Bishop Robinson chose to eschew specifically Christian language for the occasion, saying that the texts and beliefs he holds sacred are not so held by all Americans. But his prayer could hardly be accused of pulling punches or resting on polite diplomacy.

With Barack Obama and John McCain joining battle for the November US presidential elections, a leading evangelical Christian figure organised a candidates forum refreshingly free of rancour, say observers.

Kay Warren, Executive Director of the HIV initiative at Saddleback Church, California, USA, is adding her support to a Tearfund programme raising the awareness of HIV-AIDS with UK churches. She says the church has a key role to play.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, evangelical leaders Rick and Kay Warren and the Rev Gideon Byamugisha, the first African Anglican priest to openly say he is HIV-positive, are contributors to an Advent Calendar focussing on HIV-AIDS awareness.