'No place' in the law for Christianity, High Court rules
There is no place in British law for Christian beliefs, despite this country’s long history of religious observance and the traditions of the established Church, two High Court judges said on Monday. Lord Justice Munby and Mr Justice Beatson made the remarks when ruling on the case of a Christian couple who were told that they could not be foster carers because of their view that homosexuality is wrong. The judges underlined that, in the case of fostering arrangements at least, the right of homosexuals to equality ‘should take precedence’ over the right of Christians to manifest their beliefs and moral values. Eunice and Owen Johns went to court after a social worker expressed concerns when they said they could not tell a child a ‘homosexual lifestyle’ was acceptable. They asked judges to rule that their faith should not be a bar to them becoming carers, and that the law should protect their Christian values. The Johns said ‘the judges have suggested that our views might harm children’. Pray: for the Johns and all those who have to defend their faith's beliefs in an increasingly secular society. (Lk.21:13-15)
Archbishop tells MPs: ‘Govt should not dictate to us’
The Church of England will not permit its buildings to be used for same-sex civil partnerships, according to the Archbishop of Canterbury. And it will not allow itself to be dictated to by the Government. Dr Rowan Williams made the comments at a recent private meeting with influential MPs. His remarks come following the Coalition Government’s controversial plans to allow religious buildings to be used to conduct civil partnership ceremonies. Dr Williams told the MPs that the Church held a clear position that marriage is between a man and a woman and would not consider changing this stance. (See Prayer Alert 08-2011) Pray: for the Holy Spirit to give all believers a greater boldness to stand up for our faith. (Ac.4:29)
Churches and chapels in Wales facing uncertain future
Rising repair bills, and dwindling heritage grants are threatening many listed churches and chapels, across Wales. The gap between community donations and the total bill used to be narrowed by grants from bodies such as the Heritage Lottery Fund and Welsh heritage agency Cadw, as well as with support from bespoke funds such as the Listed Places of Worship scheme. But in recent years these funds have become more difficult to obtain or their terms made more restrictive. Pray: that congregations in Wales will be able to find innovative ways of keeping their places of worship. (Mt.16:18)
Concerns for homeless
Housing Justice, a Christian homelessness charity has spoken out against plans by Westminster Council to introduce restrictions to rough sleeping and food distribution for the homeless in the area. The Council has just opened a four-week consultation on a new bylaw that will fine people in the area around Victoria Station if they ‘lie down or sleep in any public place’, ‘deposit bedding’ or distribute free food and drink. This includes charity soup runs and food distribution schemes which have come up against strong opposition from Westminster Council. The Council tried in 2007 to ban soup runs in central London on the grounds that they put local residents at risk by attracting large numbers of homeless people to the area. It was forced to back-track on its plans, however, after they were met with public outcry. Alison Gelder, director of Housing Justice, believes the proposals are unnecessary. Pray: for the many charities that reach out to the homeless that their work will not be interrupted and the council make wise decisions. (Jas.3:13) More:http://www.christiantoday.com/article/concerns.for.homeless.as.westminster.moots.restrictions/27590.htm
