A new database by Malaysian climate watchdog RimbaWatch has shown that despite global efforts to combat climate change, Southeast Asian countries are still planning to develop numerous fossil fuel projects, which could significantly increase carbon emissions. These planned projects could lead to a surge in emissions, posing a major challenge to the region's commitment to reduce greenhouse gases. This is the first time that an assessment of the carbon cost has been made in the region: RimbaWatch has used the data available from the fossil fuel companies themselves, such as the Malaysian giant Petronas. The report also emphasises the urgent need for transparency and accountability in assessing the environmental impact of these projects. It calls for greater scrutiny and regulation to ensure that the countries align their development plans with global climate goals and prioritise sustainable energy alternatives.

6 February was the anniversary of two earthquakes that brought mass destruction to south Türkiye and northwest Syria, with over 50,000 lives lost. There were 1.7 million people in Hatay province, home to Türkiye’s largest Christian community; now there are only 250,000, as residents have moved to stay with relatives or find shelter elsewhere. A SAT-7 team who revisited the area found many who stayed living in ‘cities’ of container units. Rebuilding is under way, but the pace is slow and the task colossal. Although destruction was less widespread in Syria, many factors are preventing recovery. After twelve years of conflict, over four million people in the area were in need of humanitarian aid even before the quakes struck. Government corruption, international sanctions, and a collapse in the value of the Syrian currency have compounded the problem. The Bishop of Aleppo, Magar Ashkarian, said that although the earthquake had increased Christian migration abroad, denominations have come closer: ‘We live together in a very close relationship and try to help entirely without discrimination’.

Bishop Christopher Saunders has been charged with rape and a string of sex offences - some against children. The 74-year-old was arrested on 21 February, after parallel investigations ordered by police and the Pope. Mr Saunders, who denies the allegations, was refused bail. He is one of the most senior Catholics to face charges of this nature. The offences he is alleged to have committed include two counts of rape, 14 of unlawful and indecent assault, and three of child abuse. For years, he has faced allegations of sexual abuse made by several Aboriginal men from communities in his parish. When the accusations were first aired in 2020, the initial police investigation was closed without charge. However after a historic inquiry was ordered by the Pope - and its 200-page report subsequently leaked to the media last year - police began a new investigation.

In the Kingswood and Wellingborough by-elections, the Labour Party achieved significant victories, causing a setback for Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives. Labour’s Gen Kitchen and Damien Egan won in Wellingborough and Kingswood respectively, overturning substantial Conservative majorities. These results mark the ninth and tenth by-election defeats for the government in the current parliament and represent one of the largest swings from Conservatives to Labour. The defeats add pressure on Sunak amidst a recession and strong by-election performances by Reform UK. Labour leader Keir Starmer celebrated these wins as signs of change and trust in Labour. The Conservatives have now suffered the most by-election defeats for a government since the 1960s, which indicates a shift in public sentiment against them.

Joshua Broome, a former Adult film star, went from the brink of suicide to finding salvation in Christianity. In 2013, at the peak of his film career, Broome, who had appeared in over 1,000 films and won major awards, was internally struggling with anxiety and depression. His turmoil stemmed from his fatherless upbringing and the emptiness he felt despite his success. On a decisive day, he entered a bank to cash what he thought would be his final pay cheque. Writing a provocative memo on the cheque, he expected condemnation from the teller. Instead, her concern for his well-being, recognising him by his real name, deeply impacted him. This encounter made him leave the Adult entertainment industry, reconnect with his mother, and start a new life. Now a devoted Christian, married with three children, Broome travels globally sharing his story.He has inspired many, showing that redemption and hope are possible despite a troubled past. He advocates immersing oneself in Scripture and Christian fellowship for true healing and encourages people to seek God's love and forgiveness.

A recent Gallup poll reveals a notable decline in overall life satisfaction among Americans, with only 47% expressing high fulfilment, marking a near-record low. This dip, observed for only the third time in two decades, is attributed to concerns over national affairs and economic challenges. However, certain groups demonstrate higher satisfaction levels, notably regular churchgoers. About 56% of Americans attending weekly religious services report high personal life satisfaction, compared to 41% of those who seldom or never attend. The findings indicate a persistent correlation between church attendance, faith engagement, and enhanced life satisfaction. For instance, 92% of weekly church attendees are satisfied with their lives, with 67% being very satisfied. Additionally, churchgoers report relatively stable 'excellent' mental health over recent years. These encouraging yet challenging results highlight the significant role of church involvement and Christian faith in fostering happiness and well-being.

In 2023, the UK officially entered a recession, as confirmed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The economy shrank by 0.3% in the last quarter of 2023, marking the second consecutive quarter of decline, a typical indicator of recession. However, there are positive signs, with a robust job market and wage growth surpassing inflation, suggesting a potential short duration for the downturn. The UK's GDP grew by a slight 0.1% compared to the previous year, indicating weak but present growth. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt remains optimistic, believing the economy is improving, despite current low growth rates. In contrast, Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves criticised Rishi Sunak, claiming his economic growth promises are failing. The global context shows similar trends, with the EU narrowly avoiding a recession and Japan entering one. The latest ONS update confirmed a marginal 0.1% GDP growth for the UK in 2023, the weakest since the 2009 financial crisis, excluding 2020's pandemic impact. The Government's focus is on reducing inflation and supporting economic recovery, amidst political criticism and global economic challenges.

Sir Keir Starmer has been urged to suspend any Labour member who was present at a meeting of activists where antisemitic comments were allegedly made. Mike Katz, the national chair of the Jewish Labour Movement (JLM), criticised those who were present at the meeting but failed to 'call out' comments about Israel. At the meeting, which is understood to have taken place in Hyndburn last year, Labour's original candidate for the Rochdale by-election claimed Israel deliberately allowed the Hamas atrocity of 7 October to take place in order to give it the 'green light' to invade Gaza. The Labour Party initially stood by Mr Ali, but later withdrew support for his candidacy after 'further comments' came to light. Another one of the party's election candidates, the former Labour MP Graham Jones, had also been present at the meeting, and made comments resulting in his suspension. Mr Katz said there was a real problem that nobody raised concerns. He said: 'Well, they're identifiable. They all ought to be suspended pending investigation’. A third Labour MP was spoken to about his attendance at the Hyndburn meeting. See