News

The little-known prayers written by Jane Austen
It is now 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen whose books and their many screen adaptations are beloved around the world. Not many people know that she was a devout Christian who also wrote devotional prayers. This is the story …

The Anglican worldview of Jane Austen’s life and novels
16 December 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of novelist Jane Austen, who was born in southern England in 1775. Her novels are steeped in biblical analogy and practical theology. This is the story…

Almost half of UK adults plan to attend church this Christmas, new poll finds
Churches across the UK are expecting fuller pews this Christmas, as new research suggests a significant rise in the number of people planning to attend services and church-run events over the festive season.

ACNA panel recommends archbishop stand trial
The Board of Inquiry issued a short statement on Friday stating that there was “probable cause to present” ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood “for trial for violation of Canon 2 of this Title.”

Controversial US bishop to give BBC Christmas message
The BBC has invited Bishop Mariann Budde, the US bishop who challenged President Donald Trump at an inauguration service in January, to give a Christmas message.

Australian church leaders stand in solidarity with Jewish community after Bondi Beach terrorist attack
Christian leaders in Australia have expressed their solidarity with the country's grief-stricken Jewish community after a deadly terrorist attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday night.

The little-known history of the X in Xmas
Many Christians worry that writing “Xmas” crosses Christ out of Christmas, but the story of the X is an ancient, deeply rooted Christian custom. This is the story ….

Large crowds join Tommy Robinson's Christmas carol service
The carol service passed off peacefully despite fears to the contrary.

Who was the historical King Herod?
At Christmas time we read about King Herod who ruled Judea at the time of Jesus’s birth, and he is the villain of many Nativity plays. But King Herod was a real historical character. This is the story …

Christmas evangelistic campaign gets underway
The aim is to reach two million people with the gospel.

New report uncovers spiritual priorities for Gen Z
Authenticity is key for Generation Z.

Ancient wall with possible King Herod link uncovered in Jerusalem
Jerusalem has been besieged many times in its long history.

US religious life stabilises, but polling finds no youth revival
Pew’s latest findings indicate that key measures of religious life — including religious affiliation, daily prayer, the importance of religion, and regular attendance at services — have held broadly steady since around 2020.

Scottish politicians recognise work of offshore industry chaplains
The offshore oil and gas industry can sometimes turn deadly.

Pakistani Christian gives testimony of persecution in front of King Charles
Open Doors ranks Pakistan the 8th worst persecutor of Christians worldwide.

On commitment
Jewish academic and Hebrew scholar Irene Lancaster considers what commitment means in Judaism.