Religion Media Centre Podcast

The Bible Society’s report “A Quiet Revival” has been pulled after a review of the data found a number of “fraudulent respondents”. The report was based on a survey conducted by YouGov which found a dramatic increase of 56 per cent in the number of people attending church at least once a month from 2018-2024, with the growth particularly marked among 18-24 year olds. This high increase had not been seen in any other data, and the results were challenged from the outset by pollsters. YouGov has issued a statement saying it reviewed the data and found specific demographic groups contained a number of respondents which it now identified as fraudulent. It took full responsibility and apologised. The Bible Society said it was deeply disappointed, but continues to maintain that there is a spiritual awakening among GenZ and more people are finding faith today. In this briefing, we review the fallout from the flawed data and resultant withdrawal of the report, and the lessons for Christians commissioning data, polling companies finding answers, journalists reporting polls and the legacy of distrust. Hosted by Ruth Peacock, the speakers were: Paul Williams, CEO Bible Society – offering to take part Prof David Voas, Emeritus Professor of Social Science in the UCL Social -Research Institute, which he led from 2016 to 2020 Prof Sir John Curtice, senior research fellow at the National Centre for Social Research Nick Spencer, senior fellow at Theos Justin Brierley, author, speaker & podcaster. Director of Think Faith. Host of the podcast Uncommon Ground. Revd Canon Giles Goddard, vicar of St John’s Waterloo Links Website: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/ X: https://x.com/RelMedCentre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmw Contact Information [email protected] (+44) 0203 970 0709

The green paper on the BBC Charter Review is up for public consultation, and in this Religion Media Centre briefing, faith leaders and media commentators discuss how religious broadcasting will develop in a time of technological and societal change. Religion has always been embedded in the BBC public service settlement, but in the new media landscape of algorithms and global competition, will there be a demand for such programmes? And how will the BBC's challenges of trust, funding, competition and public service to the nation, impact religious programming? Our host was Torin Douglas, former BBC media correspondent, and our guests included: Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York; Anna McNamee, Executive Director, Sandford St Martin’s Trust; Alison Green, Head of Digital at CTVC; Bishop John Arnold, Catholic Bishops’ Conference; and Roger Bolton, broadcaster. Links Website: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/ X: https://x.com/RelMedCentre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmw Contact Information [email protected] (+44) 0203 970 0709

The incoming Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, inherits a daunting in-tray, as faithful congregations keep the show on the road despite crumbling buildings, falling numbers of clergy and financial pressures. Nationally, the church is weary of safeguarding failures and deeply divided over same-sex blessings, with opponents already withholding funding, and plans for a parallel structure of bishops only just pulled back from the brink.In this briefing, authors of books about the new archbishop describe her character and expectations for her tenure. Members of the Church of England’s parliament, the general synod, discuss the tensions and divisions which will once again come to the fore at next week’s synod meeting in London. Hosted by Ruth Peacock and journalist Tim Wyatt, who has written about the archbishop and the ten urgent challenges for the church, and joined by:Dr Andrew Atherstone, also author of a book on Sarah MullallyFrancis Martin, Church Times reporterRev Alex Frost, from Burnley, campaigning for more working-class clergyRev Dr Charlie Bączyk-Bell, forensic psychiatrist and priest, LGBTQ+ campaignerRev Chantal Noppen, national coordinator Inclusive ChurchSam Wilson, parish youth minister in Chester DioceseDr Ros Clarke, Associate Director of Church SocietySusie Leafe, Director of Anglican FuturesLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

In our first RMC Briefing of 2026, we look at the report "Questions of Hope and Hate: Faith and Faultlines in a Changing Britain", published by the Good Faith Partnership and Hope Not Hate, which explores the reasons for faith narratives being mobilised for causes of division in Britain, and recommends actions to “strengthen the institutions and relationships that allow faith to serve the common good”.It says there is a "rising visibility and politicisation of religion" in the UK, with "new Christian symbolism of populist movements, the assertive politics of Hindutva, forms of Zionism shaped by existential insecurity, Sikh advocacy of a state of Khalistan and Islamist visions that link faith with power”.The report analyses the reasons behind this shift, suggesting that democratic fatigue, global conflict, internal religious change, and weakened interfaith structures are reshaping civic life. Among its recommendations are the creation of stable long-term mechanisms for government and faith relations, embedding religious literacy across institutions, and renewing national narratives of belonging. Ruth Peacock hosted with guests:Report author Paul Bickley, independent researcher and consultantLord Russell Rook, member of the House of Lords, founding partner of the Good Faith Partnership and priest in the Church of EnglandCarrie Alderton, Interim CEO Faith and Belief ForumEd Pawson, RE adviser to a number of SACREs in SW England and member of the RE Council's Policy UnitAmardeep Bassey, journalist, RMC communities reporterLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Bishop Richard Moth, the Bishop of Arundel and Brighton, has been chosen as the next Archbishop of Westminster, taking over from Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who has held the role for 16 years.In his first press conference, he introduced himself to the public, mentioning his years as Bishop to the Forces, and his work in prisons, commitment to social justice and initiatives with mental health issues.In this briefing, guests spoke of his character and their experience of working with him. They spoke of his pastoral strengths and calmness, and the issues which will face him in his in-tray. Ruth Peacock hosted with guests including:Catherine Pepinster, journalist and authorProfessor Anthony McClaran, Vice-Chancellor St Mary’s University, TwickenhamProf James Kelly, Associate Professor in the History of Catholicism, University of DurhamProf Stephen Bullivant, Professor of Theology and the Sociology of Religion, Benedict XVI Centre for Religion, Ethics and SocietyLiam Allmark, Head of Communications, Jesuit Refugee ServiceFr Dominic Robinson SJ, Parish Priest at Farm Street ChurchSister Gemma Simmonds, Senior research fellow of the Margaret Beaufort Institute in CambridgeLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

This Religion Media Centre briefing is an annual review of religion in the headlines in 2025. The deadly attack on Jews at Bondi Beach came at the end of a year that saw antisemitism rise across the globe. Britain also saw an increase in hate crime against Muslims, while at the same time, there were new initiatives to build bridges and strengthen community relations.The Church of England experienced major change, with one Archbishop of Canterbury resigning and another appointed — the first woman to hold the role. The Catholic Church marked the death of Pope Francis and the surprise election of an American successor, Pope Leo XIV.The government’s Faith Minister lost his job and was replaced. Yet amid institutional change, faith communities on the ground remained active: alleviating poverty, delivering aid, helping to broker peace, and engaged in vigorous internal debates.In the UK and the US, Christian nationalism moved into sharper focus, while talk of a “Quiet Revival” — particularly among Gen Z — gathered momentum. Ruth Peacock hosted with guests reflecting on what the year has meant, and how it may be remembered:Jewish community: Simon Rothstein, comms for The Movement for Progressive Judaism; Victoria Lisek, Board of DeputiesBritish Muslims: Dr Azim Ahmed, General Secretary Muslim Council of Wales; and Akeela Ahmed, CEO and founder, British Muslim TrustReligious Education: Sarah Lane Cawte, Chair of the REC CouncilHindus in Britain: Tilak Parekh, PhD student in the Faculty of DivinityInterfaith: Rebecca Collins, Faith and Belief ForumUS and religion: Melissa Deckman, CEO of the Public Religion Research Institute; and Bob Smietana, national reporter for Religion News ServiceCatholic Church: Ruth Gledhill, Assistant Editor at The Tablet; and Sr Gemma Simmonds, Senior Fellow and Director of Religious Life InstituteChurch of England: Tim Wyatt, freelance religion reporter; Rev Alex Frost, vicar of St Matthew the Apostle, BurnleyAction for Peace and Justice: Simeon Mitchell, team leader of Joint Public Issues Team (Baptist, Methodist, URC)Aid: Peter Robertson, Humanitarian journalist at Christian AidLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Conversations between Jews and Muslims in Britain have been “very difficult” over the past two years since the Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. But community leaders taking part in a Religion Media Centre briefing said that, two years on, there is a growing desire to rebuild good relations — despite continuing anxiety and mistrust.The renewed dialogue comes after the ceasefire in Gaza and amid rising Islamophobia, antisemitism, and attacks on synagogues and mosques. New structures have been created to support local discussions, while at grassroots level “brave souls and heroes” continue to engage, encouraging small, informal meetings that help people to “disagree well.” Speakers described the task as urgent — “a fight for the soul of the nation” — and appealed to the government to “lean into this” by offering consistent support for interfaith initiatives.The discussion was hosted by Ruth Peacock, with guests:Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of DeputiesJonathan Boyd, executive director of the Institute for Jewish Policy ResearchRabbi Warren Elf, from ManchesterImam Qari Asim, Head Imam at Makkah Mosque Leeds and Chair of Mosques & Imams National Advisory BoardHasan Moosa Reza, chief of staff, office of the Chief Imam (Scotland), who was instrumental in the signing of the Drumlanrig AccordDr Adeela Shafi, founder of the Bristol Muslim Strategic Leadership GroupLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The decision to place Religious Education in the national curriculum in England has delighted RE teachers and campaigners who have been seeking improvements for years. The recommendation was made by the government’s curriculum and assessment review, after the panel heard evidence that RE was not being taught very well, and in some cases, not taught at all.In this Religion Media Centre briefing, we hear from a member of the review panel and campaigners who have been fighting for years to raise the status of RE, introduce national standards and enable schools to teach the subject well.Ruth Peacock hosted this discussion with guests:Dr Vanessa Ogden, panel review member and CEO of the Mulberry Schools TrustDr Richard Kueh, former Inspector and Subject Lead for Religious Education, now a leader with the Cam Academy Trust and member of the RE CouncilDeborah Weston, from the RE Policy UnitDr Kathryn Wright, CEO of Culham St Gabriel’s TrustDr Sarah Lane Cawte, chair of the RE CouncilEd Pawson, former deputy chair of the RE CouncilProf Susannah Cornwall, Exeter University, Professor of Constructive TheologiesLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

A survey for the National Churches Trust has gauged the scale of repair, restoration and maintenance required by Britain's church buildings, and the challenges of local communities to keep them usable and standing. One in 20 may not be used as a place of worship in five years time, and one in ten need to make urgent repairs to roofs and guttering in the next year.The National Churches Trust says there's an urgent need to act together to keep churches open with sustainable funding so they remain valued community assets. It recognises the valiant contributions of volunteers who spend hours fundraising, but finds 70 per cent of churches need more people to help, and says they should not be left to shoulder the burden alone. It is calling for more collaboration between heritage organisations, local authorities, denominations and the national government to face the challenge, saying the upkeep of churches is a shared responsibility.Ruth Peacock hosted this discussion with guests:Karl Newton, deputy CEO of the National Churches TrustSir Philip Rutnam, chair of the National Churches Trust.Lachlan Rurlander, of Whitestone Insight which conducted the researchProfessor Kate Giles, Centre for the Study of Christianity and Culture, University of YorkDiana Evans, Head of Places of Worship at Historic EnglandRev Huw Powell-Daves from Bethesda Chapel in MoldMary Keeley and Sheila Stephens from St Grada and Holy Cross church on the Lizard peninsula in CornwallLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The state visit of the King and Queen Camilla to the Vatican to meet Pope Leo on Thursday 23 October will be a historic occasion. The monarch and the leader of the Roman Catholic Church will pray together in the Sistine Chapel for the first time since the Reformation.The King, who is Supreme Governor of the Church of England, will participate in an ecumenical service jointly led by Pope Leo and the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell. Later, King Charles and Queen Camilla will visit the Papal Basilica of St Paul’s Outside the Walls, where the King will be given the title of Royal Confrater of St Paul, and a special chair has been made for him which will be used by him and his successors when they visit.In this briefing, Leo Devine hosts a discussion on the significance of the visit and what it says about the relationship between Anglicans and Roman Catholics, and the characters of the King and the Pope. Speakers are:Author and journalist, Catherine PepinsterFormer Vatican correspondent, Christopher White, author of "Pope Leo XIV: Inside the Conclave and the Dawn of a New Papacy"Francis Campbell, former ambassador to the Holy SeeDr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian of Westminster Abbey, writer on Anglican/RC dialogueLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

A report on the role of faith groups in planning and designing new towns and housing developments states that their contribution is crucial to building community and social cohesion. Housing with Values: faith and belief perspectives on housing and community planning was discussed in this Religion Media Centre briefing, which heard that "housing is about more than bricks and mortar - it is about the kind of society we want to build”.The report is a response to the government's proposal to build 1.5 million homes in 12 new towns over the next five years. It suggests that a New Towns Faith Taskforce is set up to enable conversations between faith representatives, developers and local councils, offering insight into how faith groups can contribute to the social infrastructure necessary for towns to thrive.Ruth Peacock hosted with guests: Phil Champain and Prof Christopher Baker, co-founders of the Faith and Belief Collective, which produced the report, and another co-author, Dr Iona Hines.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, has been appointed Archbishop of Canterbury — the first woman to lead the Church of England in its 500-year history. At a Religion Media Centre briefing, journalists and church leaders reflected on her qualities and achievements, outlining their hopes and expectations for her leadership.Speakers described her style as “courageous” and “pastoral,” traits seen as vital for her role, as she inherits deep divisions over same-sex blessings, the difficult task of embedding and strengthening safeguarding processes, and resistance from those who doubt a woman can hold authority in the role.In her first address, she pledged solidarity with the Jewish community after the Manchester attack, spoke of the church’s role in healing fractured communities, and acknowledged the church’s responsibility to wrestle with complex moral questions. Commentators stressed that, after the turmoil of Justin Welby’s departure, the new Archbishop must not only lead the church but also speak with moral clarity to the whole nation.Rosie Dawson chaired the discussion with many speakers taking part: Tim Wyatt, Catherine Pepinster, Prof Helen King, Rev Dr Charlie Bell, Ven Miranda Threlfall-Holmes, Rev Martine Oborne, Rev Cathrine Ngangira, Rev Angela Sheard, Susie Leafe, Edward Nickell, Rev Dr Ian Paul, Rev Canon John Dunnett, Justin Humphreys, Peniel Rajkumer, Bishop Sophie Jelley and Winnie Varghese.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Later this month, the Crown Nominations Commission is expected to decide the name of the next Archbishop of Canterbury, who will be the spiritual leader of the Church of England and head of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The appointment comes at a time of unprecedented turbulence in the church, the country and the world.In this Religion Media Centre briefing, people from a range of perspectives within the Church of England joined journalists in considering the qualities they are looking for in their next leader.The new archbishop will inherit a church wrestling with disputes over sexuality, safeguarding failures, financial shortfalls, declining congregations and a fractious global fellowship of churches. There was broad agreement that the appointment must be a unifying figure, someone whom each warring faction in the church can live with, and also someone not obsessed with internal church matters, but able to address social, economic and political challenges in wider society, which have led to polarisation.For the record, the frontrunners were named as the Bishops of Bath and Wells, Chelmsford and London. But speculation over this appointment is traditionally a fool's errand, with outsiders often pulling through, and among those names so far are Gloucester, Sheffield, Liverpool, Dover, Lancaster, Salisbury, Leicester, and St Edmundsbury and Ipswich.Rosie Dawson hosted this discussion with guests:Journalists - Tim Wyatt & Francis MartinBishop Humphrey Southern, Principal CuddesdonRev Prof Andrew Atherstone, Professor of Modern Anglicanism, Tutorial Fellow in Church History and Latimer Research Fellow, Wycliffe Hall, OxfordVen Dr Rachel Mann, Archdeaon of Bolton and SalfordRev Angela Sheard, Anglican Tutor as part of the Ministerial Formation team at Queen's College, BirminghamSusie Leafe, Director Anglican FuturesEdward Nickell, deanery synod member and secretary of the Sea of Faith NetworkLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The number of British universities offering single-honours Theology and Religious Studies degrees in UK universities has fallen to just 21, driven by financial pressures and falling student demand. Departments have been closed, merged, and subject to redundancies.In this Religion Media Centre briefing, our panel explored why students studying A-level Religious Studies often choose not to continue the subject at university, and what institutions can do to make courses more attractive. Decisions to close departments, we heard, were driven by business plans rather than increased secularisation at board level. Meanwhile, religious groups are establishing their own colleges offering degree-level courses, shifting provision away from mainstream universities.Theos Think Tank has warned of the consequences, publishing an open letter stressing the importance of religious education in higher education. It argues that young people need the tools to navigate a diverse society and grapple with ethical challenges.Our panel of academics and teachers discussed the scale of the problem, as well as how changes to course content and better communication of its value might help turn things around. Speakers include:Dr Tim Hutchings, TRS-UK, Nottingham University Prof Matthew Guest, Durham UniversityDr Suzanne Owen, BASR, Leeds University Dr Roberto Catello, Liverpool Hope UniversityProf Chris Higgins, former vice chancellor, Durham UniversityProf Gordon Lynch, Edinburgh UniversitySarah Lane Cawte, chair RE CouncilDeborah Weston, NATRELinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Muslims in the UK feel hugely under-represented in the media, and research suggests almost 60 per cent of all articles are negative, according to speakers at the Religion Media Festival’s panel discussion on “Muslims in Britain”. Burhan Wazir, editor-in-chief of Hyphen Online, told the audience that the vast majority of stories tend to look at Muslims from a security or Islamophobia point of view, but there was a much more nuanced conversation to be had about access to healthcare, education and how Muslims live their lives.The panel was chaired by BBC investigative journalist Poonam Taneja, and other panellists were Rizwana Hamid, director of the Centre for Media Monitoring; Akeela Ahmed, co-chair of the British Muslim Network; and Dr Azim Ahmed, deputy director at the Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK, at Cardiff University.The Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

A panel discussion on British Media and British Jews considered how the war in Gaza, triggered by the Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October, had impacted coverage of the community in Britain. There have been reports on rising antisemitism and divisions within the Jewish community itself, with 36 members of the Board of Deputies of British Jews objecting to its stance on Gaza and making this public. A survey by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research found high community support for Israel but far less so for Binyamin Netanyahu’s government.The discussion was chaired by Richard Allen Greene, CNN’s Jerusalem Bureau chief at the time of the 7 October attack, and now in London training to be a rabbi. Panellists were: Jonathan Boyd, Executive Director, Institute for Jewish Policy Research; Rabbi Charley Baginsky, co-lead of Progressive Judaism; Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews; and Jenni Frazer, journalist and commentator.The Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The media landscape is changing at speed, and in this panel, millennials who are talking about religion in podcasts, film and online, explained why and how they do it. They said their audience wants to ask questions in a safe space and that millennials (currently aged 29 – 44) accept that society is pluralist. They all grew up and went to school with people of all faiths, so it was ridiculous not to take faith seriously. Their audience is not just brought in through knowledge-seeking, or rational argument, but through stories and feeling that the media was relatable. Hosted by TV producer Jessie Paktiazay, the guests were:Swarzy Shire, BBC 1Xtra presenterIndy and Dr Jaz, Sikh content creators with a weekly Desi podcastIslah Abdur-Rahman, Muslim founder of The Corner Shop Network creating viral clipsLamorna Ash, award-winning author of “Don’t Forget We’re Here Forever – a new generation’s search for religion”Daisy Scalchi, BBC commissioning editor, specialist factualThe Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

There aren’t that many reporters who specialise in reporting religion in the UK, but their diary has been overflowing in the past year. There are religious angles to all the main stories of today – the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the riots in the summer of 2024, and the needs of people in poverty helped by people of faith. The religious organisations themselves have been making headlines with the first resignation of an Archbishop of Canterbury, the death of one Pope and the election of another, and multiple sex abuse stories and cover-ups.Many of the journalists, whose work is to reflect this world to people of all faiths and none, took part in a panel discussion on how they do their jobs. Rosie Dawson chaired, with guests:Christopher Lamb, CCN Vatican CorrespondentCatherine Pepinster, author and journalistFrancis Martin, Church TimesKaya Burgess, Religious Affairs Correspondent and Science Reporter at The TimesMaira Butt, RMC specialist reporter on IslamThe Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

When Labour swept to power in July 2024, it promised to work with faith leaders in a programme of national renewal. Soon after, summer riots across Britain, after the murder of three girls in Southport, revealed a breakdown in social cohesion and tested community relations. One year on, a panel at the Religion Media Festival discussed what had happened since, and how community was being rebuilt and maintained across Britain.Editors spoke of how they had reported on communities coming together to clean up town centres, and their efforts to rebuild trust and tackle fake media. Faith leaders wanted to see what practical measures journalists had to rebuild trust, to report on faith group initiatives locally and to encourage young people in plans for the future. The faith minister’s adviser, Lord Russell Rook, said there was much work to be done to unlock the power of faith in local communities. No one group could do this alone; what was needed was an "ecosystem" of organisations.Leo Devine chaired this panel with guests:Gary Newby, news editor at ITV News CentralYakub Qureshi, democracy editor at Reach plcManjit Kaur, co-chair Coventry and Warwickshire SACREsRabbi Warren Elf, MBE, co-chair of Faith Network for ManchesterProfessor Adeela Shafi, founder of the Bristol Muslim Strategic Leadership Group and commissioner for race equality in BristolThe Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Football and religion have a lot in common; in fact, according to Dal Darroch, head of diversity and inclusion programmes at the Football Association, they are inextricably linked.In a presentation to the Religion Media Festival, he explained how they both give a sense of purpose, identity and belonging. The FA is, he said, trying to inspire positive change through football, ensuring equal opportunities, ending discrimination, and encouraging community support at the grassroots level.The Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Sir Mark Thompson, chief executive of CNN and former director-general of the BBC, told the Religion Media Festival that religion is important for journalists to understand and report well, not least because the overwhelming majority of people in the world have some level of commitment to it.A committed Catholic, he found religion “intriguing and fascinating”, but not everyone in the media business agreed. Interviewed by the BBC’s home editor, Mark Easton, he said religion plays a much bigger part in American life than in Britain, and more often, it’s woven into political discussion. The fact that really serious, powerful political figures in the United States are trying to advance a broad cultural or political point by getting involved in particular questions of doctrine, was a good example of why journalists should take it seriously.The Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The Religion Media Festival 2025 opened with an interview by Roger Bolton with Channel 4 journalist Cathy Newman, who exposed the scandal of serial abuser John Smyth and the Church of England’s cover-up.She spoke of the way she got the incredible story of Smyth’s ‘barbaric’ abuse, her editor’s immediate response to investigate, and her impressions of Justin Welby - overwhelmed by events, who was forced to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury over his handling of the case. The interview is an insight into how Channel 4 pieced together the story and how the Church of England responded.The Religion Media Festival, held at Methodist Central Hall, London, on Monday 9 June 2025, was organised by the Religion Media Centre. We are a charity which aims to help journalists report religion by providing daily news bulletins, background briefings, factsheets and opportunities to network.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The Church of England General Synod has concluded its annual residential meeting in York, after a wide-ranging agenda on internal affairs, as well as issues affecting the country.They heard from a Brigadier about the dangerous world and the need for the church to prepare for war and support the chaplains. The Archbishop of Jerusalem addressed the synod on the plight of people in Gaza and won two standing ovations. A synod debate on assisted dying showed an overwhelming number against, and another on a redress scheme for survivors of abuse was welcomed as a step forward in the church's recent story of scandals.Internally, a bumper £1.36 billion funding package for dioceses over the next three years was agreed, along with a rise in clergy pay and pensions, and more money for low-income and deprived parishes. And in a striking moment, peace broke out in the sometimes hostile debate on same-sex marriage, with agreement to bin a 'pernicious' document on homosexuality from 34 years ago. Rosie Dawson hosted, with guests:Bishop Hugh Nelson, Bishop to the Armed ForcesJane Chevous, Director, Survivors VoicesBishop of Birkenhead, Julie ConaltyTim Wyatt, journalistNathan Obokoh, youth leaderVen Stewart Fyfe, Archdeacon of West CumberlandPaul Waddell, lay representative from SouthwarkLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

A global project to examine the changing role of religion in society during the Covid pandemic has reviewed what happened in five societies - Canada, Germany, Poland, Ireland and Northern Ireland.Academics looked at the place of religion in the health services with, for example, disagreements over the ethics of using certain vaccines; the changing relations with governments over closure of places of worship and helping vulnerable, isolated people; and digital innovation as groups communicated with each other online forging new relationships, while online worship and prayer transformed religious practices. The researchers interpreted their findings within the framework of secularisation and asked whether this process had been accelerated by Covid. Ruth Peacock hosted, with guests:Prof Gladys Ganiel, Queen's University, BelfastProf Solange Lefebvre, University of Montreal, CanadaProf Slawomir Mandes, University of WarsawAsst Prof Marta Kolodziejska, University of WarsawProf Kerstin Radde-Antweiler, University of Bremen, GermanyLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Who is Cardinal Robert Prevost, the man chosen to be the next Pope? Made a cardinal only in 2023, born in Chicago, a citizen of Peru where he spent much of his ministry, an Augustinian, a linguist, a tennis player, a calm and quietly spoken man, but his views on major issues facing the church today are largely unknown.In this Religion Media Centre briefing, the panel tried to piece the jigsaw together from clues about his past public comments and even his choice of name as Pope Leo XIV. They sensed Catholics around the world are buzzing with anticipation as to what he might do next. Will the progressive changes by Pope Francis remain, and what will be his influence across the world, and especially in America? Leo Devine hosted, with speakers including:Dr Robert Jones, president and founder of the US Public Religion Research InstituteBrenden Thompson, CEO Catholic Voices -Ruth Gledhill, Assistant Editor The TabletProf Thomas O'Loughlin, Nottingham UniversityRhiannon Parry Thompson, Root and Branch, a forum for reform in Catholic churchLuca Badini Confalonieri, Wingaards Institute for Catholic ResearchChristine Allen, Director of aid agency CAFODDiana Trimino Mora, CAFOD Head of Latin America ProgrammesLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Catholic cardinals are in Rome, preparing for the conclave when the next Pope is chosen. The process is familiar to millions through the film "Conclave" which tells the story of the rituals, ambition and politics involved as candidates emerge for consideration.In this Religion Media Centre briefing, journalists and commentators joined Catholics from England and Wales to give a view on the likely candidates, the key issues they will be required to address, and the character they are looking for to take over from Pope Francis. There was some agreement that they were looking for a leader and administrator, but also a pastor and great communicator, with a passion for social justice and an ability to show the kind of servant leadership modelled by Pope Francis, giving dignity to people on the margins.But there was a reluctance to favour one candidate over another; in fact, there was a note of caution that the outcome is very difficult to predict with unlikely candidates often coming through, and there was wide support for schemes which ask Catholics to pray for each cardinal in the conclave as they take their decision from 7 May. Ruth Peacock hosted, with speakers including:Catherine Pepinster, author and journalistMichael Kelly, Director of Public Affairs for Aid to the Church in Need, Ireland; and former editor of The Irish CatholicRichard Allen Greene, editorial lead for CNN's coverage of the last conclave in 2013Elena Curti, who covered the conclaves of 2005 and 2013 for The Tablet, reporting from the VaticanBrenden Thompson, CEO of Catholic VoicesJulia Cocoran, presenter of 'Things I Wish I Knew' podcast, Jesuits in BritainDr Mark Nash, Southwark Diocese co-director of Ongoing Formation and the Director of the Agency for Evangelisation and CatechesisGeorgia Clark, project manager 'Called to Bear Fruit'LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Pope Francis’ death at 88 has been mourned across the world, with tributes to his compassion, defence of the marginalised, advocacy for the poor, consistent appeals for world peace, and brave moves to open up decision making in the church. Among the tributes, he was described as ‘the very human, holy man of God’.In this Religion Media Centre briefing, a panel of Catholic commentators remember his 12 years in office, a time of immense global change. Hosted by Ruth Peacock, the panel included: Professor Tina Beattie, Christian theologian, writer and broadcaster; Catherine Pepinster, journalist and author; Sr Dr Gemma Simmonds, senior Fellow and Director of Religious Life Institute, The Maragret Beaufort Institute; Fr Christopher Jamison, Abbot President of the English Benedictine Congregation; Prof Brendan Gallaher, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at the University of Exeter; Prof Anna Rowlands, St Hilda Professor of Catholic Social Thought & Practice, University of Durham; Dr Lorna Gold, Executive Director at the Laudato Si' Movement; and Kerry Weber, an executive editor for America, a US based multi media organisation in the Jesuit tradition.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

"The Quiet Revival" , a report by The Bible Society, indicates a revival of Christianity in England and Wales, with congregations up in the last four years from 8 to 12 per cent, a growth largely fuelled by Gen Z – young people aged 18-24.The conclusion is based on a survey of 13,000 people by YouGov, commissioned by The Bible Society. It found 16 per cent of Gen Z attended church once a month, compared to 4 per cent four years ago. The most dramatic increase in churchgoing, according to the research, is among young men, where attendance increased from 4 to 21 per cent. The report authors say community and a sense of belonging is the key explanation.Ruth Peacock and Jessie Paktiazay, a producer and director at Three Arrows Media, hosted this discussion with report authors Dr Rhiannon McAleer, Director of Research and Impact at Bible Society and Dr Rob Barward-Symmons, Head of Research, Theos. The findings buck the trend of reported decline among the main denominations and our other panellists discuss the findings: Dr Tim Hutchings, University of Nottingham researcher and teacher, specialising in the field of religion, media and culture; Christopher Gasson, author and commmissioner of OnePoll which suggested Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to say they are “spiritual” than older people, and less likely to identify as atheists; and Dr Peter Brierley, statistician who has been collecting and analysing church statistics for 50 years.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://x.com/RelMedCentreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

It's five years since the Church of England began producing a National Online Service. Since its inception during the first COVID lockdown, it has become a fixture, especially for people who are ill, housebound or living remotely. More than a third of parish churches and those of other denominations have maintained their online Sunday service since the pandemic.In this briefing, our panel reviews the way churches have adapted worship and other activities to the online space, the benefits of online worship and the impact of this on the number of people attending church in person, as congregations dwindle and church buildings close. Our speakers included:Professor Scott Thumma, co-director of at Hartford Institute for Religion Research, Connecticut;Dr Tim Hutchings, University of NottinghamRev Dr Peter Phillips, Programme Director for the MA in Digital Theology and Tutor in Theology at Spurgeons College, LondonRev Tony Miles, Superintendent Minister and Team Leader of Methodist Central Hall, Westminster and a well-known broadcasterRev Canon Zoe Heming, Canon for Mission at Newcastle CathedralBen Sims, National Churches Trust Head of Fundraising and Public AffairsAmaris Cole, Head of Digital at the Church of EnglandLinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The British Muslim Network is a new organisation which will talk to the government about issues affecting Muslim communities such as health, education, immigration, equalities and the economy.The network will include public figures from politics, media, business, entertainment and sport, as well as imams, lawyers, doctors and academics. Events will be held for Muslim communities to speak to each other and common concerns will be shared with the government to bring change.Successive governments have failed to engage formally with Muslim organisations since 2009, when links were broken with the Muslim Council of Britain, and the organisers of the Network say they hope to address a sense that Muslims feel marginalised and that their voices are not heard. Ruth Peacock hosted with guests: British Muslim Network co-chair, Imam Qari Asim; Dr Naomi Green, Assistant Secretary General, Muslim Council of Britain; Burhan Wazir, Editor Hyphen Online; and Haniya Aadam, head of civic engagement at the Green Lane Majid in Birmingham. For further information on Religion Media Centre briefings email [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The Church of England's General Synod has met for the first time since the Archbishop of Canterbury resigned and the Bishop of Liverpool retired, events related to safeguarding which have shocked the church.In this discussion, journalists who reported on the meeting reflect on how synod dealt with the crisis on its hands, fudging a vote on making safeguarding independent; tightening rules on clergy conduct which allow clerics to be sacked; refusing to back a suite of ideas to reform the way bishops are appointed; and applauding proposals to appoint more working-class people.Our panel saw signs of a move away from a centralised machine in the church, little sign that the synod made any impact on the CofE's national standing, and more responsibility for local churches to just carry on.Hosted by Ruth Peacock, the panel was: Francis Martin from the Church Times, Susie Leafe from Anglican Futures and Andrew Carey from the Church of England newspaper.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The sudden and shocking departure of the Bishop of Liverpool, John Perumbalah, following allegations of sexual abuse and sexual harassment against two women, one of whom was a bishop, has stunned the Church of England.In this Religion Media Centre briefing, our panel discussed the impact of his retirement on the city of Liverpool, the wider Church of England and its standing in the nation, where it is the established church. There were stories of a crisis of trust in the church, with clergy in Liverpool feeling disillusioned. The role of the media was discussed, as it was journalists who told the story of the allegations after which the bishop resigned. He denied he had done anything wrong and criticised his "trial by media". The conversation highlighted the need for improved CofE safeguarding processes, with proposals coming up at the next General Synod meeting for an independent organisation to handle complaints and a new system for dealing with misconduct.Ruth Peacock, Tim Wyatt, Mick Ord and Catherine Pepinster asked the questions. The guest speakers are: the Archdeacon of Liverpool, Miranda Threlfall-Holmes; Rev Stuart Haynes, Director of Communications for the Diocese of Liverpool; the Bishop of Blackburn, Philip North; Fr Alex Frost, podcaster and vicar of St Matthew the Apostle, Burnley, and a general synod member; Rev Canon Rachel Firth, Vicar of Huddersfield Parish Church, so a synod member; and Theo Hobson, journalist and author of Against Establishment: An Anglican Polemic (2003).LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the Nazi concentration camp, will be commemorated across the world on 27 January. 1.1 million people were killed there, mostly Jews, but also Polish people, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, gays, and criminals. Auschwitz is a symbol of the Holocaust and 27 January is remembered as the International Holocaust Remembrance Day.The images and stories of survivors are well documented, but less well known is that Auschwitz was home to at least six orchestras, formed of prisoners and commissioned by the SS. Musicians incarcerated there composed and arranged scores - many of their manuscripts are incomplete while others are damaged beyond recognition.A young British musician, Leo Geyer, who has painstakingly restored and completed their work, joined the briefing to explain his discovery. Young musicians have been brought together to recreate the compositions, which they perform as the story is told in a documentary on Sky Arts on the evening of Monday 20 January.Other guests are Holocaust survivor, Joan Salter, and Laura Marks, Chair of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. The host is Richard Allen Greene, formerly CNN's Jerusalem Bureau Chief, now training to be a Rabbi.LinksWebsite: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

What stories about religion can journalists expect to make the headlines in 2025? That was the question for our first briefing of the year, when a panel of journalists and commentators gingerly made predictions for the year ahead.At home, the appointment of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the volatile state of the Church of England will be centre stage. The new UK Labour government, which faced riots only weeks after taking office, faces high hopes from people wanting to see more engagement with diverse communities, to promote peace on the streets. There's a demand for improved good relations within faith groups and between people from different traditions.Alongside this, war in the Middle East and Ukraine, the new presidency of Donald Trump, rising disquiet at populism played out through social media and inaction over climate change, will all touch the UK and provide issues for comment and debate through the year. Rosie Dawson hosted this discussion with guests:Madeleine Davies, Senior Writer at the Church TimesRichard Allen Greene, formerly CNN's Jerusalem Bureau Chief, now training to be a RabbiBurhan Wazir, Editor in chief, Hyphen OnlineSr Gemma Simmonds CJ, senior research fellow, Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology, CambridgePeter Heneghan, communications consultantKaya Burgess, Religious Affairs Correspondent and Science Reporter at The TimesFor further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

2024 turned out to be quite a year for news about religion and in our last briefing of the year, we looked back at some of the headlines, the arguments, the characters, and the public events that brought religion to the fore.Headlines include the historic resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury; the way religion met public policy with a vote to allow assisted dying in England and Wales; the global synod of Catholics in Rome with disappointment for women's campaigners; summer riots and attacks on British Muslims; how the Gaza war spilled over to inflame tensions here, with a rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia; the abrupt closure of the Interfaith Network after 40 years; warm words about religious organisations in the UK election and a new Faith Minister; How evangelicals helped put Trump back in the White House; the 40th anniversary of the attack on Golden Temple, Amritsar and the opening of the $217 million Hindu temple Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.Hosted by Ruth Peacock, our interviewers were our RMC journalists Catherine Pepinster and Rosie Dawson; and our guests were Kaya Burgess, Religious Affairs Correspondent for The Times; Austen Ivereigh, Catholic journalist, author and commentator; Richard Allen Greene, formerly an editor with CNN now training to be a rabbi; RMC reporter on British Islam, Maira Butt; and RMC reporter on the Sikh tradition, Liz Harris.For further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The Assisted Dying bill was passed in the House of Commons by 55 votes and now moves on for further consideration. In this Religion Media Centre briefing, a panel of religious leaders, academics and hospice chaplains consider the repercussions of the bill after a hotly contested debate that was highly emotional.Among their issues of concern were what happens to medical staff within the small teams dealing with terminally ill patients, who refuse to have anything to do with it, some on the grounds of their faith. How is palliative care to be improved amid so many other needs in the NHS? How are vulnerable people to be protected?There were wider issues thrown up in the debate - we need as a society to talk about death and the fear associated with it. What is the place of religion in society now that Christian influence is waning, and will this decision be seen as an act of betrayal by the NHS, destroying trust in a public service which is always there to care and repair except in death. Hosted by Ruth Peacock, the panel included:Dr Matthew Doré, honorary secretary of the Association of Palliative Care Medicine for Great Britain and IrelandBishop John Sherrington, Lead Bishop for Life IssuesDr Mansur Ali, Senior Lecturer in Islamic Studies, Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK, University of CardiffRev Professor Douglas Davies, Dept of Theology and Religion, and Director of the Centre for Death and Life StudiesRev Karen Murphy, hospice chaplain for 25 years, now at Weston Hospicecare in Weston Super MareFor further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The resignation of Justin Welby as Archbishop of Canterbury has left the Church of England reeling. There is consensus that he had no option after the publication of the Makin report which exposed the horrific abuse of young men and boys by the barrister, John Smyth, and a decades-long cover-up by the Church of England.Smyth led Christian summer camps run by the Iwerne Trust which Justin Welby attended as a young man. From the mid-1970s, Smyth groomed boys and then took them back to his garden shed where they were beaten until they bled. The abuse was known about in the church from the early 1980s but was covered up. Smyth left the country and died in 2018, having never been brought to justice.In a statement, Justin Welby said he was taking personal and institutional responsibility for the failure to act on the John Smyth abuse between 2013 and 2024 and had a profound sense of shame at the historic safeguarding failures of the Church of England. His resignation, which is without precedent, has been described as a seismic shock. Roger Bolton hosts this discussion with guests:Andrew Graystone, author of Bleeding for Jesus, an account of John Smyth's abuseSusie Leafe, Director of Anglican FuturesMark Stibbe, survivor, author and former vicarFrances Martin, reporter with the Church TimesProfessor Linda Woodhead, King's College, LondonProf Helen King, member of the General SynodFor further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Ninety financial sector leaders and church leaders from sixteen countries, all of whom oversee significant investment portfolios, are taking part in a meeting in London this week to turbocharge the market for investments that fit Christian beliefs.The Mensuram Bonam summit, on 11 and 12 November, is the second of its kind and seeks to engage the whole “eco-system” of Christian faith-aligned capital. It is organised by Jean-Baptiste de Franssu, President of the Vatican Bank, along with five international specialist asset managers, and takes its name from a document on faith-consistent investing, which advocates that assets should be invested for the common good, respecting justice and ethical standards.Mr de Franssu, who talks of “turbo-charging the market”, estimates that Christian funding could be worth as much as $1.75 trillion – a figure that includes the financial investments of religious organisations, charities and individuals as well as dioceses. In advance of the meeting, Mr de Franssu took part in a press conference introduced by Ruth Peacock, and hosted by the Religion Media Centre, explaining to journalists the purpose of the meeting.For further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

As the US presidential election campaign draws to a close, we use this opportunity to speak to faith leaders and election watchers to assess the importance of religion in the election campaign.Traditionally, white evangelicals have supported Donald Trump and this briefing made clear that they appear to have largely remained loyal. The majority of Catholics also support the Republican party. But Kamala Harris is courting the Black Christian vote and makes no secret of her commitment to the Christian faith.Moral issues are centre stage, whether personal on Trump's character, crimes or moral track record, or public morals such as respect for immigrants or a woman's right to choose. The Muslim vote has become increasingly important, said to be pivotal, in Georgia and other swing states. It swayed from Republican to Democrat after the Iraq war, but it may re-align again this time as Muslims are said to be "heartbroken" at the Biden administration's response to the war in Gaza and so their votes are more difficult to predict. Hosted by Rosie Dawson, our panel included:Dr Robert P. Jones, president and founder of Public Religion Research InstituteDr Shyam Sriram, Department of Political Science at Canisius University in Buffalo, New YorkDr Galen Carey, National Association of Evangelicals vice president of government relationsRobert McCaw, Government Affairs Department Director At the Council of America Islamic RelationsNazia Khanzada, Communications Manager, Council on American-Islamic Relations, GeorgiaJennifer Ewing, Republicans Overseas UKKristin Wolfe, Democrats Abroad in the UKFor further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The National Churches Trust has produced a report pointing out that churches provide health care which would otherwise cost the NHS £8.4 billion to deliver. "The House of Good Health" lists services such as youth groups, food banks, support for drug and alcohol addiction, and a listening ear for mental health counselling.But the report warns that this provision of care is in jeopardy because of the number of churches at risk of closure. It is published as many faith groups develop a wide variety of health care services based in their buildings, a trend sure to continue following Lord Darzi's report into the NHS, which recommends more emphasis on health care in the community rather than hospitals.Rosie Dawson hosts this discussion on the existing supply of services, how churches and faith groups collaborate with multiple public sector organisations, why their offer is essential to reach especially minority communities - and a warning to the NHS not to dump the most difficult and vulnerable cases onto faith groups, unless they have the necessary resources to cope. Our speakers include:Sir Philip Rutnam, chair National Churches TrustMerron Simpson, chief executive of The Health Creation Alliance, improving health across all sectorsSteve Fouch, chair of Parish Nursing Ministries UKEsther Platt, from the Good Faith Partnership. on social prescribingRev Katy Hacker Hughes, priest pastor at St Marylebone Church, London, which has a GP on the premises.Rev Laurent Vernet, Britain’s first minister for drug addictionAmrick Singh Ubhi from the Nishkam Centre, BirminghamShahida Rahman, from Cambridge Central Mosque, on its Health HubFor further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

A bill to allow assisted dying in England and Wales will be put before the Commons on 16 October, the first time in nine years that MPs will have had the chance to vote on the issue. The Lords have debated it many times, but in all cases, the measures have been defeated. This time, with a new intake of Labour MPs, and support from the Prime Minister for a free vote, there is hope among supporters that it will progress.But this Religion Media Centre briefing shows there remains entrenched opposition, including from bishops, amid concern that disabled and vulnerable people will feel under pressure and safeguards will slip over time.In Islam, assisted suicide is absolutely prohibited, which will pose problems for the 10 per cent of medical professionals who are Muslim.The briefing addressed the theological argument that life is sacred, with a view that this is not just about deities or the afterlife, but extends to things held sacred in society such as a commitment to one another and once the red line has been crossed, it's gone. The discussion also made clear that people of faith take different positions on the issue but share a key concern to help people who die in pain.Those in favour spoke of the importance of giving people options and a choice. There was a reminder of the current reality that people are already killing themselves or dying agonising deaths and doctors are already making decisions which end life, such as switching off life support machines. Hosted by Ruth Peacock, speakers include:Kit Malthouse, Conservative MP for North West HampshireBishop Michael Beasley, Bishop of Bath and WellsProf Julian Hughes, Bristol Medical School, retired consultant in old age psychiatry and editor of 'The Reality of Assisted Dying: Understanding the Issues'Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain, chair of the Religious Alliance for Dignity in DyingNathan Stilwell, Campaigns and Communications Manager Humanists UKCanon Dr Malcolm Brown, The Director of Faith and Public LifeDr Nick Spencer, senior fellow Theos Think TankDr Azim Ahmed, Secretary General Muslim Council of WalesFor further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

One year on from Hamas' attack on Israel, we brought together British Muslim and Jewish community leaders to find out how the war had impacted life in this country.Their discussion illustrates how each group "mirrored each other". Both communities have faced spikes in hate crime, leading to feelings across the board that Britain is not a safe place anymore. Social media was "absolutely bitter" and physical violence culminated in riots targeting mosques across England. In particular, speakers gave examples of the way children have been caught up in the hatred, with swastikas painted on school desks, or Muslim children name-called and ostracised.But both communities have found some hope, in quiet acts of kindness from one faith group to another, stronger relationships of support, and lighter moments of friendship.Leo Devine hosted this discussion with:Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain, convenor of the Reform Beit Din, the Jewish law court for Reform Judaism in BritainDr Jonathan Boyd, Executive Director of Jewish Policy Research, on mits report suggesting a culture of ‘ambient antisemitism’ since 7 OctoberDave Rich, director of policy at the Community Security Trust, which provides security advice and training for Jewish organisationsIbrahim Syed, a co-ordinator at the Liverpool Region Mosque Network and founder of Wirral Deen CentreSheila el Dieb Bristol Muslim Strategic Leadership group, engaged in community relations work with the City Council and police liaisonMohammed Ali Amla, from Solutions Not SidesFor further information about RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Community and faith leaders from towns and cities across England have spoken of the importance of free and open discussion on the causes of the riots this summer. In a Religion Media Centre briefing, bringing together participants from our 11 Creating Connections events, they spoke of their local efforts to provide opportunities for dialogue between faith groups and their need for help in finding methods that work well.There was agreement that superficial large meetings were not enough. Instead, deep conversations are needed to understand the anger, disenfranchisement and frustration which caused the unrest. In particular, the sense of injustice among young people needs to be addressed.While welcoming signals from government that it is committed to working alongside faith groups on its five missions, such as safe streets or healthcare, they warned against being co-opted and said greater responsibility required proper resourcing. Hosted by Leo Devine, speakers included Rev Ian Rutherford, Methodist minister in Manchester; Manjit Kaur of SACRE Coventry; Simon Phillips, Leeds Jewish community; Rev Joanne Thorns, Communities Together Durham; Professor Jagbir Jhutti Johal, Birmingham; Steve Botham, Birmingham.For further information on RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The report into the fire at Grenfell Tower, which claimed 72 lives in 2017, says the disaster was a devastating critique of failure, incompetence, dishonesty and greed at all levels, in government and business. In a section on how religion was part of the story, the report said Muslims felt abandoned and neglected by the council. But there was one chink of hope. Faith and community organisations, which filled the vacuum left by the authorities and offered sanctuary and support, were described as "the best in humanity".In this Religion Media Centre briefing, faith leaders who were there on the front line offer their response to the report's findings and explain how collaboration between the faith groups emerged as people flocked to their buildings for help.Hosted by Ruth Peacock, the speakers are: -Bishop Graham Tomlin, formerly Bishop of Kensington -Abdurahman Sayed, CEO Al-Manaar, Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre -Rev Alan Everett, former vicar at St. Clement's Church, Notting Hill, and author of 'After the Fire' -Eddie Tulasiewicz, head of policy and public affairs, National Churches Trust -Nasima Khanom, psychotherapist working with survivors and relativesBishop Graham Tomlin, formerly Bishop of KensingtonAbdurahman Sayed, CEO Al-Manaar, Muslim Cultural Heritage CentreRev Alan Everett, former vicar at St. Clement's Church, Notting Hill, and author of 'After the Fire'Eddie Tulasiewicz, head of policy and public affairs, National Churches TrustNasima Khanom, psychotherapist working with survivors and relativesAbdulsami Arjumand, Muslim Charities ForumFor further information on RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The US Vice President Kamala Harris will be formally nominated as the Democrat's presidential candidate at the party’s convention in Chicago this week. With a Hindu mother, Baptist father and Jewish husband, she embodies religious pluralism in a diverse country. But will this make her more or less appealing to constituencies of faith, or the non-religious?In this Religion Media Centre briefing, the speakers considered how the Democrats, a party with 30 per cent non-religious and 60 per cent Christian, are finding common ground around values, as people decide how to vote, irrespective of faith. The briefing heard the view that the conservative white evangelical support of Donald Trump, with its particular take on Christianity, has pushed the Democrats towards greater clarity that religion and the state are separate and this is what binds their party in a big tent, including people of all faiths and none. Hosted by Rosie Dawson, the speakers were:Heidi Schlumpf, National Catholic Reporter senior correspondent, who is covering the ConventionRicha Karmarkar, reporter at Religion News Service, primarily covering HinduismAlan Cooperman, director of religion research at Pew Research CentreDr Melissa Deckman, Chief Executive Officer, Public Religion Research InstituteHemant Mehta, American author, blogger, and atheist activistSenator Kim Jackson, GeorgiaRev Canon Broderick Greer, Canon Precentor St John's Cathedral, DenverFor further information on RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Fear and anxiety immediately followed the riots which spread across England last week, with Muslims in particular afraid to leave the house because of the hatred and violence on the streets. But in this Religion Media Centre briefing, faith leaders described how within 24 hours, faith and community leaders sought and found solidarity and support from their neighbours, other faith groups, police, councils and what has been seen as the vast majority of the British public, appalled at what they were witnessing. Speakers made clear that these were race riots. No group has felt safe and communities of all kinds felt "triggered" by the fact that angry racist outbursts emerged so quickly and were so widespread. The contrast between violence and the overnight reversal to peace has left concerns and questions, which faith leaders addressed in this discussion. Questions about British identity, the need to call out and stop Islamophobia, the need for a government strategy for social cohesion, the essential work of continuing conversations in local communities, and the challenge for teachers dealing with the aftermath when schools return in September. Many of the participants on this call took part in the Religion Media Centre's Creating Connections events, bringing together faith representatives and the media in towns and cities across England. The host is Leo Devine and the speakers include RE advisers and teachers Ed Pawson, Dr Kate Christopher and Manju Kaur; Muslim leaders Julie Siddiqi and Imam Musharraf Hussein; Community leaders Amrick Singh Ubhi and Rev Dr Israel Oluwole Olofinjana; and journalists Gary Newby, Content Editor at ITV News Central, and Alex Strangwayes-Booth, formerly BBC and now with CTVC.For further information on RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

Violent thuggery in more than 20 towns and cities in England and Northern Ireland has targeted British Muslims, who are now in fear for their lives. Mosques have been attacked, hotels with asylum seekers have been surrounded by protesters, shops with Muslim owners have been ransacked or burned, and areas with high immigrant populations have been vandalised with cars overturned and torched, and bricks hurled through windows as families sat inside. Children as young as 14 have been arrested and many people have already been charged and imprisoned.In this RMC briefing, more than 20 community leaders from all parts of England tell their stories of riots, fear and distress, appeal for support to re-create stability, and express their anger that people outside the towns had come in to organise the trouble. They are shocked at the scale and ferocity of the attacks and while clean-up operations prove there is goodwill, there is also uncertainty over how to restore confidence among Muslims who are too afraid to leave their homes.Hosted by Ruth Peacock, guests were Zara Mohammed, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain; and Phil Champain, Director of the Faith and Belief Forum. Community leaders joined from Liverpool, Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, Bristol, Bradford, Middlesborough and Plymouth.For further information on RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

For a secular country hosting the 33rd Olympic Games, France finds itself dealing with religion dominating the headlines. The controversial tableau in the rain-swept opening ceremony depicting the Last Supper (or was it the Festival of Dionysius) with drag queens and a woman comedian wearing a crown, widely seen as representing Jesus, caused anger among the French Catholic bishops and conservative Christians across the globe.Then there was the silver for British swimmer Adam Peaty, who recovered his Olympics spirit with the help of a Christian spiritual adviser - the Olympics has more than 100 chaplains from five world religions. And there is continuing disquiet among French female athletes forbidden from wearing the hijab.In this briefing, our panel discusses all these stories and what they say about the understanding of laïcité - the separation of church and state - in France.Ruth Peacock hosted with a panel:Dr Graham Daniels, General Director, Christians in SportCarolyn Skinner, Sports Chaplaincy UKElise Ann Allen, Senior Correspondent for Crux in RomeCatherine Pepinster, journalist in the UKProf Jocelyne Cesari, French political scientist and Islamic studies scholarDr Jenny Uzzell, researcher on pagan studiesRev Robert Thompson, on The Last SupperFor more information on RMC briefings: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709

The three-day swearing in ceremony for MPs in the new parliament has proved a remarkably popular watch, with the oath of allegiance to the King spoken in English, Welsh, Scottish, Gaelic, Irish and Kernewek, on a wide variety of texts including the Bible, Quran, Bhagavad Gita, Sundar Gutka, Tanakh - and none.The latest tally of MPs’ religious affiliations, outside Christianity, is 12 Sikh, 25 Muslim, 9 Hindu and 14 Jewish. Humanists UK says 40 per cent took an affirmation without swearing on a sacred text - that leaves almost 60 per cent taking the oath on some version of the Bible. But to add confusion, not all religiously affiliated MPs swore on their holy book and at least one known atheist and eight humanists swore on the Bible.How is religion part of the sacred oath of allegiance, where MPs promise to "be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law"? And is the solemn oath, with whatever words, sufficient to secure basic honesty and trust among our MPs? Leo Devine watched practically every second of the ceremony and discussed the story with guests Paul Kerensa, retired Clerk at the Commons Frank Cranmer, and theologian Sister Gemma Simmonds.For more information on RMC briefings and podcasts: [email protected]: https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/X: https://twitter.com/RelMedCentre/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/religion-media-centre/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthZf6RVTqJki6oTQTB6qmwContact [email protected](+44) 0203 970 0709