Pope Francis: All believers are called to share the Gospel
Pope Francis has officially presented his first Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium (the Joy of the Gospel), at a press conference in Rome. The Exhortation marks the end of the Year of Faith celebrated by Catholics around the world,and was presented by the Pope on Sunday. It aims to encourage believers to embark upon a new chapter of evangelisation marked by joy, and presents a vision for the life of the Church in the future. In the document, Pope Francis declares that all Catholics are called to proclaim the Gospel and to see the responsibility to evangelise as their own. He reminds the faithful that ‘the word of God constantly shows us how God challenges those who believe in Him to go forth’. He names God as ‘the source and inspiration of all our efforts at evangelisation’, and says that in order to lead ‘a dignifying and fulfilling life’, we must reach out to others.
Pray: that the Church will take up the responsibility of evangelisation as encouraged by the Pope. (Col.2:2)
Nine million in 'serious' debt across the UK
Nearly nine million people across the UK are living with serious debt problems, according to a new report. The Money Advice Service (MAS) also said very few people were making any attempt to get professional help. The problem is particularly acute in five English cities, (Manchester, Hull, Nottingham, Knowsley and Liverpool), where more than 40% of the population is struggling to pay their debts. According to the survey, 18% of Britons, 8.8 million people, consider they have ‘serious’ financial issues. MAS, which is backed with public money, said that for the first time, the survey had provided a detailed understanding of the lives of those who are in debt. The report found that 74% of those struggling with debt were ‘unhappy’. There is particular concern that very few people ask for help. ‘millions of people could escape their spiral of debt by accessing free advice,’ said Caroline Rookes, the chief executive of MAS.
Pray: for the many thousands trapped in debt and that ways will be found to offer advice. (Ro.13:8)
Knives found hidden under prison mats following Muslim gang war
Home-made knives were found hidden under prison prayer mats after an inmate was stabbed in a jail war. Officers discovered 13 razor-sharp weapons following a brawl between Muslim gangs. A young man was knifed in the back in what is believed to have been revenge for another stabbing at Swaleside Prison in Kent. A source said: ‘There is a battle for power going on between Muslim gangs at the prison. There could easily have been serious injuries or deaths and the level of violence is terrifying.’ The category B jail on the Isle of Sheppey holds 1,112 inmates, including a large population of Muslim prisoners. Staff have to hold two sets of Friday Prayers - at the chapel and an overflow in the Multi Faith Room where the attack took place. Glyn Travis, of the Prison Officers’ Association, said: 'This is a worrying escalation. The number of weapons recovered is unprecedented and shows a determination to cause violence.’
Pray: for the safety of all the staff and prisoners alike. Pray against violence and gang culture. (Ps.122:7)
More: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/thirteen-home-made-knives-found-hidden-2844154
Free friendship phone service for older people launchedA free 24-hour
dedicated helpline for older people across the UK has been launched by Esther Rantzen. 'The Silver Line' aims to combat loneliness in the over-65s by providing friendship, information and advice through calls to trained volunteers. Ms Rantzen said she hoped the phone line number, 0800 4 70 80 90, would be remembered by all older people when they needed friendship or advice. The phone line is funded by a £5m grant from the Big Lottery Fund. The Department of Health has said that loneliness causes serious physical and mental damage. More than half of the UK's over-75s live alone. ‘We will signpost them to the services in their community and, by showing them we value them and care about them, we will restore their confidence and feelings of self worth' says Ms. Rantzen.
Pray: for the success of this initiative that it will meet the needs of those in this sector. (Is.58:10)
