In Saudi Arabia, a nation historically closed to the Gospel, Christianity is growing faster than the global average. Despite strict bans on evangelism and the threat of severe punishment, including execution for apostasy, underground churches thrive, with some estimating Christians could represent up to 10% of the population. Oswaldo Magdangal, who pastored an underground church for eleven years, reports remarkable growth, particularly among younger Saudis. The secret congregations include native Saudi believers, with some becoming pastors. Recent reforms under Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman have softened the kingdom's religious rigidity, including curbing the religious police and allowing Bible printing. Testimonies like Ahmed Joktan’s, who encountered Jesus in a dream, and the bravery of Christian tentmakers and underground leaders highlight the Spirit’s work in this challenging environment. Revival stirs as Christians boldly share their faith, while global prayers continue to support this growth. Oswaldo’s own story of near execution in 1992 underscores the resilience of faith under persecution, inspiring hope for the church’s future.
Just five months after Labour’s election victory, a petition demanding a fresh general election has reached nearly 2.8 million signatures, triggering a parliamentary debate set for 6 January. The petition accuses the Labour government of breaking campaign promises. High-profile figures like actor Michael Caine and entrepreneur Elon Musk have fuelled the petition’s momentum. Despite claims of possible non-UK signatories, the House of Commons is confident the majority are legitimate British citizens or residents. Keir Starmer dismissed calls for a new election, attributing dissatisfaction to tough budget decisions, such as inheritance tax changes, loss of winter fuel payments for pensioners, and new VAT on private school fees. He emphasised his focus on governance, stating, 'That isn’t how our system works’. The debate will test the Government’s response to public discontent and its ability to regain voter trust amidst growing pressure.
Gun crime in London rises by 30%
28 Nov 2024
Gun crime in London has surged by nearly 30%, impacting areas once considered safe. The recent shooting of an eight-year-old girl in Ladbroke Grove highlights the escalating violence linked to gang rivalries. Community leaders attribute the rise to recently released prisoners returning to their communities with unresolved conflicts. High-crime areas are seeing younger individuals recruited into gang activities, including carrying weapons. The surge in gun-related incidents has placed immense pressure on Scotland Yard, which faces severe budget cuts of £450 million, potentially reducing the police force by two thousand officers. Mayor Sadiq Khan emphasises efforts like the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), which has funded 350,000 opportunities for youth and contributed to a reduction in homicides and stabbings. Initiatives such as youth worker programmes in hospitals and police custody aim to prevent reoffending and exploitation. Organisations like The Children’s Society are working to protect vulnerable children through education, awareness campaigns, and collaborative efforts to tackle the root causes of violence, offering hope for a safer future.
Mystery drones over US air bases in England
28 Nov 2024
Sixty British troops have joined the United States Air Force (USAF) to investigate a series of unidentified drones spotted flying over three bases in Suffolk and Norfolk. The incidents have raised concerns about security, although the drones have not been deemed hostile. The bases play crucial roles in US military operations. USAF has confirmed multiple sightings during nighttime hours, but no source or intent has been identified. The Ministry of Defence emphasised robust security measures at all defence sites, and both British and US authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of personnel and infrastructure. Efforts to determine the origin and purpose of the drones continue.
MPs have overwhelmingly backed a new Tobacco and Vapes bill aimed at phasing out smoking by making it illegal for anyone aged fifteen or younger today to ever purchase cigarettes. Originally proposed by the Conservatives, the bill was advanced by Labour and passed its first Commons vote with a majority of 415 to 47. It also seeks to curb youth vaping through advertising bans, packaging restrictions, and flavour limitations. Health secretary Wes Streeting described it as a landmark public health intervention aimed at preventing addiction, reducing NHS pressures, and fostering a healthier population. Despite broad support, some MPs, including Kemi Badenoch and Suella Braverman, opposed the bill, citing concerns over civil liberties. Others questioned the practicality of age-based restrictions and the potential expansion of outdoor smoking bans. Proponents argue the measures address tobacco's uniquely harmful and addictive nature, aiming to create a smoke-free generation and protect youth from nicotine addiction. Further scrutiny in Parliament is expected before the bill becomes law.
Britain's 'spiritual desert' and obesity crisis
28 Nov 2024
Former MP Jacob Rees-Mogg has addressed Boris Johnson’s claim linking Britain’s obesity crisis to the Church of England’s focus on anti-colonialism. He noted the nation’s obesity issues but stopped short of directly blaming the Church. Johnson had argued that Britons are 'gorging themselves' on consumerism, likening it to 'living bread' but detached from spiritual nourishment, referencing Matthew 4:4. Rees-Mogg described Johnson’s comments as highlighting a deeper issue: Britain’s spiritual void. One comment was that Johnson’s analysis was an 'imaginative exercise' rather than a causal connection. Both men agreed that mainline denominations are not adequately addressing this spiritual hunger. Rees-Mogg emphasized the need for churches to proclaim Christ’s love more fervently to fill the void. This discussion sheds light on the perceived spiritual and moral challenges facing the UK, which may lead churches to re-evaluate their role in addressing societal needs.
Liz Hatton, a 17-year-old photographer from Harrogate, has died after a courageous battle with a rare cancer (sarcoma). Despite her terminal diagnosis, Liz inspired the nation by completing an ambitious photography bucket list, capturing moments like a royal investiture and a West End musical. Her work gained recognition when she met the Princess of Wales, who invited her to Windsor Castle to photograph an event and bonded with her over their shared love of photography. Liz's resilience and creativity shone as she continued working despite immense physical pain, hosting a photography exhibition shortly before her passing. Her family remembers her as a brave and compassionate young woman who lived fully in her final months. A Just Giving page has been established in her memory to fund research into her rare cancer. Liz’s story and photographs remain a powerful legacy, inspiring hope and awareness about sarcoma.
The landmark trial in Avignon, involving the systematic drugging and rape of Gisèle Pelicot by 49 men orchestrated by her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot, has gripped the nation. The prosecution has sought a twenty-year sentence for Pelicot, who admitted to facilitating the assaults over nearly a decade, and 10-18 years for most co-defendants. The case has sparked national debates on consent, male violence, and systemic legal shortcomings. Prosecutors have highlighted Pelicot’s bravery in waiving her anonymity and allowing graphic evidence to be shown, confronting societal shame surrounding sexual violence. Feminist activists have rallied in support, condemning the accused and demanding justice. Defence lawyers, however, argue that many defendants were misled by Pelicot’s claims of his wife's consent. The trial has renewed calls for legal reforms, and Michel Barnier’s government has pledged new measures to combat violence against women. One commentator said: ‘This trial has affected every one of us. What have we done wrong as a society to produce men who are capable of such inhumane behaviour?’