News

Orthodox celebrate 'holy fire' Easter ritual

Thousands of Orthodox Christians took part in the holy fire ritual of Easter Week on Saturday. Believers gathered at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, where Jesus is believed to have been crucified and buried, each carrying torches and candles symbolising the 33 years of Jesus’ life.

Pope to pray at Italian earthquake zone

Pope Benedict XVI is to visit the town of L’Aquila, which was hit by a devastating earthquake on March 6.

Kirk magazine criticises traditionalists on homosexuality

The official magazine of the Church of Scotland has criticised traditionalists who use the Bible to justify a position against homosexual practice.

US journalist convicted of spying in Iran

An American journalist detained in Iran has been convicted of spying and sentenced to eight years in prison, her lawyer reported Saturday.

Concern for Cuban pastor facing prison

A persecution watchdog has called into question charges of “illicit economic activity and falsification of documents” brought against a Cuban pastor.

Oil paintings to inspire deeper walk with Christ

A contemporary artist is hoping a new resource based on her paintings of Christ will help people new and old to the faith to deepen their understanding of God.

India's Christians cast their votes amid tight security

Over 3,000 Christians in Kandhamal relief camps were able to cast their votes peacefully in the first phase of polling for the parliamentary and assembly seats in Orissa which got underway last Thursday.

World Vision gives voice to Lebanon’s children

World Vision has helped children in Lebanon share their hopes and dreams with the wider world through the publication of new book ‘From a Child’s Point of View’.

CeCe Winans to be inducted into Music City Walk of Fame

Award-winning Gospel music artist CeCe Winans will be among the newest inductees to the Music City Walk of Fame and be recognised officially during an induction ceremony this Sunday.

Nazir-Ali denies being 'sectarian'

The Dean of Southwark has criticised the outgoing Bishop of Rochester, the Rt Rev Michael Nazir-Ali, of placing himself “outside of full communion” with the Anglican Church.

Sri Lankan Christians facing death threats

Release International has received reports of death threats against a Christian pastor and intimidation from Buddhists and Hindus aimed at preventing worship services from taking place.

Luis Palau coming to Scottish Highlands

Churches in the Scottish Highlands are getting ready to welcome world renowned evangelist Luis Palau for the most significant outreach in the region since the Lewis Revival sixty years ago.

Rising to new heights for the vulnerable

What motivates a teenager and a pensioner to rise to new heights, even the top of Mount Sinai?

YMCA raises funds for homeless young people

YMCA England has launched a new innovative campaign to provide accommodation for more young homeless people.

Greeks say Easter important for national identity

As many as 83.2 per cent of the population in Greece believe Easter is extremely important for keeping the country’s national identity, a recent survey has revealed.

Cardinal to highlight plight of persecuted Christians

Scotland’s Cardinal Keith O’Brien will be guest of honour and preacher at an event in support of people who suffer for their Christian faith.