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Articles by Anna Rees
Coventry welcomes first female Bishop
Coventry Cathedral has welcomed its first female bishop, the Right Revd Sophie Jelley. Bishop Jelley previously served as Bishop of Doncaster. On Saturday, she was installed during a special service, taking on the spiritual leadership of 201 parishes across Coventry and Warwickshire. The service was attended MPs, councillors and business leaders. It began with Bishop Jelley being welcomed by three school pupils from the diocese, symbolising the Church’s connection with the next generation.
Donald Trump says he’d like to be the next Pope
Donald Trump has told a reporter that he would like to be the next Pope. When boarding Marine One en route to Michigan, the president was asked who he would like to see elected to the papal seat. “As Pope? I’d like to be the next Pope. That’d be my number one choice,” Trump said. “No, I don’t know," he joked, "I have no preference.
Process for choosing the next Archbishop of Canterbury ‘Confusing’ says Evangelical Council member
By Anna Rees PREMIER CHRISTIAN NEWS March 11, 2025 A member of the Church of England Evangelical Council (CEEC) has criticised the process of choosing the next Archbishop of Canterbury, branding it “confusing” and “lacking in transparency”. Revd Dr Andrew Goddard raised his concerns, after the General Synod voted against changes to the decision-making process of the Crown Nominations Commission, submitted by the House of Bishops.
Franklin Graham: ‘Trump didn’t intentionally snub the Bible during inauguration oath’
There wasn’t time to get the Bible to President Trump before he was sworn in, says Rev Franklin Graham in a frank interview with Premier. And yes, Trump feels God saved him for a purpose. But if America is to be great again, its people must to turn back to Jesus, he says Just a few minutes before Donald Trump was sworn in as America’s 47th head of state at the Capitol Rotunda, Rev Franklin Graham had the honor of praying for the president, his family and his team.
Christian college forces students to remove 'offensive' cross necklaces
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Archbishop of Canterbury warns of 'right to die' becoming 'duty to die' under assisted dying bill - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Trigger warnings of Christian themes put on works of Chaucer
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Christian satire site 'The Babylon Bee' sues California over censorship laws
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
American church is 'confronting crisis of faith' in democracy, say 200 Christian leaders
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
One in six schools failing to teach RE to year 11, findings show
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Pope provokes religious pluralism backlash after saying 'all paths lead to God' - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Pope weighs in on US election, branding Harris and Trump 'against life'
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Archbishop of Canterbury meets Palestinian Christians at Lambeth Palace
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Young boys charged with arson of County Antrim church
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
'God was always there for me' says missionary held hostage by Al-Qaeda for seven years
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Father imprisoned in Egypt for Christian comments declares hunger strike
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Worcester Cathedral searches for past choir members to mark 150th anniversary
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Jeff Bezos meets the Pope with partner Lauren Sanchez
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Timothy Dudley-Smith, hymnist and bishop, dies at 97
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Elderly vicar assaulted while praying for protestors in Middlesborough, pastor says
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
No Wi-Fi, no tithe: Rural churches struggle to use contactless donations
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Taylor Swift shares families' grief over Southport stabbings - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
'I asked God to show my heart': Adam Peaty opens up about faith after Olympic final
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
‘Faith is a verb’: What does Kamala Harris think about God?
Democrats are lining up to back Vice President Kamala Harris as the new challenger for the White House. Harris is the first female and first African American and Asian American Vice President of the United States. She is married to Douglas Emhoff, a Jewish American lawyer. As a daughter of immigrant parents, Harris was raised with both Baptist and Hindu influences. Young Kamala and her sister Maya were frequently taken to Oakland’s 23rd Avenue Church of God by a downstairs neighbour, Regina Shelton.
The ‘Demonstrator Churches’ tackling Net Zero
In a bid to reach net zero, 100 Church of England churches, which are currently the worst-performing for carbon efficiency, will have access to £5.2 million in grants, to become more eco-friendly. Solar panels, heat pumps, insulation, and infrared heating systems are some of the key upgrades needed to transform older, vacuous buildings. The Demonstrator Churches project encompasses churches from a variety of communities.
Christian Aid calls for government ban on goods from Israel-occupied territories - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
International development charity Christian Aid has called on the UK government to immediately ban all goods originating from illegal Israeli settlements, following the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) ruling that Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories breaches international law.
King Charles and Greta Thunberg star in church ‘Eco Angels’ trail
Norfolk churches will host King Charles, Greta Thunberg and a womble this summer… in cardboard form. The ‘Eco Angels’ trail is a project by Norfolk schoolchildren and the Diocese of Norwich. 12 sculptures have been crafted from lampshades, cardboard and even living materials such as willow, are designed to celebrate those who have campaigned to protect the environment.
School absence fines don’t work, says Christian teacher
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Mike Pilavachi and Andy Croft book contracts axed by Christian publisher
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
'Let the people see change': Christian organisations respond to the King's Speech
The King has outlined the new Labour government’s priorities in the King's Speech. There were 40 bills in total, including plans to build more houses and infrastructure, nationalise the railways, give working people what Starmer calls a 'new deal', and to ensure cleaner water. Also included is a 'no loopholes' ban on conversion therapy. Here’s how major Christian organisations reacted to the pledges: Trussell Trust The Trussel Trust is responsible for over 1300 foodbanks in the UK.
Rio’s ‘narco-pentecostal’ gangs accused of Catholic crackdown
Three Catholic places of worship in Álvaro Malaquias Santa Rosa, Rio, have reportedly been shut down by a drug boss. Yet the gun-wielding, cocaine-smuggling gang responsible are also adorned with evangelical tattoos, and their leader’s nickname is derived from the ichthys ‘Jesus’ fish. Peixão (Big Fish) has been dubbed an “evangelical drug boss”, according to The Guardian. The favela he rules is known as the Complexo de Israel, where a neon Star of David glows over the brick rooftops at night.
Who is JD Vance? Trump's 'angry atheist'-turned-Catholic running mate
JD Vance, a 39-year-old Republican senator from Ohio, has been announced as Donald Trump’s running mate. Once professing himself to be a 'never Trumper’, the Ivy League-educated senator has publicly changed his mind on religion, too. Formerly an atheist, Vance now defines himself in his X bio as “Christian, husband, dad. US Senator for Ohio." In 2019, he was baptised into the Catholic Church after many years grappling with organised religion.
'Thank God Trump is alive': Christian leaders respond to assassination attempt on former President
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
CofE appoints ‘overseers' for churches who disagree with bishops on same-sex blessings
The Church of England’s Evangelical Council has commissioned its first set of overseers, a group of Honorary Assistant Bishops and other clergy members who will offer “informal oversight” to those who feel they can no longer be 'guided' by their bishop due to their stance on the blessings of same-sex relationships. The first 20 overseers were commissioned in a service at All Souls Langham Place, London. It includes charismatics and conservatives, egalitarians and complementarians.
Christians imprisoned in Cuban protests must be released, says charity
Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) has called for the liberation of all political prisoners in Cuba, three years on from mass protests in the country. CSW has also called for human rights reforms, particularly regarding freedom of religion or belief. Among those imprisoned for protesting were Christians, including pastors. Several faith leaders reported receiving formal notifications from Cuban authorities instructing them not to leave their homes from the 11th to 12th of July.
New Chief Executive appointed at UCCF
Matt Lillicrap has been appointed as the new head of the Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship (UCCF). UCCF describe Matt as “passionate about equipping and supporting Christian Union students”. Previously, Lillicrap was the pastor of Hope Community Church, Cambridge, where he and his wife Anika live with their six children. Raised in Kent, Lillicrap came to faith as a teenager. After studying medicine in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, he worked as a doctor in hospitals across North East England.
School evangelism initiative faces backlash from National Secular Society
On the 2nd July, the Church of England announced its ‘Flourish’ initiative, which aims to evangelise to schools and colleges nationwide across 12 dioceses, including ‘nonreligious’ schools. It comprises of a two-year scheme which seeks to create 40 new worshipping communities. Schools will work with local parishes to create extra-curricular groups so that pupils can find out more about Christianity, and worship God.
South London church investigated over £1 million given to Dubai property developer
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
'Faith without works is dead': Biden takes to the pulpit - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
President Joe Biden has told a congregation in his home state of Philadelphia that “faith without works is dead.” Days after saying that “only the Lord almighty” could pluck him from the presidential race, Biden delivered a sermon at Mount Airy Church of God. “I used to go to 7:30 mass at my church, and then I would show up Reverend Beaman’s — now Bishop Beaman - church - AME church in Wilmington,” the incumbent said.
11 Christians jailed in Vietnam go missing - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
A group of 11 Vietnamese Christians arrested for their faith are now missing, according to anti-persecution organisation International Christian Concern. The group consists of Protestants and five Catholics, who were sentenced between 2011 and 2016 to a total of 90 years and eight months. The protestants hail from the Degar people, an indigenous group living in Vietnam's Central Highlands.
Poverty must be new government's priority, 200 organisations including churches tell Starmer - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you. Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce.
Christian Aid reaffirms Methodist Church partnership
International development organisation Christian Aid and the Methodist Church in Britain have reaffirmed their dedication to combating global injustice and poverty together, at the annual Methodist Conference. The Methodist Church is the fourth largest Christian denomination in Britain and has been a founding partner of Christian Aid since it began in 1945. Both entities share a profound commitment to justice, peace, and the inherent dignity of every person.
London teen becomes first millennial 'gamer' saint
A London-born Italian teenager, known as "God's Influencer", has been canonised by the Vatican as the first ever 'millennial saint'. Carlo Acutis died in 2006, aged 17, after a battle with leukaemia. Born in London to a Catholic family, Carlo expressed a strong faith at an early age, asking to receive his first communion aged seven. The Acutis family then moved to Milan, where Carlo attended mass and received communion daily.
London teen becomes first millennial 'gamer' saint
A London-born Italian teenager, known as "God's Influencer", has been canonised by the Vatican as the first ever 'millennial saint'. Carlo Acutis died in 2006, aged 17, after a battle with leukaemia. Born in London to a Catholic family, Carlo expressed a strong faith at an early age, asking to receive his first communion aged seven. The Acutis family then moved to Milan, where Carlo attended mass and received communion daily.
‘Warrior training’: US congregations arming themselves - Premier Christian News | Headlines, Breaking News, Comment & Analysis
Churchgoers across America are taking up arms before Sunday services, and signing up for "warrior training", citing concerns about attacks on places of worship. Kris Moloney has run Sheepdog Church Security since 2014. With a background in military and law enforcement, he began managing a safety team at his church in Minnesota. Since then, more than 6,000 church members across the US have taken part in his Christian-based firearms training.
Oxfordshire churches warned to heighten security after break-ins
Churches in Oxfordshire are being advised to enhance their security, following a spate of break-ins across the UK. Specialist church building insurer Ecclesiastical issued the warning, after a surge in thefts. The insurance company recommended measures such as improving lighting, installing security alarms and CCTV, keeping doors and windows locked when not in use, and reporting any suspicious activity or criminal damage.
‘I never imagined this in our country’: Indian Christians jailed as persecution builds
Several Christians have been jailed in northern India after being accused of 'conversion'. Pastor Sanjay Kumar and his wife, Sunita Devi, were among the 13 arrested. A Christian leader – who remains anonymous – told UCA News that they had been attending house prayer meetings when police arrived. The authorities had reportedly been alerted by "local villagers suspecting conversion activities", according to the outlet.
'God is blowing my mind': Reports of signs and wonders breaking out among Gen Z
Labelled as the , accounts of the Holy Spirit breaking out among Gen Z suggest they're headed for revival. In February 2023, the 'two stoplight town' university of Asbury, Kentucky, experienced an outpouring of the Holy Spirit lasting 16 days. What began as a normal Wednesday morning chapel service turned into round-the-clock prayer and worship, as students felt unable to pull away from the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Megachurch pastor axed from TV network amid abuse allegations
One of the largest global Christian broadcasters, Daystar Television Network, has removed all content featuring megachurch pastor Robert Morris, following allegations that he abused an underage girl in the 1980s. In a statement posted to X on Tuesday, the network said: “We are deeply grieved and saddened by the recent and very serious allegations against Pastor Robert Morris involving the sexual abuse of a 12-year-old minor.
Paul Rudd says he wants to meet Jesus, over any historical figure
Actor Paul Rudd has said that if he could meet one person from history it would be Jesus Christ. The Antman and Clueless actor is Jewish, but identifies as “not particularly religious". However, in a promotional interview for his upcoming film Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, the 55-year-old was emphatic about his desire to have a conversation with Jesus. "Anyone from history, who would we choose? I know my answer," Rudd said.
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