Indonesia: 'cold lava' sweeps villages, killing 41
At least 41 people have died in Sumatra due to flash floods and 'cold lava' from Mount Marapi, the island's most active volcano. Heavy rains on Saturday caused torrents of ash and rocks to flow down the volcano, inundating two districts and damaging over 100 homes and public facilities. Seventeen people remain missing. Survivors described fleeing from the 'cold lava' – a mix of volcanic material and pebbles. Rina Devina used her cellphone as a torch to escape, recounting how her neighbour's house was flattened, and four neighbours died. 'Cold lava' or 'lahar' typically has temperatures below 50°C and moves like a slurry, incorporating debris in its path. Rescuers found 19 bodies in Canduang village and nine in Tanah Datar district. Experts blame recurring natural disasters on excessive exploitation of natural resources and poor development practices. Recent events around Mount Marapi include a deadly eruption last December, flash floods in February, and eruptions in April which disrupted flights, closed roads, and forced over 11,000 evacuations.
Spirit-led church movements overtaking atheism
In 2009, the UK's atheist bus ad campaign aimed to diminish the relevance of God but inadvertently spurred more spiritual dialogue. This misstep highlighted a broader decline in atheism and a resurgence in Christian movements, particularly Spirit-led churches, which are flourishing globally amidst a growing disenchantment with secularism. Despite the decline in mainstream church attendance and an increase in religiously unaffiliated individuals, vibrant new church plants are thriving, driven by a deep desire for authentic spiritual experiences. This growth is notable in Pentecostal congregations across South America, Africa, Asia, and even the UK, as observed by historian Tom Holland. The intellectual landscape is also shifting, with former critics of Christianity, like Peter Boghossian, moving away from aggressive atheism. Instead, they are now addressing the rise of 'woke' ideologies within academia. As atheism struggles to provide a fulfilling narrative, Christianity is attracting both intellectuals and the general populace by offering robust moral and existential answers. This renewed interest in the Christian faith is evident in various public expressions and increasing church involvement, signalling a significant cultural and spiritual shift.
Man claims God told him to shoot pastor but gun jammed
During a church service in Pennsylvania, a man attempted to shoot Pastor Glenn Germany but his gun jammed, preventing any harm. The assailant, Bernard J. Polite, 26, approached Pastor Germany while he was preaching at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock. The incident, captured during a Facebook Live broadcast, shows Deacon Clarence McCallister heroically tackling Polite, who later told authorities that "God told me to do it." Pastor Germany expressed gratitude for the divine intervention that spared his life and emphasized the incident's unifying effect on his congregation. Polite, who had no prior connection to the church, faces charges of aggravated assault and attempted homicide. Despite the attack, the community remains thankful as no one was physically harmed.
Keir Starmer faces Labour anger after Tory MP's defection
Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to welcome Tory MP Natalie Elphicke's defection to Labour has stirred mixed reactions among Labour MPs. Elphicke, previously a Conservative representative for Dover, made the unexpected switch, causing some Labour members to express confusion and dismay, despite leadership viewing it as a significant coup. Critics within the party, including Canterbury MP Rosie Duffield, find Elphicke’s switch puzzling, given her past criticisms of Labour’s policies and her controversial defence of her ex-husband, Charlie Elphicke, following his sexual assault conviction. The defection, happening just before Prime Minister's Questions, has complicated matters for Labour, already has candidates in Elphicke's constituency. (In practice, Mrs Elphicke will not contest the Dover election, as she plans to leave the Commons). Despite the internal discord and criticism from the Conservative side, labelling Elphicke as opportunistic, Sir Keir emphasises the broader strategic advantage of attracting former Conservative voters to Labour. This move, however, remains contentious among both Labour and Conservative members.
