Kevin Rudd's own values are shaped by faith, says Doug Hynd, but there are conflicting responses from within the churches to the way in which Christians should and should not engage a plural political process.

Australians have voted for change, says David Wood. The new premier is a Christian, but he points to a tradition which is outward looking and generous, not insular.

Kevin Rudd, a man who has been described by the media as "a bookish, intellectual Christian" and "a self-confessed nerd" has triumphed in the Australian general election against long term right-wing incumbent John Howard.

Though the main media attention went to his apparent decision not to call an immediate general election, Prime Minister Gordon Brown today vowed to maintain "pressure for change" in Burma, ahead of demonstrations against suppressed protests in the country.

Gordon Brown, artfully manoeuvred into Downing Street, will have little room to operate in for the social justice agenda. But what space there is will be created by the power of imagination, says Simon Barrow. Look at the example of Northern Ireland.