Parliament will be debating a bill on assisted suicide for terminally ill people later today, with a vote next month. Celebrity support and MP Kim Leadbetter’s private members’ bill have reignited the issue, but Christian leaders, including Archbishop Justin Welby, have been warning of ethical concerns and potential dangers for medical professionals. Esther Higham spoke to Professor Julian Hughes and Jamie Gillies, from Christian think-tank CARE, to hear their concerns.
As of March 2024, 19.3% of offenders were employed six weeks post-release (excluding those unavailable for work or with unknown employment status). Despite this, many ex-offenders struggle to restart their lives. Helping them can be challenging, but it's something God supports. How can we aid ex-offenders in their recovery when the system is against them? Lindsey Middleton (180 Project), Josh Dalton (180 Project), and Jane Gould (Clean Sheet) joined Esther Higham to discuss this.
Photographer Christopher Hall chats with Esther Higham about coming off the streets, challenging perceptions of homelessness through his craft, and how his story of faith started with a Psalm and a painting.
Films like Marvel's Black Panther show that movies led by black talent can be box office hits. However, is this success enough to significantly change how black actors are celebrated, or is there still progress to be made in movies, TV, and entertainment? Oscar-nominated British actor David Gyasi, known for Cloud Atlas, Interstellar, Troy: Fall of a City, Carnival Row, and The Diplomat, discussed this with Esther Higham.
Comedian Miranda Hart recently announced she'd got married at 51 years old, giving hope to those still searching for that special someone. Premier's Ian and Irene Britton met at a time when Ian "wasn't looking" for a relationship and Irene was heading toward her 60th birthday. The doting couple joined Esther Higham to chat about their unique first date, working together as completely different people, and why it's never too late to fall in love.
Nick Taylor tried everything to overcome a gambling addiction that had cost him tens of thousands of pounds and created a distance between him and his family. In the end, only Jesus could set him free. Nick joined Lord Bishop Alan Smith, an anti-gambling campaigner, and Esther Higham to chat about changing betting laws, the book of Proverbs, and whether it's time to ditch your church raffle.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria faced criticism for accepting over £100,000 in gifts and hospitality. Despite repaying £6,000 last week, controversy remains. The Bible advises honouring leaders for their hard work and guidance. Should we extend this to church leaders, councillors, and prime ministers? Dr. Nick Spencer from Theos and Rev. Allison Harding discussed this with Esther Higham.
Have you ever seen a movie that changed your life? The people behind The Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot hope their film will inspire hundreds of families to adopt or foster. The film tells the incredible true story of a small church in rural Texas that rallied to adopt over 70 children in care. Esther Higham spoke to actor Nika King and producers Joe Knittig and Rebeka Weigel . The film is out in cinemas from 11th October. You can find out more at soundofhopemovie.co.uk
Despite a large majority win, the new Labour government faces challenges, including controversy over the Winter Fuel payment and the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer's Chief of Staff, Sue Gray. So what is really happening at the heart of our corridors of power? James Mildred from CARE discussed these issues with Esther Higham.
Former Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees joins Esther Higham as part of our Black History Month celebrations and conversations. They discuss whether diversity in government matters, how we reconcile with the UK's history of enslavement and why the Parable of the Talents encouraged him to go into politics.
A study from the Hebrew University reveals that most Israelis support the new military push into Lebanon aimed at halting Hezbollah’s near-daily rocket fire. One year on, the Middle East is on the brink of an even larger and more destructive war. Is the military strategy effective, and what lies ahead? Major General Tim Cross discussed this with Esther Higham.
A year after Hamas's attack on Israel, with conflict now extending to Lebanon, Iran, and Yemen, we continue to ask: how can we pray for peace in the Holy Land? Esther Higham spoke with Rev. David Hardman, the Liaison Officer in Jerusalem for the Methodist Church, Janet Symes from CAFOD, and Drew Caldwell and Christelle Hayek from the 24-7 Prayer team in Lebanon
Becoming a church leader is a complex business and requires much more than just a CV and job interview. But should it be this hard given the types of people who became leaders in the Bible? How do we 'discern' if we're ready to be leaders? Esther Higham spoke to Rev Michelle Nunn, the Principal of Regents College and a member of the Elim Church National Leadership Team, and Rev Phil Jump, the Regional Minister for the North West Baptist Association..
Lucy Stevens and Chris Joseph are both part of a new community of Christian Poets. They joined Esther Higham to share their top tips for writing, why scripture is a "never ending stream of inspiration", and how poetry helps us to express our faith.
Do you know anyone that’s come to faith via social media? David Lochhead does! David is the Head of Development at Streams Studio, a platform sharing encouraging testimonies and stories of faith. He spoke to Esther Higham about social media prodigals, being patient with your content, and why consistency is key when evangelising online,
