Death by suicide claims over 6000 lives every year in the UK. As Christians, how can we be more aware of the red flags to help our family and friends get vital support when they need it? Esther Higham spoke to Dr Rob Waller, a Consultant Psychiatrist, and Rachael Newham, a writer specializing in the theology of mental health. If you need prayer support: www.premierlifeline.org.uk. For more info on suicide support and prevention: https://www.mindandsoulfoundation.org/Groups/424321/Suicide.aspx
Recently, a thorough investigation of the Grenfell Tower fire released its findings, exposing a series of failures by the government, private sector, and London Fire Brigade. Churches were present when the disaster occurred. So, how did their presence and intervention make a difference then and how does it continue to affect those impacted? The Bishop of Kensington, the Rt Rev Emma Ineson, and Rev Gareth Wardell discussed this with Esther Higham.
Designer and entrepreneur Josie Gamble chats to Esther Higham about getting more people in your church building through good branding and a clear message.
A church survey has found a ratio of two men to three women in our congregations, with most UK churches having double the number of single women to men. So why is church less appealing to men? And what are some of the creative ways we can reach out to those put off by our Sunday services? Esther Higham spoke to Gareth Thompson from Kingdom Wrestling and Tristan Lury, the founder of Bridge The Gap Football.
If you work or live with young people, you might be used to them avoiding phone calls. A USwitch survey has found a quarter of those aged 18-34 never answer their phone. So, why are young people so averse to calls? And how do we help them toughen up on their soft skills? James Brumwell is the Head of Ops at Gas Street Church. He spoke to Esther Higham about his love of voice notes, the church undervaluing "the spiritual gift of administration", and spreadsheets being vital for building the kingdom.
Coldplay have been generating excitement in Christian corners of the internet with their new single 'We Pray. But the song making no mention of God's name, so is it really a prayer? Writer Tim Bechervaise, music critic Derek Walker, and Jennifer Sturrock from 24-7 Prayer, spoke to Esther Higham.
David Rowe, a chaplain based in the US, spent hours finding songs to suit every book in the Bible. He spoke to Esther Higham about why Romans reminds him of the Clash, Bruce Springsteen is reminiscent of Numbers, and Public Enemy reflects the themes of Zephaniah.
Marty Woods is an Olympic nut and one of the people behind the France 1 Million initiative, encouraging one million people to pray for the country during the games. He chatted to Esther Higham about getting the world praying for Paris.
Keir Starmer has repeatedly been warning of tricky times and difficult decisions ahead, prompting some Labour MPs to warn him there’s too much “doom and gloom” in what he's been saying. But is it better for a leader to be brutally honest? Or does the PM need to inject more optimism into his style of leadership? James Mildred, CARE, and Rev Andy Fitchet, Christians on the Left, spoke to Esther Higham.
The announcement of the Britpop band Oasis reuniting for their first live show in over 15 years has been dominating headlines and social media. What lessons can we draw from the Gallagher brothers putting aside their differences to reunite? Drew Cordell from Honest Christianity and divorce and relationship coach Jessica Roy explore this with Esther Higham.
Last week, an American counterintelligence officer alleged that senior government officials are not investigating UFOs because they believe them to be "demonic." Are these claims merely science fiction, or do they warrant serious consideration? Astrophysicist, Reverend Professor David Wilkinson and Dr Matthew Halsted join Esther Higham to unpack this
A recent study by the Medical College of Wisconsin indicates that daily singing the classic hymn "Amazing Grace" for just ten minutes could significantly improve heart disease. What could be the reason for this hymn's transformative effect, even after more than 245 years since its creation? Worship leader and artist Nick Herbert discusses this with Esther Higham.
The Paralympics starts this week in Paris, showcasing the incredible skills of people who have overcome disability, limb loss or visual and hearing impairment to become elite athletes. Anne Wafula Strike is a wheelchair racer who became the first Kenyan to represent her country in the sport 20 years ago. She spoke to Esther Higham about changing attitudes to the games, what it takes to be elite, and how faith has guided her career.
For years, the NHS has been assessing the weigh of Reception and Year 6 students. But is this practice a vital indicator of our children's health or is it piling more pressure a generation worried about their body? Esther Higham spoke to Lizzie Harewood from the Association of Christian Teachers.
How do you deal with your anger? Do you struggle with sudden outbursts or do you try and keep it simmering below the surface? Anger Management coach Sam Obafemi and geophysicist Robert White chat to Esther Higham about volcanic eruptions, losing our temper, and God's righteous anger.
