Faith Facts

• Christian rights advocate Mohaned Elnour was assaulted in Newcastle during a demonstration against violence in Sudan.
• The civil conflict between the Rapid Support Forces and Sudanese Armed Forces has led to unrest, even reaching communities in the UK.
• Many Sudanese rights activists in Britain face threats and violence due to their advocacy.

Violence and persecution against Christians sadly extend beyond national borders, impacting the faithful wherever they raise their voices for justice.

The courage of Mohaned Elnour in standing up for Biblical truth and speaking out against atrocities, even amid great personal risk, is a powerful example of living out one’s faith in the public square.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. We urge the Northumbria Police to conduct a detailed investigation into this assault, ensuring that those responsible face appropriate consequences.”

“We applaud Mr Elnour’s courage and conviction in speaking out about the atrocities taking place in Sudan without fear or favour, and rising to address the crowd once again, moments after being attacked.”

Standing firm in faith, let’s pray for those suffering religious persecution and resolve to uphold the dignity and liberty granted by God to all people.

Read the full article at Christian Today

Faith Facts

• A refreshed version of “Shine, Jesus, Shine” launches for a nationwide Christmas evangelism campaign.
• Nicole Hobday and Steve Thompson collaborated to bring new life to this beloved worship song.
• The Shine Your Light campaign aims to help churches share the gospel with two million people and expand outreach to prisons and shelters.

The cherished worship song “Shine, Jesus, Shine” has been newly recorded to support a major Christmas effort to share Christ’s love across the UK. Romford teacher Nicole Hobday, working with longtime musical director Steve Thompson, seeks to unite believers in worship and bold proclamation of the gospel this season.

“Last year, God gave me a vision of a nationwide worship movement where thousands of voices – across cities, churches, schools, and denominations – unite in song.”

This faith-driven initiative invites churches and believers to reach friends and neighbors during the Christmas season, encouraging unity and evangelism rooted in Christian conviction. The movement also includes a dedicated Shine Your Light programme expected to reach not only communities but also UK prisoners and those in homeless shelters.

“This year, we want to help churches embrace some of what we believe is our mission field, reaching young people, using social media effectively, and supporting Christians in witnessing at work.”

The campaign has seen tremendous growth, with participating churches rising from 750 in its first year to an anticipated 2,000 this season. Supporters are urged to register and shine God’s light in every corner of the nation.

Read the full story at Christian Today

Faith Facts

• Advent prepares us spiritually to receive Christ, reminding us of both His humble birth and His promised return.
• The season guards the true meaning of Christmas, encouraging us to center our hearts on Jesus instead of worldly distractions.
• Advent is God’s invitation to draw near, listen for His voice, and welcome His presence daily.

Advent gives Christian families a holy pause amid the bustle of December, re-centering on faith and the anticipation of Christ’s coming.

This season points us beyond traditions to the King of Kings, urging us to ready our hearts for His arrival and to live out biblical truth.

“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.”

(Mark 1:3 NIV)

Advent shields Christmas from becoming empty tradition by renewing minds through Scripture, defending the true gift found in Christ’s sacrifice.

Paul wrote,

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

(Romans 12:2 NIV)

As heaven proclaims Christ’s birth, Advent echoes that message—calling believers to remember not only the manger but also Christ’s future reign.

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”

(Luke 2:11 NIV)

Advent is an invitation; Jesus stands at the door and knocks, ready to enter every heart that welcomes Him.

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.”

(Revelation 3:20 NIV)

Let Advent reignite awe as we celebrate Christ’s first coming and eagerly await His return.

Lord Jesus Christ, as we wait this Advent, awaken our souls, prepare our hearts, and protect us from distractions.

Shine Your light through us, and come again in glory.

Amen.

This Advent, invite Christ to transform your home and heart.

Stay rooted in faith and proclaim the hope of His coming to family, friends, and community.

Read the full article at Christian Daily