OpenHeaven.com






Home   |   Contact Us   |   About Us



Home


>
Forums



Active Topics



Member List



Search



Register



Log In



Help



News



Free Download
Books & Videos




Articles



Links
Kingdom Revival
House Church
Market Place




Networking



Prayer



Library



Old Reports



Audio/Video
Live Webcasts




Contact Us



About Us




OpenHeaven.com
DIGEST ARCHIVE
by Article Titles
and Date


KINGDOM
GROWTH GUIDES


Ron's Newest Book
END OF THIS AGE
God's Intervention
on Planet Earth
Free Download


VOICE of
PROPHESY
FORUM


Kingdom
Prophetic
ARTICLES by
Ron McGatlin

RON'S KINGDOM
BOOKS
Free Download

PAT BOON'S
Fatherhood
Message and
Communion

Watch This
Powerful 2 min
Video

Baptized With
HOLY SPIRIT
AND FIRE

Holy Spirit
Filling/Baptism

Holy Spirit
Power
 

Deliverance
Ministry

VIDEO
Supernatural
Deliverance
Nick
Griemsmann

Hearing God

Deeper
Spiritual Life

RaisingThe
Dead


Billy Graham's
Message to
America - Video

How I Escaped
the
Mormon Temple



TOP NEWS - Worldwide Kingdom/Revival NEWS (Forum Locked Forum Locked)
OpenHeaven.com Forum : TOP NEWS - Worldwide Kingdom/Revival NEWS
Subject Topic: News From British Isles, Ireland, Europe and Worldwide Post Reply Post New Topic
Author
Message
<< Prev Topic | Next Topic >>
News Room
Admin Group
Admin Group


Joined: 07/25/2004
Online Status: Offline
Posts: 6553
Posted: 04/04/2013 at 2:52pm | IP Logged Quote News Room

 

Praise Reports - CLICK to return to Top of Bulletin

Vicar raises £10,000 by giving £550

A Church of England vicar who handed out £10 notes to his West Yorkshire congregation and asked them to invest it to help raise cash, has had his prayers answered. The Rev Richard Steel distributed £550 last November in the hope of raising money for repairs at St John's Church in Kirkheaton, near Huddersfield. Members of the church had used the cash to raise about £10,000, meaning the work could now go ahead, said Mr Steel. ‘It's inspired people. It's just taken off fantastically,’ he said. While almost £500,000 has already been raised over the past seven years towards repairs at St John's, Mr Steel said he decided to give his congregation a new challenge to find the remaining cash. Inspiration came from the parable of the talents, in which Jesus tells the story of a man who entrusts money to his servants, he said.

Praise:

God for the response to this challenge and for the result. (Mt.25:14-30)

More:

Thank you for our children!

Now that spring is here, thousands of children across Russia and her neighbouring countries are eagerly anticipating the summer that follows, and with it - more than 300 Christian summer camps that Slavic Gospel Association partners help make possible each year. Next to Christmas, summer camp season is perhaps the most important time of the year for reaching needy children with the Gospel. Children from believing families invite their unbelieving friends to camp, churches invite unbelieving families in their neighbourhoods to allow their children to attend, and children who attended the previous year are eager to spread the word. Only eternity will reveal how many boys and girls first encountered the living Saviour at a summer camp in Russia.

Praise:

God in advance for the 2013 camp season; as it nears ask God to provide the resources needed to reach as many children as possible. (Ps.136:1)

More:

Return to Top

British Isles and Ireland - CLICK to return to Top of Bulletin

Benefit cuts are 'unjust', say Churches

Churches say the benefit cuts which came into place April 1 are ‘unjust’ and hit the poorest hardest. The changes include the introduction of the so-called 'Bedroom Tax', which will mean cuts to housing benefit for some social housing tenants with a spare room. Around a third of families in social housing will be affected by the change. The up-rating of working-age benefits and tax credits at around a third of the rate of inflation will mean a real-term cut in payments, affecting especially those on the minimum wage and people out of work. The Government hopes to make savings of 20% by replacing the Disability Living Allowance with the Personal Independence Payment. The warning has come from the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church, the United Reformed Church and the Church of Scotland, who say that the most vulnerable are paying a ‘disproportionate price’ in the Government's austerity measures.

Pray:

that the Government will consider those that are most vulnerable and make allowances and be prepared to listen. (Is.10:1)

More:

Teachers attack ‘re-branded’ sexism

Teachers are warning that young people are being damaged by an over-sexualised culture. The National Union of Teachers Annual Conference heard claims that sexism is being ‘re-branded’ as something fashionable and mainstream. Delegates criticised the ‘raunch culture’ of lap-dancing clubs and pole dancing saying it can have a ‘disastrous effect on the self-image of girls’. They said that old-fashioned sexism has not gone away, but has been re-invented into something that appears to be ‘ironic or empowering’. There are concerns that pupils are growing up in a culture where pornographic images are widely available, cosmetic surgery is advertised and there is a ‘fixation’ with staying slim. Teachers fear this can undermine young women’s self-confidence and contribute to problems such as eating disorders and anxiety about their appearance. This can disrupt both girls’ school work and their social life, say teachers.

Pray:

for the creeping tide of the sexualisation of young people to be turned back. (Th.4:3-5)

More:

Archbishop Justin Welby warns against trusting fallible leaders

Justin Welby has used his first Easter sermon as Archbishop of Canterbury to warn of the dangers of investing too much faith in frail and fallible human leaders, be they politicians or priests. Blind belief in the power of the individual to bring about true change in any sphere, he said, was simplistic and wrong, and led inevitably to disillusionment and disappointment. In a lengthy broadside against what he termed the ‘hero leader culture’ with its automatic expectations of quick, easy and gratifying solutions to even the most intractable problems. Welby said that only by acknowledging God and trusting in His power could human beings escape ‘cynical despair’ and fear. ‘Human fallibility recognised, God's sovereignty trusted; these are also the only stable foundations for human beings in society,’ he said. ‘Setting people or institutions up to heights where they cannot but fail is mere cruelty.’

Pray:

for us all, including our leaders, to heed God's call and place our trust in His ways. (Ps.119:60)

More:

Bishop: Church must lead by example

The Church must be an example of reconciliation to the rest of society, says the Bishop of Edmundsbury and Ipswich. The Right Rev Nigel Stock said he had been impressed by the new Archbishop of Canterbury's own priority on reconciliation within the Church and the nation. Bishop Stock said: ‘The Church can influence society and make a real difference, but we do need to be a model of living together and reconciliation ourselves not least over the issue of women becoming bishops and over the differing views on issues of human sexuality.’ Part of leading by example, he said, meant taking care of the least well off in society. He praised the church-run Ipswich Winter Night Shelter which has provided shelter and hospitality for 12 homeless people through the winter. Bishop Stock said: ‘This project continues to rely on the hard work and dedication of many people whose willingness to help is an inspiration for the whole of Ipswich.’

Pray:

for reconciliation in the Church so that it will be able to lead the nation by example. (2Co.5:18)

More:

David Cameron 'feeds fears of Christian persecution'

Lord Carey, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, has attacked David Cameron for doing more than any other recent political leader to feed Christian anxieties that they are part of a persecuted minority. In an article for the Daily Mail he wrote: 'I like David Cameron and believe he is genuinely sincere in his desire to make Britain a generous nation where we care for one another and where people of faith may exercise their beliefs fully. But it was a bit rich to hear that the Prime Minister has told religious leaders that they should 'stand up and oppose aggressive secularisation' when it seems that his Government is aiding and abetting this aggression every step of the way.’ He added ‘many Christians’ doubted the sincerity of Mr Cameron's pledge to support their rights, with a recent poll showing two-thirds believed they are now part of a ‘persecuted minority’.

Pray:

for our PM and other politicians that they will stand against Christian persecution. (2Cor.2:17)

More:

Religious Education standards ‘unacceptable’, MPs warn

A new report by a group of MPs has found that almost half of those teaching Religious Education (RE) in secondary schools have no qualifications in the subject. The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Religious Education also revealed that one in four primary school children were being taught by a teaching assistant. ‘This is unacceptable and in many cases has a detrimental impact on the quality of RE’, the report concluded. About half of RE teachers lack confidence in teaching the subject, whilst 40 per cent have ‘inadequate access to continuing professional development.’ Stephen Lloyd, the Liberal Democrat chair of the committee, said that a number of Government policies, including the decision to exclude RE from the English Baccalaureate, had ‘served to lower’ the status of the subject. He added: ‘It is illogical to think that we can dilute the professionalism and expertise needed to teach RE well.’

Pray:

that the teaching of our faith to the young will not be neglected. (Pr.6:23)

More:

Scottish Minister condemns £1.6 million grant to homosexual group

A Scottish pastor has criticised the Scottish Government’s decision to give £1.6 million to a homosexual organization’s school campaign. Rev David Robertson, minister of St Peter’s Free Church in Dundee and director of the Solas Centre for Public Christianity, warned that the decision to give so much taxpayers’ money to Equality Network will further undermine Christianity and do little to stop bullying. He commented: The Equality Network have a definition of homophobia which means that anyone who disagrees with their position is homophobic. For example, I am not homophobic but am opposed to the redefinition of marriage. The Equality Network has now been given money, not to combat homophobic bullying, but to promote their own views and to suppress any other view. Ironically this is more likely to increase bullying than to decrease it.’ The Scottish Government is not giving money to combat other kinds of bullying.

Pray:

that the funding allocated to this group will be withdrawn as it promotes homosexuality alone to the detriment of Christianity.

More:

Return to Top

Europe - CLICK to return to Top of Bulletin

Christian satellite TV affected by Cyprus banking crisis

SAT-7 says its financial difficulties have been ‘aggravated’ by the banking crisis affecting Cyprus. The Christian satellite channel's international office is based in the Cypriot capital, Nicosia, where the banks are only just reopening after nearly two weeks of forced closure. The organisation admitted to supporters at its Network 2013 conference last week that it is exploring new strategies for income generation as a result of increasing financial challenges. Dr Terence Ascott, SAT-7's Chief Executive, says ‘For four years we've operated with a flat budget which has been very challenging. Now if we don't significantly increase our support we will be unable to sustain our programmes at their current levels.’ Despite the financial struggles, supporters heard how the channel is being used to promote reconciliation and strengthen the faith of suffering Christians at a time of unprecedented upheaval in the Middle East and North Africa.

Pray:

for a speedy resolution to this financial crisis and that alternative funding will be found for SAT-7 (Ps.119:153)

More:

Six European member states launch joint action against Google

The Financial Times reports that the EU's largest data protection authorities have launched a joint action against internet giant Google, in a move to force the company's compliance with EU privacy rules of which it is allegedly in breach. The paper says that the decision is the EU's first coordinated and formal procedure by member states against a single company and highlights growing frustration with Google. The Washington Post reports that Google faces possible fines after six member states - France, UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands - held meetings with the internet search engine company which ielded ‘no changes’.

Pray:

for a just outcome in this action against a multi-national company that believes it has all the rights. (Ecc.5:8)

More:

Return to Top

Worldwide - CLICK to return to Top of Bulletin

NIGERIA: Idolatry and occult

The increased dependence of Nigeria’s political and even 'so called' church leaders on occult powers is very worrying. The experiences of two State governors in Anambra and Ogun were publicized but many other governors and their cabinets are involved in swearing to oaths at shrines to affirm allegiance. This is ungodly because idolatry brings about God's wrath in many ways. We are asked to pray for a move of God's spirit across the land, bringing transformation and renewal. Pray that all leaders involved in occult practices will be convicted by God and repent of their wickedness.

Pray:

that those who have trusted in the true God will have excellent results in their governance and this will be a good example for those who are trusting the devil. (Dan 1:10)

More:

North Korea: New strategic line

In recent weeks the communist state has issued a series of threats against both South Korean and US targets, to which the US has responded with high-profile movements of advanced aircraft and warships around the Korean peninsula. (See Prayer Alert 12-2013) Most people believe North Korea does not want all-out war, even though they intend restarting facilities at its Yongbyon nuclear complex. The move came a day after Pyongyang announced a ‘new strategic line focusing on its nuclear programme and economy.' Life in North Korea is famine ravaged. A man in South Hwanghaewas killed by firing squad after it was learned he had eaten his two children, the Sunday Times reported recently. North Korea would neither confirm nor deny the account of the execution but it is not the first time that the communist regime is believed to have punished residents who resorted to cannibalism in order to stay alive. Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/report-starving-north- korean-father-resorts-cannibalism-article-1.1250773#ixzz2PO2 jG2i6

Pray:

that the aggressive rhetoric and military posturing will not result in counter-actions and pray for stability and calm communications. (Ps.2:1-2 & Ps.113:4-6)

More:

Saudi Arabia: Declares destruction of all churches in region

Earlier this month news reports surfaced out of Saudi Arabia that raised the red flag for Christians. Todd Nettleton, a spokesman for the Voice of the Martyrs USA, says, ‘The Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia has declared that it is ‘necessary to destroy all the churches of the region.’ Saudi Arabia is ranked second on the Open Doors World Watch List of 50 countries where persecution of Christians is the most severe. There is no provision for religious freedom in the constitution of this Islamic kingdom. The Grand Mufti said this in a meeting with Kuwaiti officials wanting to confirm Sharia’s position on churches and he said, ‘If you have churches in Kuwait they should be destroyed.’ The interesting thing about this is that there are no churches in Saudi Arabia. There are no church buildings that are allowed to exist there. So he was trying to export this ideology to the surrounding countries.

Pray:

for God’s protection to be over churches in Kuwait, Oman, Yemen, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. May the UN Human Rights Council take a stand for freedom of religion in the area. (Ps.3:7-8)

More:

Lebanon: Palestinians are Syria's 'double refugees'

Refugee camps were set up by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency in 1949 for Palestinian refugees. The Shatila refugee camp, which was already overcrowded, is now home to around 33,000 Palestinians seeking refuge in Lebanon where they face overcrowding and poor conditions. At least a fifth of the houses in the camps are not fit to live in, with many lacking walls, roofs, windows or toilet facilities. In camps where homes do not have water or electricity, there are concerns that the increase in refugees will trigger hygiene issues. Palestinians already living in the camps are doing what they can to support the new arrivals, but as Palestinians are not permitted to work in many professions in Lebanon, they mostly work in low-paid jobs, meaning their own resources are thin. There are as many as 15 people living in one room. Many are ill and malnourished. Inflation and the lack of jobs means refugees can't afford to eat properly and children are facing years out of education.

Pray:

for the release of more resources for Palestinian and Syrian refugees. May God in His mercy raise up more agencies to provide assistance to those at risk of falling through the support net. (Ps.140:12)

More:

Syria: A report from Aleppo

A Christian living in Syria writes, ‘The situation here in Aleppo is getting progressively worse. Yesterday, as all churches decided to have a united prayer day, the rebels sent three rockets - mortars. These exploded just a couple of hours before the gathering a few metres from the main gate of the church. No injuries; just a few damages here and there with some affected cars. But with all this, just to let you know that in spite all the rockets and explosions, more than 300 members and worshipers attended the prayer service meeting on that Friday. PTL. ‘

Pray:

for that the Lord’s protection to be over those still trying to serve His purposes in Syria. May He be in control of everyday situations and may they know his presence continually. (Ps.109:21)

More:

Sri Lanka: Recent anti-Christian incidents

A sudden increase in violence against the Christian community by Buddhists in Sri Lanka has been reported. Barnabas Fund received news last week of ten anti-Christian incidents in different parts of the country during March. The most violent of them was an attack on Pastor Pradeep Kumara’s house that was used for worship meetings. A mob forced open the gate, broke into the premises and damaged the property while the family were out. Police were called but they could not control the mob. The attack went on for three and a half hours; the assailants desisted once they had forced Pradeep's wife to promise there would be no more worship meetings at the house. The pastor has faced intense opposition to his ministry.

Pray:

that the threats and violent acts against Christians would not stop God’s purposes for the region. May the church grow in unity, faith and perseverance. (Pr.2:12)

More:

China: Armed raid on Christians

Christians in remote Xinjiang province are suspected of being a cult after a violent armed raid with guns and electric batons on their house church. One Christian named as Sister Xu remains in detention. Another house church leader Brother Shen, was summoned for interrogation separately, which caused an 'episode' relating to his heart condition. Christian leader, Sister Cao, fled the area fearing she would be detained. All are members of the same house church. In March officials visited Sister Xu's home while she was hosting a prayer meeting. The 14 assembled Christians did not answer the door and officials left. Later that evening armed police arrived to confiscate property, take fingerprints and blood samples from Xu, her son and husband before taking them to the police station for written statements. It was there that Xu's husband saw information on a computer alleging links between the house church and a Chinese religious cult.

Pray:

for God to strengthen Sister Xu, protect Sister Cao and fill all members of this house church afresh with His Holy Spirit. Ask God to touch the hearts of officials investigating the church. (Is.40:31)

More:

Back to Top
View News Room's Profile Search for other posts by News Room

Sorry, you can NOT post a reply.
This forum has been locked by a forum administrator.

  Post Reply Post New Topic
Printable version Printable version

Forum Jump
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot create polls in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum