The BBC is launching a new major TV programme called The Big Questions this weekend. Its aim is to move the discussion of diverse beliefs and ethics out of a narrow 'religion' bracket, and to respond creatively to the debates taking place in modern Britain.

Jesus forgave those who spoke against him, says Johan Maurer. But the churches find it difficult to follow in his footsteps, and instead seek restitution when they are offended. We need a more Christian way of responding.

The UK-based international development agency Christian Aid intends to double the number of volunteer teachers it recruits over the next two years to help share stories about the work of its 700 partner organisations in 50 developing countries.

India gained independence through nonviolence, but partition involved much brutality, says Savi Hensman. Independence means embracing peace and justice in spite of intolerant ideologies, both religious and secular.

In a move that may raise questions for those who believe, on secular and religious grounds, in a clear distinction between religion and the state, Christian ministers in Northern Ireland are accompanying police patrols in tough areas.

Christian and secular human rights campaigners have joined forces to put pressure on the London-based Commonwealth Games Federation over Nigeria's bid for the 2014 games, citing its widely condemned mistreatment of gay people.

Many hundreds of thousands of Turks have joined protest for the maintenance of a democratic, religiously neutral government - and opposition either to a military coup or a drift towards Islamism.