Jamaica: UN meeting about seabed mining
The UN's International Seabed Authority (ISA) has met to discuss new rules for ocean floor mineral extraction, despite concerns over economic and environmental risks. Supporters argue that deep sea mining will provide essential materials like cobalt and nickel for the global energy transition, while critics fear it could devastate ecosystems and disrupt migratory routes. Twenty-seven countries are calling for a temporary halt. The ISA council will negotiate a ‘mining code’ for regulating ocean floor mining. Nations remain divided on the draft, with many urging a slower process for proper scrutiny. The urgency stems from an expected application by Nauru for a mining licence. Critics argue that deep sea mining's economic viability remains unproven, with rising costs and significant environmental trade-offs.
USA: Trump survives assassination attempt, names running mate
Two days after Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt, he was formally adopted by the Republican party as its nominee for the US presidential election in November. He has chosen JD Vance, a 39-year-old former venture capitalist and Ohio senator, as his running mate. Vance, who came to prominence in 2016 when he published an autobiography entitled ‘Hillbilly Elegy’, at that time compared Trump to Hitler and called him an ‘idiot’. However, since then he has become a steadfast supporter, even attending court to support Trump at his hush money trial. He has blamed Joe Biden for the assassination attempt, citing Biden’s rhetoric against Trump as a contributing factor.
First A Sound of Freedom, now A Sound of Hope
One year after the impactful release of 'Sound of Freedom’, Angel Studios have launched 'Sound of Hope’, focusing on Donna Martin and her church in Texas. Motivated by her mother’s love and dedication, Donna and her husband persuaded their church to adopt 77 children from troubled backgrounds. The film, featuring moving performances by Nika King and Demetrius Grosse, delves into the profound trials and rewards of adoption. The movie’s central Christian message aims to encourage viewers to support foster care and consider adoption. Through her story, the film showcases the transformative power of love and faith in addressing the needs of vulnerable children, offering a message of hope and action to its audience. 'Sound of Hope' seeks to inspire individuals and communities to make a tangible difference in the lives of at-risk children.
A gift of a million prayers for France
Love France is an initiative by International Prayer Connect and its partners, including the World Prayer Centre in Birmingham, aiming to bless, celebrate, and connect the worldwide Christian church with the Church across France as it runs various Christian events, outreaches and activities during the games this Summer. The project’s vision includes mobilising global prayer support for France, celebrating positive developments in the church community, and fostering connections through cultural, artistic, and sporting events. Key activities feature the 'France 1 Million' campaign that invites a gift of a million prayers from the worldwide Church for France this summer. A prayer guide and other resources are being published with daily prayer pointers: see An online prayer and discussion platform app will run for the duration of the main and para-games. See Churches are encouraged to get involved with the Eric Liddell 100 Celebrations, honouring the legacy of the famous athlete and missionary.
