USA: Trump questions Harris’s ethnic identity
During a convention for black journalists, Donald Trump questioned Kamala Harris' racial identity, falsely claiming that she has only recently emphasised her black heritage. Trump remarked, ‘I didn't know she was black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn black’, and questioned whether she was Indian or black. Harris, the first black and Asian-American vice-president, dismissed Trump's remarks as divisive and disrespectful, emphasising that America's diversity is a strength. Her parents are Indian and Jamaican, and she attended Howard University and joined the Congressional Black Caucus in 2017. One critic asked, ‘Who appointed Donald Trump the arbiter of Blackness?’ He has a history of racially charged attacks, including false claims about Barack Obama's birthplace and questioning Nikki Haley's eligibility for presidency. Harris has faced a series of attacks since becoming the Democratic nominee: some Republicans have labelled her a ‘DEI vice-president’ - a reference to diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes.
French Bible Society: 200K New Testaments giveaway at Paris Olympics
The French Bible Society is set to distribute a special edition of the New Testament during the upcoming Paris Olympics. They will hand out 140,000 French and 60,000 English copies, aiming to leave a "lasting legacy beyond the athletic arenas." This edition includes testimonies from Christian athletes like French handball champion Joël Abati and Australian high jumper Nicola Olyslagers. The initiative, named "More Precious than Gold," is inspired by 1 Peter 7 and underscores the value of faith. The distribution is a collaborative effort with various Christian sporting ministries, highlighting shared values that transcend sport and spirituality. The initial plan to print 100,000 French and 30,000 English copies was expanded due to high demand. Over 11 million visitors are expected in Paris for the Olympics and Paralympics, which conclude on September 8. Jonathan Boulet, General Secretary of the French Bible Society, emphasized the enduring impact of the Bible and the importance of accessibility provided by Bible Societies worldwide. This initiative is one of over 500 Church and Christian ministry projects during the games. Visit www.lovefrance.world for more information.
Nigerian missionary in China: We have the fire of God
IG, a Nigerian missionary in China for two decades, faced immense hardship during his first two years, often going without food and shelter. Despite these challenges, his determination to fulfill God's call kept him going. He had a transformative experience in Nigeria, where he found faith during high school, initially attending Bible studies to impress a girl but eventually feeling a deep conviction to give his life to Jesus. At 18, after his spiritual awakening, he pursued a path of outreach and ministry. Feeling called to be a missionary, he initially attempted to go to Korea but ended up in China after a layover in Hong Kong. There, he struggled with homelessness and hunger but persevered, eventually connecting with other Nigerians and finding stability. IG began ministering in Guangzhou, where he married a Chinese translator and had three children. His work faced instability due to government crackdowns, leading him to rebuild his ministry multiple times. Despite these challenges, he continues to lead two churches, noting the Chinese appreciation for African preachers, who are seen as having "God's fire."
First Prime Ministers Question Time of New Parliament
Keir Starmer marked a significant milestone Wednesday with his first PMQs as Prime Minister, and the first for a Labour leader in over a decade. Here are some key takeaways: - The tone was notably more amicable than in past sessions. The leader of the opposition, Rishi Sunak, even made a self-deprecating joke, saying Team GB wouldn't want his advice on "how to win." - Sunak focused his questions on national security, an area where both Conservatives and Labour show strong support, particularly for Ukraine. - When Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey called for more support for carers, Starmer commended Davey as a "tireless campaigner" for carers' rights. - The SNP's Stephen Flynn adopted a more confrontational approach, criticizing the prime minister over the two-child benefit cap. - Several new faces appeared in the Commons. Questions came from Green Party co-leader Adrian Ramsay and Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe, while Reform leader Nigel Farage observed the proceedings. This PMQs session highlighted a mix of unity and contention as new leaders and members engaged in the debate.
