News

Church of England bishops were right to halt same-sex blessing plans - Bishop of Winchester
The Bishop of Winchester has defended the recent decision of the House of Bishops to pause plans to introduce standalone same-sex blessing services.

Rev Dr Richard Turnbull: former principal of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford
Richard Turnbull brought an unusual combination of skills to his life’s work. He died on 26 November, aged 65, having been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Church-run shop volunteers receive prestigious award for decades of service
The local area suffered significantly after the closure of the Ravenscraig Steel Works.

CoE pioneers new church in Bournemouth housing estate
“There is a lot of need but there’s a beautiful community here as well, and there are people that are already making such a difference," said Rev Haycock, who is helping to plant the church.

Sudanese Archbishop warns of silent catastrophe as civil war intensifies
A senior Sudanese church leader has issued an urgent appeal for global action, warning that Sudan’s escalating civil war has created one of the world’s most overlooked humanitarian disasters.

The three Christian meanings of Advent
The great Cistercian monk St Bernard of Clairvaux spoke of Advent in three distinct senses, and Christian writers and sermons have echoed his insight down the centuries. This the story …

Burnout and isolation are common problems for Church of England clergy - report
Clergy described burnout, feelings of isolation, diminished morale, and ongoing financial strain.

Evangelical Alliance updates Christian course for South Asian seekers
The Evangelical Alliance (EA) has announced the launch of a new set of resources aimed at introducing the gospel to people of South Asian heritage.

Samaritan’s Purse plane hijacked; suspect in custody
A Samaritan's Purse plane carrying aid to South Sudan was hijacked earlier this week. A suspect has been detained, and no serious injuries are being reported.

Thousands attend launch of nationwide Christmas evangelistic campaign at Royal Albert Hall
A major evangelistic outreach for the Christmas season formally got underway this week at the Royal Albert Hall.

The bishop who became Santa Claus
Everybody knows Santa Claus. But how many people know the inspiration for the jolly Father Christmas was in fact a bishop whose courage, generosity, and compassion shaped centuries of Christian practice?

Many Western Christians misunderstand the purpose of faith, says NT Wright
Instead of seeing Christianity as the story of God renewing the whole cosmos — Heaven and Earth united — they have been taught to think of salvation primarily as a private escape plan: the soul departing for Heaven when the body dies.

Princess of Wales to lead Westminster Abbey carol service, celebrating kindness and community
This evening, the Princess of Wales, Catherine, is set to revisit Westminster Abbey to preside over her fifth Together at Christmas carol service - a seasonal gathering that places acts of kindness and community at the heart of its celebrations.

Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running
Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.