Why a Christian singer will no longer attend awards shows
Christian singer and songwriter Forrest Frank has announced he will no longer attend awards shows, including the Dove Awards and Grammys, saying he already holds 'the greatest award of all time' — salvation in Christ. In a video on TikTok, Frank explained his conviction that he should not receive trophies for something created 'from Jesus and for Jesus.' He said he wrestled with this decision last year and has now chosen 'a stance of nonparticipation’, preferring to model humility rather than seek recognition. Frank clarified that he is not refusing to shine as a light in dark places but to avoid stages that glorify human achievement. Though nominated in several top categories, he declared that his real prize is having his 'name written in the Book of Life’. His statement challenges Christian artists to reconsider the tension between cultural acclaim and eternal reward, reminding believers that earthly fame will fade, but the name of Jesus endures for ever.
Sarah Mullally to become 106th Archbishop of Canterbury
The King has approved the appointment of the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury - the first woman ever to hold the post in over 1,400 years. Formerly England’s Chief Nursing Officer and a cancer nurse, Bishop Sarah has long described her vocation as 'an opportunity to reflect the love of God.' Ordained in 2001, she has served as Bishop of Crediton and later as Bishop of London, leading with compassion and inclusivity. In her statement, Bishop Sarah said she accepts this call 'in a spirit of service to God and others’, seeking to help the Church 'grow in confidence in the Gospel' and bring hope and healing through Christ’s love. Church leaders across the Anglican Communion have welcomed her appointment, commending her courage, integrity, and commitment to unity: however, GAFCON leaders have reacted with sorrow (see). Her installation at Canterbury Cathedral is scheduled for March 2026, following a ‘confirmation of election’ service at St Paul’s Cathedral in January.
Synagogue terrorist told police he killed ‘in name of IS’
Police have confirmed that Jihad al-Shamie, 35, phoned 999 claiming allegiance to IS moments after launching his deadly car and knife attack at Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester. Shamie drove into worshippers before stabbing several people, killing two men - Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz - who tried to stop him entering the synagogue. Wearing a fake suicide vest and armed with two knives, he was shot dead by police. Investigators say no evidence links him to organised terror networks, describing him as a possible 'lone wolf’. The swift actions of security staff, worshippers, and armed officers prevented greater loss of life. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is now examining whether police gunfire contributed to Daulby’s death or other injuries. Shamie, a Syrian-born British resident on bail for alleged rape, had a history of abusive relationships and disturbing radical views. The community remains in shock, mourning the victims while praising the courage of those who confronted the attacker and protected the congregation.
Young children taking knives to school, BBC finds
A BBC investigation has revealed that even very young children are taking knives into UK schools. Police recorded cases involving a four-year-old in Kent and a six-year-old in the West Midlands carrying a flick knife and threatening another pupil. In 2024, there were 1,304 knife-related incidents in schools and sixth-form colleges across England and Wales - 10% involving primary-age children. Though total offences have slightly declined, serious attacks have increased. Some schools, especially in high-risk areas such as the West Midlands, are now installing permanent 'knife arches' and handheld detectors. The mother of 15-year-old Sheffield pupil Harvey Willgoose, who was fatally stabbed at school earlier this year, is urging the government to fund metal detectors nationwide, saying, 'Kids are going to school frightened’. Police data shows most offenders are teenage boys, often carrying blades for self-protection. Educators and youth mentors warn that fear, broken families, and lack of community support are fuelling this crisis and are calling for deeper emotional education and stronger pastoral care.
