Roundup: British Methodists, Yass Uniting, starvation in Africa, school suspensions, eco-justice training

Methodist church challenged to take ‘tough decisions’ for growth

In a report to the annual Methodist Conference, taking place this week in Southport, England, the Methodist General Secretary, the Rev. Dr Martyn Dr Atkins spoke of his belief that the Church must change to fulfil its calling in contemporary society.

Uniting Church celebrates twice

The current Minister Apelu Tielu has just completed a nine-month internship in the Yass Parish. He will be ordained at his home congregation, Wesley Uniting Church, Forrest ACT on Saturday July 16 and formally inducted into the Yass and Rye Park congregations the following day.

Problem gamblers can’t judge cost of pokies – others have no excuse

Governments should make decisions for the public good, not for the loudest minority, no matter how well-funded it is.

Methodists commit to carbon reduction but continue to profit from fossil fuels

The British Methodist Conference has said that failure to acknowledge the urgent need for radical cuts in greenhouse gas emissions is “morally irresponsible” in a new statement adopted by the Church.

Millions in east Africa face starvation after worst drought in 60 years

UK-based international development agency Christian Aid is proceeding with an emergency humanitarian appeal to help people across the east and Horn of Africa after two failed rainy seasons have left ten million on the brink of starvation.

Rise in school suspensions not helping those most in need

UnitingCare Burnside argues that too many indigenous students, children from foster care and from disadvantaged homes are being suspended.

WCC hails independence of South Sudan

South Sudan achieves its independence on Saturday July 9, 2011, and the new president has received congratulations and an assurance of continued solidarity from the Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, general secretary of the World Council of Churches.

Christian youth to be trained for eco-justice

Young Christians aged 18-30 years are invited to apply for a program, organised by the World Council of Churches and the Lutheran World Federation, addressing the links between environmental and socio-economic justice.