more
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
‘Quitting booze was the best leadership decision I ever made’
Twelve months after he decided to stop drinking, Carl Beech explains why being a sober leader is something he’ll never regret
From breakdown to born again
When a series of challenging situations led to a breakdown, it was a friend’s invitation to church that finally put Tom Stevens on the long road to recovery
Anthony Ray Hinton: ‘I spent 30 years on death row for a crime I didn’t commit. But God had a plan’
Sentenced to death for a crime he didn’t commit, Anthony Ray Hinton spent 30 years inside an Alabamian prison waiting to be executed
Calvin Robinson: ‘I’ve always struggled with organised religion…maybe that’s why I got kicked out of one’
The GB News presenter says ordination in the Church of England was “snatched away” from him because of his conservative views
Oli London: I’ve rejected my trans identity to follow Jesus. Now I want to be baptised
After speaking to a priest and reading about Jesus, he decided to reject gender ideology altogether
I used to feel like a girl trapped in a boy’s body. But now I know God created me male
Andrew Bunt wrestled with his identity for many years before reading the Bible helped him find peace. He welcomes new NHS guidelines, which acknowledge gender-questioning young people may be experiencing a transient phase
Evil spirits used to terrorise me. I know what Halloween is really all about
Laura Maxwell shares her testimony and explains why Halloween is best avoided
Sex is a good gift from God. But it isn’t easy when you have a chronic illness
Sex is often challenging to talk about. But as a Christian with a long term chronic illness, it can be even harder. Here are some of the lessons Fiona Smith has learned over the years
‘My wife had a psychotic episode, then I was diagnosed with incurable cancer. Here are 16 lessons we're learning in God's classroom'
Serious illness has brought my wife and I closer to one another, and closer to God, says Alan Palmer, as he lists 16 spiritual lessons he's learned in the midst of crippling treatment for blood cancer
‘I will never be rid of the temptation to look at porn. But I have learned to resist it’
Through his decades-long battle against an addiction to porn, Nick Mance has learned to shun shame and run into the arms of a God who loves him and longs for him to be free. Now he’s sharing his story to encourage others to open up about their struggles
Should the Church pay reparations to atone for slavery?
In looking at how the UK Church profited from slavery, calls to put right a wrong are growing this Black History Month. Should financial reparations be considered, and if so, how would funds be allocated? Tim Wyatt investigates
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
‘Close your school or we kill the girls’ – Why fundamentalist Islam is running rampage in Afghanistan and Iran
Women are an easy target for Islamic fundamentalists.
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
Praying for patients – punishable or permitted?
A Christian doctor who offered to pray for patients has agreed to attend a course on “boundaries” after settling his case with the NHS. The Christian Legal Centre said Dr Richard Scott has been “vindicated” as NHS England lawyers agreed that the doctor is free to pray with patients if he does so within General Medical Council guidance. Mark Pickering from Christian Medical Fellowship takes a closer look at the case
From attempted suicide to saving souls
Jay Lowder was seconds away from ending his life when an unexpected interruption, followed by a dramatic revelation of Jesus’ love for him, changed everything
Will King Charles III defend the faith?
The Queen was perhaps the most visible – and admired – Christian in British public life. But how will her son’s faith influence his rule?
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
Dante Bowe has been dropped by Maverick City. Here’s what we know so far
The popular worship collective Maverick City has cut ties with singer Dante Bowe. In a statement the band said Dante’s behaviour had been “inconsistent” with their “values and beliefs”. As fans are left confused and speculation mounts online, Heather Tomlinson reports on what we know so far, and suggests what a truly Christian response should look like
The Queen’s funeral reminds us that even monarchs are under the dominion of Christ
As we say the final goodbye to our late monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, Catherine Pepinster decodes the funeral service that Her Late Majesty personally planned
Windsor: ‘Hundreds are pouring into our church to thank God for the Queen’
As visitors descend on the small town of Windsor, church leaders there are providing a space for people to grieve and remember the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Is Shia LaBeouf’s conversion for real this time?
Ahead of the premiere of his new film, Padre Pio, Shia LeBeouf has claimed playing the saint rekindled his faith. Heather Tomlinson takes a closer look at what the actor told Bishop Robert Barron in the viral YouTube interview
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
‘To our surprise, we’ve become a hub for Ukrainian refugees’
Six months on from the Russian invasion, churches, schools and organisations across the UK are working together to make a difference. Jennifer Ross gives us a snapshot of the good work happening in the Diocese of Rochester
‘I saw Jesus while on ayahuasca’
Was I bathed in white sound or swimming in loud light? With a crystal bowl vibrating all my cells, I couldn’t tell the difference. And why were the words “child of God” in my head vibrating even louder?
‘I was abused for a decade and made to feel it was my fault’
As the damning report into the sexual exploitation of children in Telford is finally released, 20-year-old Samantha Smith shares her story of grooming and abuse, and how her faith is slowly helping her through it
‘I thought only stupid people believed in God’
Guillaume Bignon reveals how a series of improbable events, and an awakening of his conscience, helped move him from assured atheist to confident Christian
Archie Coates: Succeeding Nicky Gumbel, tackling LGBT issues and reaching the lost
The new leader of HTB reveals his future plans for the largest Anglican church in England
God on the dairy farm
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet ‘ordinary’ tales of God at work rarely get told. In this new series, we bring you stories of faith on the front line
Evangelist Michael Youssef: ‘I want to see a million souls saved'
As he celebrates 20 years of his ministry, Leading the Way, the forthright evangelist shares his passion for proclaiming the gospel
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
'A simple invitation to a brilliant Christian camp changed my life'
A simple invitation radically altered the course of Tony Uddin’s life
‘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
TikTok is helping us reach millions with the gospel
Just months after posting their first video, John and Jade Reynolds Christian content is reaching millions. John explains how you can use this social media platform for the Kingdom
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
Rev Richard Coles on grief, death and what heaven looks like
Having lost his husband David to alcoholic liver disease, Rev Richard Coles is set to explore grief in a new Channel 4 documentary. He tells Sam Hailes that bereavement never caused him to doubt his faith and argues it's a mistake to hold funerals that celebrate a person's life
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
‘I was scarred by my abortions, but God healed me’
Rachel MacKenzie explains how she encountered God’s love and compassion
From psychedelic potions to demonic deliverance
When Tony Maisey hit rock bottom, he headed to the Peruvian jungle to seek healing in an ancient tribal ceremony. Little did he know it would open him up to an evil assault
Alpha’s Nicky Gumbel on retiring from HTB, evangelising the world and addressing racism
As he retires from leading the largest Anglican church in England, the Alpha course pioneer and prolific church planter says he’s just getting started
Christ-like consultancy: ‘My faith is always present with me in the workplace’
The best, most Christ-like thing for the client is usually good for business, says Lizzie How
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
No one expects a priest to be a victim of domestic abuse, but it happened to me
Abuse can happen to anyone, even those in church leadership. When Esther* finally reached a point of crisis, she found a listening ear and practical help from Clergy Support Trust
‘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
700 responded to Franklin Graham’s ‘God loves you’ message in London. Can he win the critics over?
Protests over his past comments on Islam and homosexuality led to the postponement of Franklin Graham’s last UK tour. But two years later, the US evangelist is back, preaching to a near-capacity crowd at London’s Excel centre. Marcus Jones was there, and witnessed hundreds responding to the Gospel
US Christians campaigned for the end of abortion. Will the British Church follow in their footsteps?
As Roe v Wade is overturned, Tim Wyatt looks at the implications for the Christian pro-life movement in the UK
‘I was abused in church. 20 years later, I found freedom at a men’s event’
Men’s events are often criticised for being overly macho but Carl Beech, leader of The Gathering, says they’re vital safe spaces. As they gathered together for the first time in three years, he shares one remarkable testimony from this year’s event
Rev Les Isaac: ‘We need more integrity and humility in politics…and in the Church’
Rev Les Isaac, founder of Street Pastors UK, speaks to Tim Farron about his sermon, which appeared to inspire ex-health secretary, Sajid Javid, to quit the government
‘God’s presence was irresistible’ - Andy Flannagan on the 'holy moments' at Parliament prayer breakfast
Hours after Andy Flannagan led parliamentarians in singing about integrity, truth and justice, a spate of government ministerial resignations took place, with Sajid Javid referencing the prayer breakfast in his speech. As Boris Johnson confirms he will stand down this autumn, Sam Hailes speaks to Flannagan, who also heads Christians in Politics, to ask what we should make of claims that a prayer meeting led to the highest number of ministerial resignations in history.
‘I helped capture Saddam Hussein’
Eric Maddox’s pioneering interrogation techniques led to the capture of one of the world’s most wanted men. But if it wasn’t for hearing the voice of God, Eric never would have joined the military
God on the ward: ‘Being a follower of Jesus affects everything’
The Church is made up of Christians from a myriad of different professions, and yet ‘ordinary’ tales of God at work rarely get told. In the first of a new series, Paul Woolley discovers stories of faith on the front line
Jendella Benson: ‘When I was charged with money laundering I thought God would deliver me’
In this exclusive interview, the British-Nigerian novelist opens up about the unexpected conviction for money laundering which radically changed her theology and how the love and support of her church family helped keep her faith alive while her husband was in prison
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
From witchcraft to Orthodoxy
The writer and environmentalist Paul Kingsnorth was attracted to nature religions, but says Jesus ‘dragged’ him out of Wicca and towards him
‘Archie’s faith inspired mine, I won’t give up fighting for his life’
After a tragic accident left him in a coma, Hollie Dance is convinced her son just needs more time to heal and is adamant that she’ll fight to her last breath to give it to him. She reveals how his wish to be baptised was fulfilled in hospital and how their faith is sustaining them through this tragedy
Is the era of the Christian bookshop over?
It’s harder than ever to sustain a business selling Christian books. But that doesn’t mean the vision of having a Christian presence on the high street is over. Tim Wyatt reports
I was bombed in the Falklands war, but God miraculously saved me
The Falklands war ended 40 years ago today. But for Steve Jones, whose life was miraculously saved during a bombing raid on Ajax Bay during the conflict, it was just the start of his faith journey
‘Grenfell changed my life’ - how one woman brought God’s presence into a place of tragedy
Today marks five years since the fire at Grenfell Tower killed 72 people. In the aftermath of the tragedy, volunteering to support the emergency workers at the site had a profound effect upon Gail Millar, ultimately changing the course of her life
From idol worship to Christian evangelist
Nia-Cerise Conteh explains how a surprise encounter with the Holy Spirit in her kitchen radically changed the trajectory of her life
God is still in the miracle business. I know because he did one for me
When God supernaturally rescued Joanna Watson from a car crash that could have ended her life, it set her on a new path. She’s spent years collecting stories of other miracles and, ahead of Pentecost, says we should expect them in our own lives, too
‘A coma stole years of my life’
After contracting meningitis during childbirth, Marcy Gregg awoke to a world she no longer recognised
Bazil Meade MBE: Pioneering founder of London Community Gospel Choir
As London Community Gospel Choir celebrates its 40th birthday, their founder explains why he’s still intent on making music for the masses
Heidi Crowter: ‘We are amazing just the way we are. Please accept us.’
The Christian disability rights campaigner is heading back to court, continuing her fight for an equal right to life for all
Bowel cancer led my husband to Jesus. I pray it does for Dame Debs too
When Louise Blyth’s husband died of bowel cancer aged 34, his death was marked by a supernatural peace that led them both to find faith
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
Why some Christians are worried Disney is no longer ‘family-friendly’
A row about Disney and LGBT issues is breaking out among Christians in America. As the debate crosses the Atlantic, Heather Tomlinson looks at why this beloved institution is generating so much controversy
Hallucinations and delusions made me lonely. Medication helped, but the Church has a role too
Loneliness is the theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Sharon Hastings suggests how the Church can reach out
‘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.
Peter Hitchens: 'When I was an atheist I was even more selfish than I am now'
The controversial commentator speaks to Tim Farron about his journey from atheism to Christianity, and why Christian politicians should expect to be reviled by their colleagues
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
What finding Jesus taught me about my Jewish roots
When Jennifer Rosner became a Christian at university, she had no idea that her new-found faith would lead her ever deeper into her Jewish heritage. Here, she shares her story
How 90 days of cold showers, fasting and no TV changed my life
Find out what happened when a Protestant embarked on a radical Catholic spiritual exercise which promised him freedom from addictions, individualism and pride
Why I walked away from Christianity – and why my dad stayed
A father and son share their respective reasons for staying and leaving the faith
‘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
91% of Christians say mental illness is stigmatised in the Church. But the solution may be simpler than you think
How mental health friendly is your church? Tim Wyatt investigates
'I was suicidal. But then a Christian prayed for me and everything changed'
When Donna Sleep was invited to Creation Fest by a friend, she was depressed and suicidal. She went, intending to return home to take her own life afterwards. But instead she encountered the powerful love of Jesus
Maverick City’s Dante Bowe: ‘Being famous for being a Christian is ridiculous’
Ahead of his UK debut at Big Church Day Out, the trailblazing worship leader and fashion model talks to us about breaking boundaries, hearing from God and why he’s ‘traumatised’ by the thought of being a Christian celebrity
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.
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
Like Ronaldo, I lost a son. At first I wanted to scream at God. But now my faith is stronger
When Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez announced the death of their baby, it brought back memories for Ian O’Reilly, whose own son, Tristan, died days after being born at Shrewsbury Hospital. 22 years later, his faith has been tested and refined by his grief, but is stronger for it
‘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
No-fault divorce would have ended my parents’ marriage 30 years ago. Today, they’re serving Jesus together
With her dad addicted to drugs and in the middle of a breakdown, Emma Fowle is convinced that a no-fault divorce would have ended her parent’s marriage. As it was, time – and the prayers of her church family – both played their part in its miraculous restoration
'It’s 6 months since my son took his life. The tsunami of grief has been brutal, but I still believe in a God of love'
Sharon Grenham-Thompson, also known as 'Glam Vicar', lost her teenage son Leo to suicide last year. Having been forced to face the unthinkable, Sharon explains how the devastating news has affected her faith
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
‘I walked from Cardiff to London to encourage ethnic minority young people into leadership’
Daud Irfan was six years old when his family fled persecution in Pakistan for a new life in Wales. Since then, he and his father have followed in the footsteps of their Methodist heroes, the Wesley brothers, by walking 170 miles to encourage diversity within the Church
CBBC’s Rhys Stephenson: ‘God has always opened doors for me’
The children’s TV presenter and Strictly star says he’ll never be ashamed to talk about his Christian faith
Graham Kendrick: ‘When you put the Word and the Spirit together, it’s absolute dynamite’
The father of modern worship music might be best known for penning ‘Shine, Jesus, shine’, but 50 years since the release of his first album, the singer-songwriter is going back to his storytelling roots
'800 people became Christians at the last Spring Harvest. Now is the time for the Church to come together again'
With just weeks to go, Spring Harvest's CEO tells us how the biggest Easter celebration on the Church’s calendar is set up to bring physical and spiritual refreshment
‘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
‘Cancer has caused my faith to soar’
When she was diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer, Fi Johnston wondered if her faith would stand the test
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
Bruxy Cavey confessed to an affair. But Christian leaders say his sin is worse
Bruxy Cavey has admitted infidelity and resigned from leading his Canadian megachurch. But other Christian leaders say his 'confession' does not go far enough. Heather Tomlinson looks at how attitudes are changing when it comes to what constitutes abuse in church settings.
‘The Bible is more important than bread to me now.’ Ukrainian Christians report miracles in the midst of war
Despite the awful situation in Kiev, God’s miracles are everywhere and people are hungry for the Word of God, says Anatoliy Raychynets, of Ukrainian Bible Society
Tim Montgomerie: The Christian Conservative on why he no longer supports Boris Johnson
The Christian Conservative commentator helped put Boris Johnson in Number 10. He tells Tim Farron why he can no longer back the PM
‘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
‘When the women arrive, you can see the sadness, the pain in them’
On International Women’s Day, hear about the women in Nigeria finding ways to forgive the men who abduct and rape them
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
‘My Christian son was abducted by a drug gang’
Michael’s mother was astonished to discover her polite, well-behaved teenage son, who attended church regularly, had been recruited by a drug gang
‘Everything mum told me was a lie’
Helen Naylor grew up thinking she was the daughter of two disabled parents, but a discovery in adulthood turned her world upside down
I’m a Christian with OCD. This is my story
From the age of 17, Sarah Clarkson’s imagination has been bombarded by unwanted and disturbing images. She explains how the love of God has been present, even while she has learned to live with OCD
I spent my childhood in a cult and went to prison for dealing drugs. But now I have freedom in Christ
Don't miss The Tattooed Saint's amazing testimony
Jon Tyson: ‘Praise God I’m alive during one of the greatest declines in the Western Church’
The straight-talking New York City-based pastor believes there’s a “tremendous opportunity” ahead of him to reach an increasingly secular world
Genelle Aldred: ‘Jesus wouldn’t fit in most of our churches’
The journalist and activist was just 19 when an unplanned pregnancy ended in the stillbirth of her daughter. It was an experience that still drives her to tackle inequality wherever she sees it
The Apprentice winner Tim Campbell on the worship song that changed his life
After losing £50,000, Lord Sugar's first apprentice Tim Campbell MBE was "broken". But then an encounter with God changed everything
My husband’s porn addiction nearly ruined our marriage. Now I’m helping others find freedom in Christ
Cat was a drug addict who found faith in Jesus and met her husband in recovery. But Dave’s use of pornography triggered previous trauma for Cat and nearly ended their marriage
'God's love doesn't depend on how I perform' Team GB Winter Olympian shares his Christian faith
The former British skeleton pro Adam Pengilly says his biggest lessons about God were learned not when he was winning, but when everything was going wrong
Children in Syria are freezing. Here’s what Christians can do to help
ine years after Samara Levy first started collecting aid for Syrian refugees, she returned to the country in the depths of winter. What she found there shocked her
How I overcame my fear of death
Do you secretly fear heaven won’t be as good as your life here and now? You’re not alone, says Mike Williams, but it was not this way for the early Church, and it need not be for us
Will Covid empty the pews?
Only a third of younger Christians intend to return to church regularly after the pandemic
'A vision from God lifted me from the pit of despair'
At just 22, a seizure left Erica Gomez bedridden and in constant pain. But throughout her trials, she’s learned to rely on the presence of a saviour who is always there
From drug-addicted bouncer to Jesus-loving youth worker
This self-described “tattooed freak” was addicted to cocaine and working as a nightclub bouncer when God kept putting Christians in his path…
Martin Smith: The former Delirious? frontman on how Covid-19 has changed him
Martin Smith opens up about his insecurities and explains how the pandemic has changed him for the better
Rachel Gardner: The ‘God Sex Lady’ on why the Church needs to get better at bedroom talk
Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Rachel Gardner says discussing sex may make us squirm, but not talking about it is far worse
An interview with Jesus
Jonathan Roumie reveals what it's like to play Jesus Christ in the hit TV series, The Chosen
How God miraculously protected us from Storm Arwen
The CEO of a Christian conference centre in the highlands of Scotland believes his team were supernaturally protected from one of the worst storms in decades
From rock musician to orthodox priest
Part of American rock band, Luxury, Chris Foley was a Christian musician who struggled to reconcile his faith with his creativity – until he discovered Eastern Orthodoxy. He tells his story of how he became an Orthodox priest
‘I met an angel outside my church on Christmas morning’
What I am about to tell you may sound unbelievable.
From satanism to saving grace
George Bearwood was immersed in the punk rock scene before getting caught up in satanism and becoming addicted to drink and drugs. A brush with death led to him getting clean before, one night, the voice of God called out to him
Greg Boyd: The progressive preacher on spiritual gifts, racism and Covid prophecy
Three years before the pandemic struck, Greg Boyd received an unusual prophetic word, which prompted him to move his church’s material online. We asked him about this seemingly unique warning about Covid-19, and how he feels about being labelled both ‘charismatic’ and ‘progressive’
‘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
Jeffrey Donaldson: NI’s longest-serving MP on the faith that sustains him
Sir Jeffrey Donaldson’s Christian faith has sustained him throughout his political career. But with an impending appointment to the nation’s highest political office, Northern Ireland’s longest-serving MP may still have his biggest challenge ahead
Why our church is knitting angels to bring a Christmas message of hope
Angels let us know that God is with us and reassure us that we need not fear. And that’s a message that our communities need now more than ever, says Sarah Wickett
Jayne Ozanne: The Christian campaigner explains why she wants to ban ‘hate prayer’
The Chair of Ban Conversion Therapy tells us why harmful prayer “must be banned, and will be banned”
‘There was such an atmosphere of joy and happiness’ says vicar who confirmed 59 people in one day
Despite having pre-pandemic congregations of less than 90, two churches in Wales recently held a bumper confirmation service that saw 59 people welcomed into their church family in one day
It’s -5C and we have no heating or hot water. But even in the storms I know God is with me
Following Storm Arwen 13,000 homes in the north of England remain without electricity. But as advent begins, Rev Mike Slade reflects on being thankful that God is with us, even when things are hard (and cold!)
Aled Jones: ‘I’m not a perfect Christian, but I don’t know what one of those is’
The chorister-turned-TV-presenter on counting his blessings and why he decided to try his hand at writing Christmas stories
‘Losing my husband to cancer led to us both finding Jesus’
Louise Blyth was just 33 when her husband, George, died of bowel cancer. For many people, experiencing such a tragedy would cause them to question the existence of a good and loving God. But for Louise and George, it was the beginning of a miraculous journey to faith
Carl Beech: 'There is endemic alcohol dependency in the Church'
The church planter explains why reaching the forgotten places of the UK has resulted in him giving up alcohol, and cancelling Sunday services
How Jesus rescued me from a life in porn
Brittni De La Mora was one of the porn industry’s biggest stars. Through a series of divine events, she began to encounter the love of God and now leads a ministry to the sex industry
Politics in the Church: Row breaks out over evangelical ‘elites’
Leaders are being accused of selling out their Christian beliefs in order to curry favour with the secular liberal majority
I would be imprisoned if I spoke about Jesus in Iran. Thank you for welcoming me to the UK
Ghazal is an Iranian convert to Christianity who recently received her ‘leave to remain’ from the Home Office. She explains why thousands of Iranians like her are turning to Christ
Franklin Graham is back. But does the UK want him?
Those who believe the nation needs to hear a strong gospel message about repentance and faith in Jesus are excited to welcome the evangelist. But others aren’t so sure…
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
Jordan Peterson’s daughter say she’s ‘found God’. Let’s keep praying for her
The 29 year old daughter of controversial psychologist Jordan Peterson is reading the Bible, praying and experiencing a peace she’s never felt before.
Meet the Scottish church leader who wants to decriminalise drugs
Scotland has the highest drug death rate in Europe. The new Moderator of the Church of Scotland, Rev Iain Greenshields, tells us that ending the criminalisation of drug possession could help solve the problem
Kate Forbes: The rising political star on glorifying God and aiming for excellence
When she stepped in to deliver the Scottish budget with just two hours’ notice, Kate Forbes was thrust into the political spotlight
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
I was a heroin addict but Jesus turned my life around. Now I'm helping others make a fresh start
Chaz was sexually abused as a child, addicted to heroin and has spent twelve years in prison. Yet thanks to a fresh start at a Christian housing project, he has turned his life around. Now, he’s doing the same for others
Losing faith in the BBC: Why the corporation’s religious coverage is coming under fire
A third of millennials have never even heard of Songs of Praise. And with the BBC still yet to appoint a new religion editor, many are wondering if the corporation has grown stale when it comes to Christianity…
Thomas Johnson: How a slave became the first Black student at Spurgeon’s College
Thomas Johnson was a slave who became one of the first Black men to study at Spurgeon’s College. This is his amazing story
A miracle saved my husband from malaria, but I am thanking God for a vaccine that will save millions more
Hours after she posted a desperate prayer request on Facebook, Becky Murray reported that her husband had made a miraculous recovery
Why I invited a 17 year-old Afghan refugee to live with my Christian family
Jesus extended hospitality to all, and so should we, says Dan Morris
‘The only thing I wanted to do with this fight is to give praise to Jesus Christ.’ The Christian faith of Alexander Usyk
The new world champion’s unashamed declaration of his love for God is an inspiration, says Arthur White
From guns to God: This former heroin dealer is on his way to becoming a vicar
Don’t miss Claud Jackson’s inspiring testimony
Giles Fraser: How the journalist-priest discovered his Jewish roots
The priest-in-charge at St Mary’s, Newington talks about losing his way and finding it again
‘I’m transgender and I love Jesus’
Chrissie Chevasutt battled gender dysphoria for decades. They explain how a dramatic encounter with the Holy Spirit during a transgender dressing appointment changed everything
Is this the most persecuted 31 year-old in Britain?
Joshua Sutcliffe has lost his job twice, and been caught up in media storms over his Christian views on sexuality, gender and other religions
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
JLS singer JB Gill on the difference his Christian faith makes
The pop star sold more than 10 million records while in the boy band JLS. But he gave it all up to become a farmer and Songs of Praise presenter. Sam Hailes finds out why
‘It’s not “religious” its real’ - The open air Prayer Station changing Crewe’s estates
A series of ‘delightfully informal’ Christian gatherings are having a profound effect in Crewe
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.’
‘My church didn’t know what to do with me’ - Libby’s transgender story
During her teenage years Libby Littlewood pleaded with God to make her ‘feel like a girl’. With her prayers seemingly unanswered, she transitioned to live as a man aged 17, before being convicted by God to de-transition in her early twenties. Here’s her story in full
How the kindness of a local vicar and the song ‘Blessed be your name’ brought me back to Jesus
Charmaine Yip shares her remarkable testimony of healing, salvation and what inspired her to write an award-winning sermon
‘I went to prison for gift aid fraud’
Dr Mohammed Johnson was pastoring a successful church in Luton when he was arrested for fraudulently claiming £150,000 in gift aid. It was the start of a nightmare that would ultimately end with him being sentenced to four years in a maximum security prison
Explained: Why tensions are running high in the CofE’s church planting row
One group wants to turn the established Church upside down in an effort to halt its decline. But the other faction feel just as strongly that doing so could obliterate what is most important about the Church of England
Jennifer Hudson: ‘My Christian faith couldn’t be any stronger’
EXCLUSIVE: As J-Hud portrays the Queen of Soul on the big screen, she opens up about faith, music and the meaning of grace
What my worst dating fail taught me about hearing God
Daniel Hamlin explains what an awkward moment on a first date taught him about sacrifice and obedience
As Plymouth grieves its mass shooting, the reassuring presence of local churches is making a difference
The ability of local churches to respond immediately and be there for the long term has been vital in helping communities in Plymouth deal with grief. Emma Fowle reports
‘God is a big part of my life and always will be’ - the Christian faith of West End star Alexandra Burke
Since winning The X Factor in 2008 Alexandra Burke has released hit singles, starred in Strictly Come Dancing and taken her talents to the West End. As theatres re-open after an 18 month hiatus, it seems her Christian faith is as strong as ever
I thought a quiet home would make me calm. But God’s peace doesn’t require silence
Due to a traumatic childhood, noise has always made Mandy Gill anxious. But, as a Christian, she is learning that true peace comes not from the home we live in, or the quiet around us, but from somewhere else
Explained: Why Hillsong’s Brian Houston has been charged with covering up sex abuse
22 years ago, Brian Houston dismissed his father from church leadership, after Frank Houston admitted sexually abusing a boy. But Australian police allege Brian failed to report the abuse, and have charged him with knowingly concealing information relating to child sexual offences. Marcus Jones explains more
The Christian faith of Mumsnet co-founder Carrie Longton
The co-founder of Mumsnet shares her insights on faith, leadership and work-life balance
‘We have overcome’ The Fijian Rugby Olympic legends singing praises to God
After receiving their gold medals at Tokyo 2020, the Fijian Rugby team sang, “We have overcome, by the blood of the lamb”. Paul Kerensa reports
‘I used to be quite literal about my faith. It’s much messier now’ - Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol
The Mayor of Bristol tells Sam Hailes how the parable of the talents is inspiring him to fight poverty, and why he no longer views doubt as a dirty word
‘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
‘God is the one who directs my life’ – the Christian faith of Simone Biles
Simone Biles’ Christian faith has seen her through the highs of sporting success and the lows of the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal. And they’ll see her through this too, says Lauren Windle
'God told me to home educate my child' - why one Christian parent joined the growing ranks of home schoolers
The number of children being educated at home has risen by 75% this academic year, with "Covid anxiety" being listed among the reasons. Megan Wilkie, who recently took her daughter out of school, tells us about the highs and lows of being a Christian home educator
Christine Caine: The prolific evangelist and activist isn’t slowing down yet
There is an honesty about Christine Caine that is rare in high-profile leaders. When the bestselling author, internationally acclaimed speaker and leader of multiple international organisations appears on our morning Zoom call, she is straight off the treadmill, laughing and apologising for her appearance in a sorry-not-sorry way that epitomises ...
From faith to unbelief…and back again
Jim Thring became a Christian as a young adult. He then lost his faith and spent nearly ten years as a committed atheist. He explains what brought him back
White working class boys are often left behind. But my story proves there is hope in Jesus
In the week that MPs said white working class pupils have been failed by decades of neglect in England’s education system, Carleton Raisbeck, 29, shares his story: from drugs, eating disorders and hopelessness to a new life in Christ
Meet the viral vicar who reaches millions on TikTok
When Rev Anne Beverley started making TikTok vidoes for the seven young people in her church, she did not expect to become an internet sensation
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.
- Issues
- Topics A-Z
- Writers A-Z
- © 2023 Premier Christianity
Site powered by Webvision Cloud