Bus ads target cultural Christians ahead of census
The British Humanist Association is gearing up for a major advertising campaign calling upon cultural Christians to tick ‘no religion’ in the forthcoming census. BHA will be running posters on buses and trains telling the non-religious: ‘If you’re not religious then for God’s sake say so.’ The 2001 census was the first to ask British people ‘What is your religion?’, although answering was voluntary. Seventy-two per cent of the population in England answered the question by identifying themselves as Christians. This year, the census in England and Wales will ask: ‘What is your religion?’, while in Scotland it will say: ‘What religion, religious denomination or body do you belong to?’ In a bid to address concerns over accuracy, the Office for National Statistics has introduced a small change to the tick options, replacing ‘none’ with ‘no religion’. The census takes place this year on March 27. Pray: for the Government as these statistics are likely to change the way the Government thinks and pray that it makes wise decisions. (Jas.1:26-27) census/27569.htm
Fairtrade is not about charity, it is about justice
‘Fairtrade Fortnight' runs from 28th February-13th March and the Archbishop of York is calling for people to support it by organising events and buying Fairtrade produce. Since the launch of the first Fairtrade label in 1988, the Fairtrade Foundation has been seeking to transform trading structures and practices to help the poor and disadvantaged all over the world. The Archbishop encouraged all to get involved in Fairtrade Fortnight by saying: ‘I encourage anyone who is organising an event during Fairtrade Fortnight. Remember your contribution and commitment can help make a difference to those suffering in poverty around the globe. ‘Fairtrade is not about charity, it is about justice. It is about people getting fair pay for the produce and products of their labours, no matter where they live in the world. Please join me in buying Fairtrade produce where you can – this small act makes such a big difference in the fight against global poverty.' Pray: for the work of Fairtrade and for a huge response to Fairtrade Fortnight. (Ps.145:7)
Uzbekistan: 15,000 Bibles seized: Christian fined
Uzbekistan on Monday, February 28, still refused to release some 15,000 Bibles that were seized earlier by customs authorities and the Bible Society of Uzbekistan said one of its staff members was fined for ‘violating procedures.’ In statements, the State Religious Affairs Committee and Justice Ministry officials said they ordered the Bible Society to return the books to Russia at their own cost as ‘There is no need to import Bibles into Uzbekistan since there’s an electronic version on the Internet.’ Christian workers say however, that since the average income in Uzbekistan is about $10 a day, Internet access ‘may not be very accessible to the average person’. The Slavic Gospel Association, which is supporting churches in the former Soviet Union, said the latest developments are part of a wider crackdown on evangelical Christianity in the region. Pray: for the release of these Bibles that God’s Word will fulfil its purpose. (Pr.19:21) More: http://www.bosnewslife.com/15758-uzbekistan-seizing-15000-bibles-christian-fined
Uzbekistan: 15,000 Bibles seized: Christian fined
Uzbekistan on Monday, February 28, still refused to release some 15,000 Bibles that were seized earlier by customs authorities and the Bible Society of Uzbekistan said one of its staff members was fined for ‘violating procedures.’ In statements, the State Religious Affairs Committee and Justice Ministry officials said they ordered the Bible Society to return the books to Russia at their own cost as ‘There is no need to import Bibles into Uzbekistan since there’s an electronic version on the Internet.’ Christian workers say however, that since the average income in Uzbekistan is about $10 a day, Internet access ‘may not be very accessible to the average person’. The Slavic Gospel Association, which is supporting churches in the former Soviet Union, said the latest developments are part of a wider crackdown on evangelical Christianity in the region. Pray: for the release of these Bibles that God’s Word will fulfil its purpose. (Pr.19:21) More: http://www.bosnewslife.com/15758-uzbekistan-seizing-15000-bibles-christian-fined
