Donald Trump’s administration has ordered US embassies to halt new student visa appointments as it prepares to expand social media vetting of international applicants. The move is part of a broader crackdown on US universities, which Trump accuses of harbouring left-wing and antisemitic sentiment amid pro-Palestinian campus protests. Embassies are directed to cancel unscheduled interviews, with warnings of ‘significant implications’ for visa processing. Critics say this threatens the rights and futures of international students, who often pay higher fees and significantly fund the universities. The administration has frozen millions in university funding, revoked thousands of visas, and moved to deport foreign students - many actions now under legal challenge. Harvard University, a prime target, recently had its ability to host international students suspended, though a federal judge blocked the decision: for a view on how much its international students contribute, see Critics argue the social media screening policy infringes on free speech, while Trump insists it protects national security and combats extremism.
We warmly invite you to take part in the Global Day of Prayer for the Jewish World on Sunday 8th June 2025 from 7am Jerusalem time (UTC+3), for a worldwide call for believers everywhere to unite in intercession for the salvation of Israel and the Jewish people.
This special day of global prayer coincides with Pentecost Sunday, a profoundly significant moment in the biblical calendar when the Holy Spirit was poured out in Jerusalem. What better time to lift our voices together on behalf of the Jewish people, through whom this blessing first came?
We believe the Lord is calling His Church to stand in the gap and pray for a fresh outpouring of His Spirit over Israel -
“until all Israel is saved” (Romans 11:26).
This year’s downloadable guide is packed with Scripture-based prayers, key teaching points, and a simple yet powerful BLESS card to help us pray daily for five friends who don’t yet know Jesus.
More Info about the Day of Prayer Download the Guide Register
10 Days of Prayer: Prayer Guides
To help us prepare our hearts for this Global Day of Prayer, we invite you to take part in 10 Days of Prayer for the Jewish World, running from Friday 30th May to Sunday 8th June.
Two specially crafted guides are available:
For Adults – "Watchmen Arise"
This devotional-style guide is designed to lead you day-by-day through powerful themes such as God’s covenant, revival, reconciliation, and the return of the King. Each day includes Scripture, a short teaching, focused prayer points, and opportunities to engage in watchman-style intercession.
For Children – "Children’s Pentecost Adventure"
Created especially for children aged 6–12, this colourful, interactive prayer guide helps young hearts understand God’s love for the Jewish people.
Each day includes a Bible story, prayer, memory verse, worship song, 'Justin's Thought' and fun family action idea. It’s a brilliant resource for families, schools, and churches.
Special Article: The Great Commission and Israel by Dr Jason Hubbard
Why Pray for Israel and the Jewish People?
The Great Commission is not complete without Israel. In this powerful article, Dr. Jason Hubbard unpacks the deep biblical connection between God's call to reach the nations and His covenant purposes for the Jewish people. From the promises to Abraham to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, God has always intended to bless the nations through Israel—and bring Israel into her full inheritance through the Gospel.
As we prepare for the Global Day of Prayer for the Jewish World on 8th June, we invite you to explore this teaching and join with believers around the world in prayer. Let us cry out together for the salvation of Israel, the fullness of the Gentiles, and the glory of God to cover the earth.
“All Israel will be saved.” — Romans 11:26
Let’s pray it in!
Read / Download the Full Article
Let’s Pray in Unity – Young and Old Together
As we look toward Pentecost 2025, we believe this is a divine moment to gather in united, global prayer for the Jewish people. Whether you’re a prayer leader, a parent, a pastor, or a child who loves Jesus - your prayers matter. The Lord is stirring hearts across generations to cry out for the destiny of Israel to be fulfilled.
Let’s pray together:
- For the eyes of the Jewish people to be opened to Yeshua, their Messiah.
- For a great harvest of souls among Jewish communities worldwide.
- For the Church to arise in love, humility, and fervent intercession.
Mark your calendar, download the guides, and invite others to join.
Let’s make Sunday 8th June a historic day of global, united prayer - young and old, from every tribe and tongue - crying out for Israel and the nations.
For the Glory of the Lamb!
Dr Jason Hubbard – Director
International Prayer Connect
www.ipcprayer.org
We’re excited to invite you to be part of something powerful - 21 Days of Prayer for France!
Following the incredible Love France 2024 initiative during the games, believers across France and around the world are keeping the momentum going. This special prayer guide, produced by Impact France, has been designed to help Christians from every nation join together in praying for God’s blessing, renewal, and transformation across France.
For 21 days, you’ll journey through daily topics focused on the Church, families, youth, communities, culture, and those in need. Each day offers short Bible verses, focused prayer points, and stories that will encourage your faith. Whether you pray on your own, as a family, in your church, or with a small group, this guide is your invitation to stand in prayer alongside our brothers and sisters in France.
We believe this is a time to:
Bless France with our prayers, asking God to pour out His love, healing, and power.
Celebrate the unity and creativity emerging among churches, ministries, and believers across the nation.
Connect with the amazing ways God is working through sports, arts, music, and outreach — and discover how you can be part of it!
No matter your age, location, or experience with prayer, you are welcome. We’re calling on young people, families, seniors, prayer groups, and churches everywhere to lift their voices for France - a nation with a rich Christian history and a great need for revival today.
How to Get Involved:
- Read / Download the 21-day guide
- Set aside a few minutes each day to pray
- Share this invitation with friends and your church
Let’s believe together for a wave of blessing over France that touches and transforms hearts, homes, and cities!
READ / DOWNLOAD the 21 Days ‘Regeneration!’ Prayer Guide
May God bless you as you uphold our dear nation.
In Him,
Matthew Glock - Coordinator
Love France
Alpha course record numbers
23 May 2025
In 2024, Alpha International experienced its most fruitful year since launching in 1977, with over two million people worldwide participating in Alpha courses. The globally recognised programme, known for its welcoming small-group format and open discussions about faith, was delivered through more than 81,000 courses across 146 countries, supported by 43,000 churches and organisations. A significant milestone was the launch of the Alpha Youth Series in November, which quickly drew over 250,000 young participants across 53 nations. Remarkably, one-third of all attendees were under 25, signalling a growing hunger for spiritual truth among younger generations. The strongest regional growth occurred in Africa, where participation surged by 47%. CEO Miles Toulmin attributes Alpha’s success to localised video content which allows people to hear the Gospel in their own language and context. With increasing numbers of young people seeking answers to issues like loneliness and mental health, Alpha continues to offer a space for spiritual encounter and gospel transformation in this season of Quiet Revival. See
Joe Rogan is 'attending church' consistently
23 May 2025
Joe Rogan, the world’s most listened-to podcaster, is regularly attending church and exploring Christianity with increasing openness, according to Canadian apologist Wes Huff. Huff, who appeared on Rogan’s podcast in January for an in-depth discussion on Christianity and Scripture, confirmed ongoing communication and Rogan’s consistent church attendance. Known for probing life’s deepest questions, Rogan has recently expressed scepticism about atheistic explanations for the universe and said he finds the resurrection of Jesus more believable than the Big Bang theory. He has remarked, 'Jesus makes more sense’, expressing personal resonance with the idea of a Creator and Redeemer. His shift reflects a wider resurgence of spiritual hunger, particularly among young people. Huff noted that teenagers are increasingly requesting Bibles, saying, 'All my friends are reading this thing’. A Gallup report confirms that the long-term decline in US religiosity has now stabilised. Though Rogan has not made a public profession of faith, his journey signals a significant cultural moment as high-profile voices express openness to Jesus and the Gospel message.
Keir Starmer has announced a wide-ranging new UK-EU agreement covering trade, defence, youth mobility, and travel arrangements. Touted as part of a 'hat-trick' of international trade achievements alongside deals with the US and India, the agreement seeks to ease post-Brexit disruptions. Key measures include continued EU fishing access to UK waters until 2038, reduced border checks on food exports, and a new UK-EU defence and security pact. British holidaymakers will also benefit from increased access to e-gates and streamlined pet passport systems. Starmer said that this signals Britain is 'back on the world stage', with 'unprecedented access' to EU markets for a non-member state. However, the deal has been sharply criticised by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who labelled it a 'total capitulation', claiming it compromises UK sovereignty. While welcomed by many as pragmatic progress, the deal’s success will ultimately hinge on how it balances trade benefits with national self-determination. See
UK inflation surged to 3.5% in April, surprising economists and intensifying concerns over the Bank of England’s strategy on interest rates. The rise follows months of falling inflation and comes amid steep household bill increases, particularly in energy and broadband costs. Huw Pill, the Bank’s chief economist, had warned just a day earlier that rate cuts were being implemented too quickly, describing the return to stability as 'stuttering'. Pill voted against this month’s rate cut, calling for a pause and slower reductions, while the Bank’s monetary policy committee remained split. Some members wanted a deeper cut, while others, including Pill, argued for restraint due to stubborn underlying inflation and continued wage growth. Traders now expect fewer rate cuts in 2025 than previously hoped, disappointing mortgage holders and borrowers. With over 2,000 UK companies going bust in April - the highest since last summer - concerns are growing over financial pressures on households and businesses. The debate now centres on whether the Bank can tame inflation without stalling economic recovery or deepening insolvency risks.
Keir Starmer has announced a policy reversal on winter fuel payment cuts, following widespread criticism and internal party dissent. Over 10 million pensioners lost the payment (worth £200 to £300 a year) in 2024 after Labour started to means-test it. The Government originally limited eligibility to those receiving pension credit or income-related benefits, saving an estimated £1.4 billion. However, backlash from charities, unions, and local Labour members, along with poor local election results, prompted a reassessment. In a surprise announcement during Prime Minister’s Questions, Starmer confirmed changes would be introduced in the autumn budget to allow more pensioners to qualify. Details remain unclear, including the revised eligibility threshold or whether changes will apply this winter. Former PM Gordon Brown supported the move, saying 'no pensioner should be forced into poverty.' Critics welcomed the U-turn but called for urgent clarity. With cost-of-living pressures and energy bills rising, many fear delays could leave elderly citizens vulnerable. Age UK urged ministers to ensure the revised policy protects those on low and modest incomes.