Some sections of the Anglican Communion are convinced that only their narrow vision of what is permissible in faithfulness to the Christian message is adequate, says Simon Barrow. But they are confounded by the biblical texts they claim loyalty to.

Religion that binds others with condemnation and superstition is far from the heart of the Gospel, says Simon Barrow. The church needs to face its arguments and seek to be a place of healing if it is to rediscover its global role.

The Church of Scotland is planning substantial financial investment in new forms of church life. At its upcoming General Assembly, the Kirk's Ministries Council will outline plans to devote £1.5 million over five years to 'emerging ministries'.

Self-giving and voluntary generosity with possessions for the well being of others are Christian duties which point towards the desirability of church people taking a lead in post-death organ donation, the Church of England has suggested in parliamentary evidence.

In a move which could signal a longer-term shift in its ministry, the role of deacons as missionaries to their local communities should be taken more seriously, argues a report from the Church of England’s Faith and Order Advisory Group published last week.