India: revival hits Sikhs in Punjab
16 Jan 2025
Christianity is growing exponentially in Punjab, with Pentecostal churches leading a revival among Sikhs. This movement incorporates Punjabi culture by allowing converts to retain their traditional names and clothes while adopting Christian faith, creating a smoother and more relatable transition. Pentecostal churches are similar to Sikh places of worship, with familiar worship practices like sitting on the floor and singing, drawing many to the faith. The revival’s growth stems from dynamic leaders like Pastor Ankur Narula, whose church in Jalandhar has over 130 churches and 2.6 million YouTube subscribers. Testimonies of healing, miracles, and divine visions fuel conversions, and there are many compelling stories of transformation through faith. While traditional churches remain stagnant, Pentecostal churches resonate with the Punjabi longing for connection with God, hope, and healing, leading to a remarkable spiritual awakening.
Born into poverty in Lebanon, George El Khoury pursued wealth, power, and pleasure, becoming a successful businessman. As the founder of five international banks, he amassed riches, lived in luxury, and indulged in a hedonistic lifestyle. Despite his success, George felt unfulfilled and began questioning life’s meaning, especially after surviving a plane crash over Paris. The experience left him shaken but not yet transformed. The turning point came when a blackmail threat from a former girlfriend jeopardised his career and reputation. At his son’s urging, George prayed to Jesus Christ, surrendering his life and vowing to change. Miraculously, the blackmail was withdrawn, and George experienced a profound sense of peace and joy. He gave his life to Christ, left his sinful lifestyle, and reconciled with his ex-wife after 31 years of divorce. Now, he ministers the gospel in Europe, telling how Jesus redeemed and restored his life, even returning what sin had stolen.
A Royal College of Nursing (RCN) report has revealed shocking conditions in NHS hospitals. Based on testimony from over 5,000 nursing staff, the 460-page document highlights widespread 'corridor care' which is now normal in England's hospitals. The report includes alarming accounts: patients soiling themselves due to lack of proper facilities, cardiac arrests in corridors without essential equipment, and elderly patients enduring inhumane conditions. Some patients have died unnoticed in corridors or faced fatal consequences from equipment shortages. Nurses describe the system as 'soul-destroying' and worse than the Covid crisis. The RCN chief executive called the findings 'harrowing,' emphasising the dangerous normalisation of inadequate care. While the chief nursing officer acknowledged the pressures, he stated the NHS remains committed to improving urgent and emergency care to prevent such tragedies. This report underscores the urgent need for systemic reform in healthcare services. See
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has called on the UK to negotiate a new customs union with the EU by 2030, arguing it is the 'single biggest thing' the country can do to strengthen its economy. In his first major speech of the year, he urged the Government to replace the Conservative-brokered Brexit deal with one allowing freer movement of goods between Britain and the EU. He claims this approach would enable the UK to negotiate with a second Trump administration from a position of strength, reducing reliance on the US. He criticised Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage for prioritising US interests over Britain’s. Keir Starmer has pledged to deepen ties with the EU but has ruled out rejoining the customs union. The Government rejected Davey’s proposal, emphasising its commitment to avoid reopening Brexit divisions. Davey maintains that rebuilding ties with Europe is crucial for economic stability and security.
Keir Starmer has made a surprise visit to Kyiv to sign a 100-year partnership with Ukraine, affirming Britain’s steadfast support amid ongoing conflict with Russia. He met Volodymyr Zelensky, laid a wreath for fallen soldiers, and visited a burns hospital. The partnership includes bolstering military collaboration on maritime security in the Baltic, Black, and Azov seas. It also reflects growing European concerns about Donald Trump’s upcoming presidency, with fears that his administration may pressure Ukraine into an unjust settlement with Russia. Ukraine depends heavily on US military aid, but Trump has expressed reluctance to continue funding the war. Starmer aims to position Ukraine for strength in negotiations, aligning with Zelensky’s willingness to discuss temporary territorial concessions for peace.
Tahjin Sommersall, 18, has been charged with the murder of Michelle Sadio, 44, who was fatally shot outside a church in Harlesden, London, on December 14. The shooting occurred during a wake for 80-year-old Dianne Boatong, with mourners, including children, gathered outside. A dark Kia pulled up and shots were fired randomly into the crowd: then the car fled and was later found burned in Wembley Park. Michelle died at the scene, while two other victims sustained injuries but survived. Prosecutors have linked the attack to an ongoing gang dispute. Sommersall has been remanded in custody, with a plea hearing scheduled for April and a trial in October. Five additional suspects have been arrested, and police are continuing to support the victim’s family as the investigation unfolds.
Britain’s gas storage levels have dropped to 'concerningly low' levels, with less than a week of demand available, warns Centrica, the operator of the largest gas storage site. Plunging temperatures and high reliance on gas-fired power, which accounted for 53% of UK electricity generation last week, have strained supplies. The early onset of winter and reduced wind power generation have further exacerbated the situation. Unlike Europe, which maintains mandatory gas storage targets, the UK relies on diverse gas sources, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from the US and pipelines from Norway. The Labour government remains focused on transitioning to renewable energy, with investments in clean energy projects. Despite concerns, the department for energy has given assurances that the UK’s energy system is resilient. However, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and sanctions on Russian gas continue to influence global prices, leaving households vulnerable to further energy cost increases.
Former archbishop joins climate call to PM
16 Jan 2025
Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, has joined over two dozen faith leaders urging Keir Starmer to back the Climate and Nature (CAN) Bill. The bill, set for a parliamentary vote on 24 January, seeks stronger environmental protections and accelerated carbon reduction targets. Over 200 MPs have already expressed support. In an open letter organised by the campaign group Zero Hour, the faith leaders appealed to the government to act responsibly, citing the 'golden rule' shared by all faiths: treat others as you wish to be treated. They emphasised Britain’s responsibility to address the global impacts of its actions. The letter described the CAN Bill as essential for improving lives in the UK and globally. It called on the Government to demonstrate leadership by integrating climate and nature action into its policies and setting an example for the world. The letter, delivered to Downing Street, urged seizing this moment as an opportunity for meaningful change.