Dodgers player says 'God is absolutely good' after World Series win
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Blake Treinen openly praised God following his team’s 2024 World Series victory over the New York Yankees, emphasising his deep Christian faith. In a post-game interview, Treinen described feeling 'overwhelming joy’: asked who he thought of during the final out, he simply replied, 'God’. His faith is evident on his social media, where he highlights his love for Jesus and shares his convictions. In 2023, Treinen spoke out against the Dodgers’ recognition of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a controversial group he views as disrespectful to Christianity. Despite the potential professional risks, he made clear that his loyalty to Christ and Christian values is more important than his career. Treinen, who has publicly shared his faith since at least 2016, continues to honour his commitment to God, reflecting his unwavering devotion through both his words and actions.
Christian coalition launches over 200 training hubs to mobilise pastors
James O Davis, founder of the Global Church Network (GCN), launched a coalition with a vision to fulfil the Great Commission by 2030. Inspired by a call from the Holy Spirit in 2001, Davis aims to see billions come to Christ by creating 800 leadership training hubs worldwide, mobilising one million ministers to spread the Gospel. Recently, GCN established 200 training hubs across six continents, with additional expansion in regions like the Balkans and South Africa. These hubs provide theological and leadership training, with a focus on equipping pastors in hard-to-reach areas. Davis, along with GCN, hopes to 'catch a harvest' by tying relational knots across a global network. The FINISH 2030 initiative, launched at Martin Luther’s graveside in Germany, aligns with the two thousandth anniversary of the Church, which will be celebrated in Jerusalem in 2030.
Badenoch’s first PMQs as Tory leader
In her debut at Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) as the new leader of the opposition, Kemi Badenoch showcased a robust approach, promising 'constructive opposition' and addressing both US-UK relations and domestic issues. She began by questioning Labour leader Keir Starmer on his party’s previous criticisms of Donald Trump, who had recently won the US presidential election. She suggested Starmer extend an invitation for Trump to address Parliament, though he did not respond directly. Starmer, however, affirmed his commitment to maintaining strong US-UK ties. Badenoch then pivoted to the Budget, criticising Labour's 'family farms tax' and questioning how it would affect farmers. Despite tensions, both leaders congratulated Trump on his victory. Badenoch’s performance was seen as confident, signalling her readiness to challenge Starmer and the current administration's policies on multiple fronts.
What a Trump victory means for the UK
Donald Trump's presidential victory brings uncertainty for the UK, as his often unpredictable style prompts questions on future relations. Both UK and US leaders have engaged diplomatically, with Keir Starmer and foreign secretary David Lammy working to strengthen ties. Recently, Starmer and Lammy met Trump in New York, with Trump accommodating their visit - a gesture signalling diplomatic goodwill. Lammy has also made several trips to the USA, showing an effort to understand Trump’s 'America First' priorities. However, despite efforts at outreach, Lammy acknowledges potential friction, especially on European defence spending and the USA's shifting focus towards Asia. Concerns loom over future support for Ukraine, and there is apprehension about potential economic impacts, including tariffs and trade disagreements. While the UK has prepared for various outcomes, a Trump second term is expected to be marked by a transactional, sometimes tense, relationship that impacts both nations.
