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        <title>Christian Daily International | Oceania</title>
        <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/oceania</link>
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            <title>Christian Daily International | Oceania</title>
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        <copyright>Christian Daily International © 2026</copyright>
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        <lastBuildDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:06:29 -0400</lastBuildDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Mission Australia launches Youth Survey 2026, marking 25 years]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/mission-australia-launches-youth-survey-2026-marking-25-years</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/mission-australia-launches-youth-survey-2026-marking-25-years</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[teens]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Photo by Tim Mossholder / Unsplash ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Mission Australia’s Youth Survey is marking 25 years of gathering the views of young people by inviting those ages 14 to 19 to “come to the party” and participate in the 2026 survey.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Mission Australia’s Youth Survey is marking 25 years of gathering the views of young people by inviting those ages 14 to 19 to “come to the party” and participate in the 2026 survey.
The survey opens today (March 19) and allows young people to share their hopes, views and concerns, according to the ministry.
Last year, more than 17,000 young people completed the survey, identifying cost of living (64%), mental health (29%), climate change and the environment (27%) and housing and homelessness (25%) as the top issues facing Australia.
This year’s survey will ask some new questions, including, “What’s one thing that could be changed in your neighborhood to make your life better?”, as well as young people’s opinions on barriers to participating in community events and the widely discussed social media ban.
Mission Australia deputy chief executive officer Ben Carblis said the Youth Survey provided crucial insights into what young people were thinking and feeling.
“For a quarter of a century, Youth Survey has given young Australians an outlet in which to not only communicate their concerns, but suggest changes they want to see,” he said.
“During that time, more than 500,000 surveys have been completed, and while fashion trends might have come full circle, young people’s responses have not.”
In the early years of the Youth Survey, responses to questions about key concerns showed a shift from issues such as alcohol and other drugs, family conflict and body image to coping with stress, school or study problems and mental health.
When the national issues question was added to the Youth Survey in 2010, the top issues included alcohol and other drugs, population or societal issues and equity and discrimination, while recent concerns focus on the environment, cost of living and mental health.
“In more recent years, we’ve seen young people primarily shift from concerns about the environment to focusing more on housing and cost of living,” Carblis said.
“Last year, cost of living was the top concern for the second year in a row and at the highest level since the question was first asked in 2010.”
Results of the survey will be published in November 2026 and shared with government, non-government organizations, schools and the public.
Carblis urged schools, community groups, local councils and families to “spread the word” and encourage young people to take part in the survey.
“For 25 years, Youth Survey data has been used by a range of decision-makers and stakeholders to inform policies and the development of programs and services that impact young people,” he said.
“We want as many young people as possible to participate in the survey, so we can make sure we are hearing from young people from a range of backgrounds and experiences across the country.”
Youth Survey 2026 is open from March 19 to Aug. 14 and takes about 20 minutes to complete.
The survey can be completed online through participating schools or groups, or individually via Mission Australia’s website.]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Database launched on anti-Christian violations of religious freedom in Australia]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/database-launched-on-anti-christian-violations-of-religious-freedom-in-australia</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/database-launched-on-anti-christian-violations-of-religious-freedom-in-australia</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[Warwick Marsh of the Canberra Declaration at launch of Australian Christian Freedom Index.]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ CDI screenshot of webinar ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Warwick Marsh of the Canberra Declaration at launch of Australian Christian Freedom Index. ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:04:00 -0400</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[An advocacy group defending Judeo-Christian values in Australia has launched a database to track infringements of Christians’ religious freedom.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
An advocacy group defending Judeo-Christian values in Australia has launched a database to track infringements of Christians’ religious freedom.
The Canberra Declaration, a group calling on Australian leaders to rebuild the country’s Judeo-Christian foundations, on March 11 launched the Australian Christian Freedom Index (ACFI) with a 40-page report on anti-Christian currents in 2025.
The launch of the index and the report came in a  webinar in which key Christian leaders and legal experts mapped religious discrimination across Australia.
Panelists argued that anti-discrimination laws in Australia silence the church. They contended that a formal index must prove to the government that structural forces erode religious rights. To support this, the group is organizing a survey to record infringements of those liberties.
“The ACFI brings together multiple lines of evidence to paint the most comprehensive picture of Christian freedom in Australia ever produced,” said Kurt Mahlburg, one of the leaders of the Canberra Declaration.
Another leader, Warrick Marsh, said Australia needs freedom to share the gospel, “and that is probably the most critical freedom.”
“We’ve been losing these freedoms for many, many years – for decades – and we need to make a stand,” Marsh said.
He described the Index as a “line in the sand” to show politicians, the media and those antagonistic toward Christianity the benefits of religious freedom. He argued that Australia must maintain its foundations as a nation that holds Christian freedom as a core value.
The leaders intend to build a database of hard evidence and survey results to illustrate how the state restricts Christian freedoms. They plan to present the document to politicians and the media as evidence that Australian Christians face rising discrimination.
A central concern involves the “rule of silence,” in which Christians endure pressure to keep their faith private, especially regarding issues such as gender, parenting and education, said George Christensen, a former Member of Parliament representing CitizenGO.
Mahlburg noted that the group is auditing state laws following incidents of the state forcing Christian schools to hire staff members who do not share the institutions’ religious beliefs. He also cited cases of laws compelling medical workers to participate in abortion and euthanasia, alongside restrictions on street preaching near abortion clinics.
“We want to see which states are the freest and which are the least free,” Mahlburg said. “Hopefully, that puts the wind up legislators in the different parliaments.”
The panel highlighted lack of robust legal protection for religious belief in Australia. While the United States relies on the First Amendment, Mahlburg observed that Australia offers only small “exemptions” rather than strong rights.
“What strikes me is that in Australia, we really don’t have religious freedom explicitly protected in law – not robustly,” Mahlburg said.
He added that while Section 116 of the Australian Constitution offers a “nod” to religious freedom, the government has failed to build upon it.
“In the last couple of decades, federal and state governments have brought in anti-discrimination and vilification legislation,” Mahlburg said. “Christian freedom in Australia has become a series of ‘carve-outs’ or exemptions in other laws...Structurally, the situation in Australia is not good.”
Christensen lamented that Christians are learning a “new rule” in Australia: “Stay quiet.”
“The idea is that your faith is not to be lived openly or expressed in ‘controversial’ areas like gender, parenting or education,” Christensen said. “It’s not paranoia; it’s a pattern of expanding rules and complaint-based systems being used to pressure us into silence. People are self-censoring to protect their jobs.”
Christensen rebutted the notion that the ability to “still go to church and sing hymns” constitutes true religious freedom, calling that a “hollowed-out version of faith.” He reported that the U.S. State Department has already expressed interest in the index.
Other participants included Michelle Pearse, CEO of the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL); Peter Downie, National Director of FamilyVoice Australia; and Augusto Zimmerman, a law professor establishing Christian law schools. Zimmerman, who is establishing a Christian law school in Sydney, argued that the state’s “protection” via anti-discrimination laws remains unwarranted.
“I want the state to leave me alone,” Zimmerman said. “The greatest sin of Australia is the idolatry of the government. We need to stop asking for more laws and start voting for politicians who will repeal them. I don’t feel we are free in this country anymore. What God gives, no man can take away.”
The Canberra Declaration describes itself as an active, caring, “growing community of people who have a vision for an Australia where children are safe, women are secure, families are happy, everyone receives a fair go, incentive is rewarded, integrity is paramount, life is precious, freedom is for all, including those of faith. Where everyone is able to enjoy the prosperity that comes from the revitalisation of the Judeo-Christian Values that form the foundation of our nation.”
The Canberra Declaration calls on national leaders to protect life, defend marriage, support family, rebuild Judeo-Christian foundations, secure religious freedom and safeguard children.]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Christian legal group raises safety concerns over ‘all-gender’ toilet rules in Australia]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/christian-legal-group-raises-safety-concerns-over-all-gender-toilet-rules-in-australia</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/christian-legal-group-raises-safety-concerns-over-all-gender-toilet-rules-in-australia</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[public restroom]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Photo by Sung Jin Cho / Unsplash ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:10:00 -0400</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[New building rules in Australia allowing “all-gender” toilets have raised safety concerns for girls and women, according to a Christian legal rights group. State governments have until May 1 to either adopt or reject new rules that could reduce the number of single-sex toilets in public buildings, the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) reported.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
New building rules in Australia allowing “all-gender” toilets have raised safety concerns for girls and women, according to a Christian legal rights group.
State governments have until May 1 to either adopt or reject new rules that could reduce the number of single-sex toilets in public buildings, the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) reported on March 11.
The National Construction Code 2025 allows developers to replace up to half of the mandatory male and female toilets in a building with so-called "all-gender" facilities. If adopted, the rules would affect a wide range of public spaces, including schools, workplaces, shopping centers, and sports venues.
Michelle Pearse, the CEO of the ACL, said reducing the number of single-sex toilets raises genuine safety concerns.
“Women and girls deserve safe, private spaces in public buildings,” said Pearse. “Removing or reducing women’s toilets puts their safety and dignity at risk.”
Pearse said survivors of sexual violence, young girls, mothers, and older women rely on single-sex toilets for safety and privacy, and that the changes could leave them with no real choice but to use all-gender facilities, even if they feel unsafe.
The ACL is currently campaigning to convince the New South Wales (NSW) Government to follow Tasmania’s lead and "opt out" of the new rules before the May deadline. While the NSW Government previously rejected a state parliamentary inquiry that recommended more all-gender toilets, policymakers have not yet committed to rejecting the National Construction Code changes.
“The government cannot say it opposes forced all-gender toilets in one policy and then allow it to happen through the building code,” Pearse said. “If the NSW Government truly cares about the safety of women and children in NSW, it should reject these changes.”
Pearse noted that when the NSW Government previously rejected similar recommendations, it argued that public toilets were primarily the responsibility of local councils and that there was no need for new laws governing their design. However, the ACL argues that failing to opt out of the national code creates a loophole for developers.
The updated code, published Feb. 1, allows developers to replace up to half of male and female toilets with shared facilities. Although optional, the ACL warns the change could reduce the number of dedicated spaces for women and men.
“We’ve raised concerns that reducing the number of single-sex facilities risks compromising privacy and safety for women and girls – and we’ve already been proven right,” said Pearse. “In the ACT [Australian Capital Territory], where these facilities already exist, there are reports of girls dropping out of sport because they don’t want to change clothes in the same changing rooms as men.”]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Salvation Army warns of 'significant gaps' in protecting exploited children]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/salvation-army-warns-of-significant-gaps-in-protecting-exploited-children</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/salvation-army-warns-of-significant-gaps-in-protecting-exploited-children</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[Markus Stefan Hofer]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Markus Stefan Hofer / Facebook ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Markus Stefan Hofer during the 61st session of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council. ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:09:00 -0400</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Many children remain at risk of sexual exploitation, human trafficking and poverty—particularly migrant children—the Salvation Army warned during the 61st session of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council on March 9.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Many children remain at risk of sexual exploitation, human trafficking and poverty—particularly migrant children—the Salvation Army warned during the 61st session of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council on March 9.
Markus Stefan Hofer, UN communications and advocacy officer for the World Evangelical Alliance, delivered an oral statement in his dual role as representative speaker for the Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission.
He spoke during an interactive dialogue with attorney Mama Fatima Singhateh at the council. Singhateh serves as UN Special Rapporteur on the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children.
The statement follows a UN report by Singhateh published in January 2026 titled Protecting children from sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse: progress, new frontiers and the path forward.
“Over the past six years, the Special Rapporteur has observed persistent and evolving forms of the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children,” Singhateh says in the report.
“Online child exploitation and abuse have surged, driven by misuse of technology and emerging tools.
“The COVID-19 pandemic and other crises have amplified children’s vulnerabilities, increasing their exposure to sexual exploitation and abuse.
“Challenges in child protection continue to increase in industries such as travel and tourism, as well as entertainment. Some children in vulnerable situations, including boys, gender-diverse children and street-connected children, remain largely invisible in protection efforts, reinforcing cycles of exclusion and rights violations.”
Hofer said the Salvation Army welcomed the report and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting every child from sale, sexual exploitation and abuse.
However, many children lack safe reporting mechanisms, Hofer warned, adding that “significant gaps remain.”
“Migrant and displaced children face heightened risks,” he said. “Frontline workers need stronger trauma-informed training and resources.”
Hofer said the Salvation Army’s commission works in more than 130 countries, supporting children and families affected by poverty, displacement, trafficking and online exploitation.
In 2025, more than 25,000 survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking received support, including many children subjected to sexual exploitation.
“Their resilience guides our advocacy,” Hofer added.
Hofer recalled the case of an unnamed girl trafficked across borders under false promises of education and how the Salvation Army assisted her.
“After escaping, she received emergency care, psychosocial support, and safe reunification through cross-border cooperation,” he said.
“She is now back in school and receiving follow-up care—demonstrating the importance of coordinated international protection.”
Hofer outlined three priorities to address the issue: invest in community-based prevention; strengthen cross-border collaboration so protection—not bureaucracy—guides recovery; and ensure child- and survivor-led approaches shape policy and accountability.
“We remain committed to partnering with States to ensure every child is safe, valued and free to flourish,” he added.]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Papua New Guinea prime minister visits YWAM medical ship ahead of 2026 outreach]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/papua-new-guinea-prime-minister-visits-ywam-medical-ship-ahead-of-2026-outreach</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/papua-new-guinea-prime-minister-visits-ywam-medical-ship-ahead-of-2026-outreach</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[James Marape MP, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Photo by YWAM Ships ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ James Marape MP, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, visiting the MV YWAM PNG ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:20:00 -0400</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape visited the MV YWAM PNG ship ahead of its first voyage of 2026 to Western Province, expressing support for its health and education initiatives serving local communities.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape visited the MV YWAM PNG ship ahead of its first voyage of 2026 to Western Province, expressing support for its health and education initiatives serving local communities.
Marape visited at the end of January accompanied by a delegation of government ministers: Miki Kaeok, Minister for Transport; Billy Joseph, Minister for Defence; and Kinoka Feo, Minister for Higher Education.
The ship underwent a refit in the Philippines at the end of 2025.
“The Prime Minister met with volunteers from Papua New Guinea and around the world, including a team from YWAM Norway,” according to YWAM Medical Ships News.
“Conversations during the visit focused not only on the upcoming outreach, but also on the future — particularly the potential for additional ships serving the people of PNG.
“Prime Minister Marape expressed strong enthusiasm for this vision, reaffirming his long-standing support for ship-based services that bring healthcare, training, and development directly to coastal and riverine communities.”
Built in 1999 as a small catamaran cruise liner, the 60-meter vessel—capable of accommodating 130 volunteers—was purchased by YWAM Medical Ships (Australia & PNG) in 2014 and refitted as a specialized medical and training “floating hospital.”
It is officially registered as a health facility in Papua New Guinea and tasked with reaching remote coastal and river communities in notoriously difficult terrain, with more than 5,000 kilometers of coastline and hundreds of inhabited islands.
The prime minister’s wife, Rachael Marape, is the Co-Patron of YWAM Medical Ships PNG and advocates for maternal and child health.
At the time of the visit, about 100 volunteers from 14 nations were on board the MV YWAM PNG. They were preparing to deliver critical health services in partnership with local healthcare workers. Their work includes promoting health and education while strengthening local services and supporting a long-term vision for community wellbeing.
“The Prime Minister’s visit is a powerful affirmation of the partnership between the Government of Papua New Guinea and YWAM Medical Ships – Australia & PNG, united by a shared commitment to improving access to healthcare and investing in the future of PNG’s people, especially in some of the nation’s most hard-to-reach regions,” YWAM Medical Ships News added.
Ken Mulligan, managing director of YWAM Medical Ships, has previously described the story of the MV YWAM PNG as one of “genuine collaboration.”
“Health professionals, leaders, and communities in PNG are driving real change, working alongside Australian and international teams in a spirit of shared learning and respect,” Mulligan said.
“Together, we’re building healthier futures by combining local knowledge, skills, and commitment with broad support, training, and resources.”
YWAM Medical Ships – Australia & PNG has partnered with the National Department of Health and provincial health authorities since 2010. This partnership has resulted in more than 2.3 million healthcare and training services delivered, while also providing hands-on training opportunities for Papua New Guinean health workers.]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA['Standing in strength': Baptist World Aid Australia renews call to end poverty]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/standing-in-strength-baptist-world-aid-australia-renews-call-to-end-poverty</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/standing-in-strength-baptist-world-aid-australia-renews-call-to-end-poverty</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[Michelle Farrall]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Photo by BWAAA ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Melissa Lipsett, CEO of Baptist Aid in Australia, speaking at their annual vision day. ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:25:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Baptist World Aid Australia gathered staff and volunteers in Sydney this month with a renewed call to confront global poverty, launching the year ahead under the theme “Standing in Strength” and reaffirming its commitment to a world where all people can flourish.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Baptist World Aid Australia gathered staff and volunteers in Sydney this month with a renewed call to confront global poverty, launching the year ahead under the theme “Standing in Strength” and reaffirming its commitment to a world where all people can flourish.
The annual Vision Day brought together team members, board representatives and international partners to reflect on the organization’s mission, strengthen strategic priorities and announce new initiatives, including an expanded push into ethical consumer advocacy beyond Australia. Leaders said the day underscored the charity’s conviction that partnership, faith and practical action remain central to addressing entrenched injustice and vulnerability in communities across Africa and Asia.
The event began with worship and prayer at Epping Baptist Church in Sydney’s northwest, which hosted the day on Feb. 13 under the leadership of pastors Jamie and Kirsten Long.
“The church is God’s answer to a world in need,” said Tara Lamerton, product manager for BWAA.
The day was attended by staff, volunteers from around Australia, and representatives from the charity’s Bangladesh office. Board members also attended and participated by speaking, leading prayer, and offering encouragement.
“Partnership is the Christian way to do humanitarian aid,” said Nathan Sarker, South Asia regional lead.
A highlight of the day was the announcement of a new partnership between Baptist World Aid Australia and Baptist Missionary Society World Mission to launch an Ethical Fashion Report for U.K. consumers, assessing fashion brands’ ethical and sustainable practices.
Melissa Lipsett, chief executive officer of BWAA, told Christian Daily International that Vision Day reflected a clear calling to pursue a vision of a world without poverty and where all people experience the fullness of life God intends.
“This work matters, perhaps more today than ever before. So together, let’s continue to dream of, pray for and work toward a world without poverty and where all people enjoy the fullness of life God intends.”
At the event, Sienna Corkill, youth and school engagement manager, gave an update on her work encouraging young Australian Christians to embrace their power as consumers.
Corkill’s work involves exploring ethical fashion with school and youth groups to help them understand their roles as global citizens.
“How generous we are to our global neighbours says something about the soul of our nation,” Corkill said.
After a time of worship, attendees participated in panel discussions and heard presentations from staff members who shared stories from a recent trip to Kenya and Uganda. BWAA’s partner organizations work in vulnerable communities in low-socioeconomic regions, often in areas others consider difficult to reach, according to a spokeswoman for the event.
The day was “peppered with prayer and praise to God, appreciation for each other, and the work God has kindly called us to,” she added.]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA['Rally for Samuel' held in Brisbane after images allegedly show aborted boy dying while sucking his thumb]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/rally-for-samuel-held-in-brisbane-after-images-allegedly-show-aborted-boy-dying-while-sucking-his-thumb</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/rally-for-samuel-held-in-brisbane-after-images-allegedly-show-aborted-boy-dying-while-sucking-his-thumb</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[Rally for Baby Samuel]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Photo by Dave Pellowe | Church And State | YouTube Screenshort ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Rally for Baby Samuel ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:47:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Thousands of pro-life protesters took to the streets of Brisbane, Australia, in a “Rally for Samuel” after images circulated online suggesting a perfectly formed baby boy survived an abortion and was then allowed to die as he sucked his thumb.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Thousands of pro-life protesters took to the streets of Brisbane, Australia, in a “Rally for Samuel” after images circulated online suggesting a perfectly formed baby boy survived an abortion and was then allowed to die as he sucked his thumb.
More than 2,000 pro-life campaigners gathered outside Queensland Parliament on George Street on Monday, Feb. 9.
Joanna Howe, a practicing Catholic, law professor at the University of Adelaide, and mother of five, was a key speaker at the event. She reportedly received images from an unnamed hospital worker showing the aborted baby sucking his thumb after surviving the procedure but allegedly being left to die. She reportedly circulated the images of “Samuel” online.
“This is baby Samuel. Born alive after an abortion at 16 weeks, he sucked his thumb in the Butterfly Room at a Queensland hospital,” wrote Howe on social media, in a post accompanying a supposed graphic image of the aborted child.
“He lived for over 30 minutes. He was perfectly healthy prior to his abortion.”
Babies who survive an abortion have no legislative right to equal treatment and care under Queensland law, said Howe.
“He was left to die. No one picked him up, wrapped him, or gave him any medical care to alleviate his pain and suffering.”
Howe said the photo had been passed to her by a hospital worker who was called to look upon the boy by others “who were watching him as he sucked his thumb after his abortion.”
“Already it is being censored online, and pro-abortion activists are seeking to identify the brave whistleblower who risked their career to give us this photo,” added Howe.
Townsville Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Kieran Keyes reportedly said an investigation is underway for a “serious breach of confidentiality” after the image was shared on social media.
Some media reports said that Queensland Health denied that “Samuel” had been born alive. Queensland’s government is understood to be making moves to remove the images from social media channels.
A spokesperson from the Queensland Office of the Health Ombudsman reportedly said breaches of privacy allegations “by health service providers, particularly those involving sensitive healthcare information, are treated with the utmost seriousness.”
Michelle Pearse, chief executive officer of the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL), also discussed the Brisbane protest in an email to supporters on Feb. 13.
Pearse said the protesters called upon the Queensland Government to overturn the “undemocratic ban” imposed by the state’s Premier on any discussion regarding abortion in Parliament.
“This is where freedom of speech and protection of life intersect,” said Pearse.
“Parliament, of all places, should be a place for MPs to freely table important matters of debate. But the topic of abortion remains censored—despite the significant proportion of the community that are concerned with this issue.”
The CEO described the parliament’s reaction as “unsurprising,” adding that “cancel culture is the demon of the West.”
“Abortion and biological reality are off limits,” she said, and implored ACL supporters: “But I hope that, like me, this only spurs you on to declare the truth even more faithfully and with greater courage.
“They’ll call you a bigot, but know that you’re not. You simply believe that babies in utero—male and female—were created in God’s image. Because of this, their lives and their sex are sacred.
“May we fight and run like the apostle Paul, who said as his death approached, ‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful’ (2 Timothy 4:7).”
Queensland allows pregnancy terminations up to 22 weeks “for any reason” under The Termination of Pregnancy Act 2018. Abortions after 22 weeks are permitted if two doctors agree that the procedure is appropriate based on the mother’s circumstances.
“Doctors must consider the medical circumstances of the pregnancy, the mother’s current and future physical, psychological, and social circumstances, and any relevant professional standards and guidelines,” states the Queensland Government on its website.
Last Christmas (2025), Townsville University Hospital—where “Samuel” was allegedly aborted at 16 weeks—celebrated “a time for miracles” with the birth of “sweet Stevie O’Reilly,” born at 22 weeks and two days.
“The most premature baby in Australia ever to survive, Stevie was born almost four-and-a-half months early, on a family holiday more than 4,000 km from home, her life saved by the neonatal and paediatric surgical teams at Townsville University Hospital (TUH),” said a hospital press release on Dec. 23, 2025.
“Her mother, Bree Basille, said she and her husband Jake, from Perth, still wake up most mornings in disbelief about the experience they lived through.
“Stevie was born at TUH on July 17, at 22 weeks and two days, after her mother went into premature labor with twins on a family holiday in Cairns.”]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[310 faith-based organizations recognized as ‘Best Christian Workplaces’]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/310-faith-based-organizations-recognized-as-best-christian-workplaces</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/310-faith-based-organizations-recognized-as-best-christian-workplaces</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[CDI Staff]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[310 faith-based organizations recognized as ‘Best Christian Workplaces’]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Pixabay ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ The accolades recognise 310 global faith-based organisations and Christian-owned businesses honored for their work.  ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Best Christian Workplaces in the U.S. State of Washington has announced “Certified Best Christian Workplaces” with 310 global faith-based organisations and Christian-owned businesses honored for their work. The ministry said the honors represented a variety of Christian organizations, including churches,parachurch ministries, mission organizations, Christian-owned businesses, Christian schools, and universities. Certified Best Christian Workplaces are spread across the United States, Canada, and]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Best Christian Workplaces in the U.S. has announced “Certified Best Christian Workplaces” with 310 global faith-based organisations and Christian-owned businesses honored for their work. 
The ministry said the honors represented a variety of Christian organizations, including churches, parachurch ministries, mission organizations, Christian-owned businesses, Christian schools, and universities. 
Certified Best Christian Workplaces are spread across the United States, Canada, and 15 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Oceania. 
On a 5-point scale, certified organizations score at 4.0 and above on Best Christian Workplaces’ Employee Engagement Survey, which is based on rigorous research reflecting more than 20 years of experience.
Jay Bransford, President and CEO of Best Christian Workplaces, reflected on the importance of healthy workplaces. 
“I commend each of the leaders on this year’s list of Certified Best Christian Workplaces,” said Bransford. 
“These leaders have invested in the health of their workplaces by listening to their staff and taking concrete actions to strengthen their culture and overall employee engagement. 
“Their faithful efforts over the long haul mean that their employees can have joy in their work and serve their stakeholders more fully to accomplish their mission.”
The organizations listed seek to honor God and reflect biblical values at work, according to Bransford. 
“We have seen many organizations move from unhealthy to healthy to flourishing, as they have utilized the data from our research-based assessment,” he added. “These organizations make an eternal difference while setting the standard as the best places to work.”
There has been a significant increase in the number of Certified Best Christian Workplaces over the last five years, from 208 in 2021 to 310 in 2025. 
This year, a higher proportion of Certified workplaces are in the “Flourishing” range with Employee Engagement scores of 4.25 and above.
In healthy workplaces, employees bring their full energy to their work, which is reflected in higher productivity. Organizations with engaged employees are more effectively able to accomplish their mission and vision, expanding their kingdom impact, according to the ministry.]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Australian hero teen says ‘It was God the whole time’ after rescuing family at sea]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/australian-hero-teen-says-it-was-god-the-whole-time-after-rescuing-family-at-sea</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/australian-hero-teen-says-it-was-god-the-whole-time-after-rescuing-family-at-sea</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[Australian teen says ‘It was God the whole time’ after rescuing family at sea]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Youtube Screenshot / 7News Australia ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Australian teen says ‘It was God the whole time’ after rescuing family at sea ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 20:20:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[An Australian teenage boy who swam for four hours across a rough sea only a day after shark sightings to save his family says that God helped him. ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
An Australian teenage boy who swam for four hours across a rough sea only a day after shark sightings to save his family says that God helped him. 
Austin Appelbee, 13, saved the lives of mom Joanne, 47, his brother Beau, 12,  and sister Grace, 8, after strong winds pulled their paddleboards and kayaks 14 kilometers out to sea on Friday, Jan. 30. It happened off the coast of Quindalup, in Geographe Bay, 250 kilometers south of Perth.
Joanne realised that all of them could die and asked Austin to swim for help. At first he used his kayak but had to abandon it as the waves pulled him back and then took his lifejacket off to be without hindrance on his four kilometer swim to shore where he ran a further two kilometers to reach a hotel and phone for help.
“I was… thinking about like all my friends at school and friends at my Christian youth,” Austin told 7NEWS Australia, explaining how adopting a positive mindset to “keep on swimming” helped his determination at the time. His girlfriend’s hair tie given to him also helped. 
“I just said, ‘All right, not today. Not today. Not today. I  have to keep on going.’”
The boy adopted different swimming styles to keep up his momentum — breaststroke, freestyle, and survival backstroke. 
“There was a lot of foreign people on the beach, so I couldn't really get much help. And so, I ran to the phone and I called Triple 0 [phone number for emergency services]. 
“‘Police,’ I said, ‘I need helicopters. I need planes. I need boats. My family's out at sea.’”
Austin also said that he didn’t “think it was actually me” in charge of the successful rescue bid.
“It was God the whole time. I kept on praying. I kept on praying. And I said to God, ‘I'll get baptized. I'll get baptized and all that. And I went to church on Sunday.’"
ABE Perth reported that Austin ironically had previously failed Vac Swim, a state program for children to learn survival skills in water. 
Western Australia Police Force received a report at 6pm saying the family had been swept out to sea. Police confirmed that Austin “who was a family member and had been with the group, alerted authorities after he decided to return to shore in fading light and rough conditions.” 
“He paddled a short distance before his kayak took on water and swam approximately four kilometres (about two nautical miles) before reaching land,” confirmed a police update. 
A multi-agency search and rescue response was initiated and coordinated by the Water Police Coordination Centre in North Fremantle, under the oversight of the South West District Office. 
The rest of the family were located by a rescue helicopter at 8.30pm still clinging to a paddleboard. 
A volunteer marine rescue vessel was directed to their location and all three were successfully rescued and returned to shore.
Inspector James Bradley, South West District Office, paid tribute to Austin’s brave actions. 
“WA Police thank all emergency first responders and volunteers for their swift response, teamwork, and professionalism, which led to a successful outcome,” said Bradley. 
“This incident is a reminder that ocean conditions can change rapidly. Thankfully, all three people were wearing lifejackets, which contributed to their survival.
“The actions of the 13-year-old boy cannot be praised highly enough – his determination and courage ultimately saved the lives of his mother and siblings.”]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[‘God is on the move’: Baptist leader sees ‘quiet revival’ among New Zealand youth]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/god-is-on-the-move-baptist-leader-sees-quiet-revival-among-new-zealand-youth</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/god-is-on-the-move-baptist-leader-sees-quiet-revival-among-new-zealand-youth</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[‘God is on the move’: Baptist leader sees ‘quiet revival’ among New Zealand youth]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Naassom Azevedo from Pixabay ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Figures from Baptists show a marked increase in church attendance in New Zealand by younger people ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[The so-called “Quiet Revival” report by the Bible Society noting an upsurge in Christianity among young people in the U.K. is also seen to an extent among young New Zealanders, according to a report by Baptists.  In the 2025 Annual Report for the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, Ethan Miller, Youth Catalyst for the denomination, made the comments in reference to the Bible Society report published in April 2025 and titled “The Quiet Revival: Gen Z leads rise in church attendance emerging across p]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
The so-called “Quiet Revival” report by the Bible Society noting an upsurge in Christianity among young people in the U.K. is also seen to an extent among young New Zealanders, according to a report by Baptists. 
In the 2025 Annual Report for the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, Ethan Miller, Youth Catalyst for the denomination, made the comments in reference to the Bible Society report published in April 2025 and titled “The Quiet Revival: Gen Z leads rise in church attendance emerging across parts of the Western world.” 
Miller shared the findings in a chapter titled, “Fanning the Flame: Is the Quiet Revival Here?” referring to the Bible Society report that found a measurable rise in Christian faith in the U.K., with Gen Z (born 1997–2012, now aged 13–28) “leading the way.”
He then asked whether similar signs of renewal could also be seen in Aotearoa New Zealand.
He listed a series of figures from the Baptists showing a marked increase in church attendance in New Zealand by younger people, arguably showing that a “quiet revival” is also being noticed in the country. 
These figures show between 2022 and 2024, youth in Baptist churches increased by 24%. Easter Camps grew 42% between 2023 and 2025. KB Youth Leaders Training, predominantly young adults, also grew by at least 100 people (30%) to 445 youth leaders between 2024–2025, said Miller.
Meanwhile, of the 710 baptisms reported in Baptist churches, 58% (411) were under 25, with the majority under 18 (43%), he said. There are 8+ new youth ministries (over 100+ youth ministries in total) over the last two years. 
“We expect many more to begin over the coming years,” said Miller, and he commented on the real life stories behind the figures. “We’re hearing remarkable stories of young people walking into church with no faith background, curious about Jesus, reading Scripture—and even bringing their Bibles to school; sharing faith, starting Alpha courses, and inviting friends to church.”
Showing passion for mission and justice for the poor, sick, and marginalized had also been noted among younger people. This social action interest complemented a demonstrable hunger for prayer and worship. 
“My favourite story is about a 15-year-old girl from an unchurched background who came to faith at Easter Camp two years ago,” recalled Miller. “After moving towns, her passion for Jesus led her to start a youth group. Today, 30 of the 40 highschoolers in her area school gather to worship, read scripture and grow together.”
“God is on the move, and Gen Z— what [Christian researcher] Barna calls [the open generation] —seems to be leading the way,” he added. 
However, Miller cautioned that much work remained in evangelistic witness among youths in New Zealand with challenges in resources. 
“Although Jesus is moving and there has been significant progress, there is still much work to be done,” he said. 
“The greatest challenge impacting youth ministry is the reduction of resources, between 50-60% lower than it was 10 years ago, at a local, regional and until recently national level.”
Miller believed that a strong and ongoing emphasis upon discipleship and leadership training is needed to reach youngsters.  
“The future of the Baptist churches lies in the leaders we raise. We must recapture our vision and passion for the next generation and younger leaders; they are the most strategic investment we can make! We would love to see this increase in the coming years, particularly with what Jesus is doing in young people! As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.’”]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Mission leader Chris Melville becomes new CEO for Bible Society Australia]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/mission-leader-chris-melville-becomes-new-ceo-for-bible-society-australia</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/mission-leader-chris-melville-becomes-new-ceo-for-bible-society-australia</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
                                                                                                                            <media:content  url="https://www.christiandaily.com/media/original/img/0/40/4024.png">
                            <media:title><![CDATA[Mission leader Chris Melville becomes new CEO for Bible Society Australia]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Bible Society Australia ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Chris Melville, the new CEO of Bible Society Australia, sees challenges in Bible literacy as contextual and educational, as much as within language barriers  ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 07:42:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Bible Society Australia (BSA) has announced veteran mission leader Chris Melville as its new chief executive officer.  Melville had served as Interim CEO for the past six months and previously held the role of chief of mission, where he oversaw BSA’s domestic and international mission work, according to a Bible Society announcement on Jan. 30.  Melville commented on his appointment, saying he felt humbled to be chosen and “energised for the next season of ministry.” ]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Bible Society Australia (BSA) has announced veteran mission leader Chris Melville as its new chief executive officer. 
Melville had served as Interim CEO for the past six months and previously held the role of chief of mission, where he oversaw BSA’s domestic and international mission work, according to a Bible Society announcement on Jan. 30. 
Melville commented on his appointment, saying he felt humbled to be chosen and “energised for the next season of ministry.” 
“I’m genuinely humbled by this responsibility,” said Melville. “One of the biggest opportunities we have is to serve the church and its communities so that more people can engage with God’s Word. Helping people open the Bible — in a language and format that speaks to their hearts — is at the core of everything we do.”
The new CEO saw the challenges in Bible literacy as contextual and educational, as much as within language barriers. 
“It’s not just language barriers — although with one in five people still waiting for the Bible in their heart language, and 129 million people with no Scripture at all, that need is enormous. It’s also the educational and circumstantial barriers that keep people from accessing the Bible. We see both the need and the opportunity, and that’s what motivates our mission.”
Melville also acknowledged that alongside opportunities, he foresaw “significant challenges” that will shape BSA’s future direction. 
“The reality is that the scale of global Bible need is huge, and resourcing that need is one of our biggest challenges. We want to steward every gift wisely so we can continue to find ways to help all people encounter the Bible.”
He also emphasized an often understated need for practical barriers to be removed for people to actually access the Bible. 
“One of the difficulties is simply awareness. Many Australians assume the Bible is everywhere, yet millions — globally and here at home — still face real barriers to accessing Scripture. Part of our task is illuminating that challenge, so people can understand why this work matters.”
Melville also highlighted the importance of partnership and innovation in the years ahead. 
“Technology is giving us new ways to help people engage with Scripture, especially when geography or circumstance makes access difficult. And we don’t do any of this alone — it’s through partnership with churches, agencies and supporters that we can help more people encounter the hope of God’s Word.”
BSA Board Chair, Andrew Wiseman, said the Board is confident that Mr Melville is the right leader for the organisation’s next chapter. 
“Chris has demonstrated deep commitment to Bible Society’s mission over many years, and throughout the recruitment process it became clear he possesses the experience, character and vision needed to lead BSA forward,” Wiseman said.  
“We are grateful for the way Chris has led during his time as Interim CEO, and we look ahead with confidence in both his leadership and in God’s continued faithfulness to this ministry.” 
Melville has served with Bible Society Australia for 21 years, including key leadership roles in mission strategy, international partnerships, and domestic ministry engagement. His tenure as chief of mission saw him work closely with global Bible agencies, partnering organisations and churches in translation, distribution, and Bible engagement initiatives.  
Melville said the organisation will continue to innovate while staying anchored in its mission. 
“We’re committed to trying new things, listening well, and working closely with the church and our partners. Our hope is that more people, both here in Australia and around the world, will encounter the hope and life that come through God’s Word.”]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Homelessness is preventable, charity says, as report shows Australia’s housing crisis deepens]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/homelessness-is-preventable-charity-says-as-report-shows-australias-housing-crisis-deepens</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/homelessness-is-preventable-charity-says-as-report-shows-australias-housing-crisis-deepens</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[People experiencing homelessness gather outside St Stephen’s Uniting Church in Sydney as a church-linked outreach team provides on-the-spot healthcare and support to hundreds of vulnerable individuals each month across the city.]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images ]]>
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                                    <![CDATA[ People experiencing homelessness gather outside St Stephen’s Uniting Church in Sydney as a church-linked outreach team provides on-the-spot healthcare and support to hundreds of vulnerable individuals each month across the city. ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:40:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[Australia’s worsening housing and homelessness crisis is not inevitable and can be prevented with the right investment and support, a leading Christian charity said Wednesday, responding to a new national report that shows millions remain at risk of losing their homes despite government assistance. The 2026 Report on Government Services – Housing and homelessness, published by the Productivity Commission on Jan. 29, found worsening housing insecurity across the country, with low-income renters i]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Australia’s worsening housing and homelessness crisis is not inevitable and can be prevented with the right investment and support, a leading Christian charity said Wednesday, responding to a new national report that shows millions remain at risk of losing their homes despite government assistance.
The 2026 Report on Government Services – Housing and homelessness, published by the Productivity Commission on Jan. 29, found worsening housing insecurity across the country, with low-income renters increasingly unable to secure or maintain affordable housing. In response, Mission Australia is urging stronger government action focused on prevention ahead of the federal budget in May.
Ben Carblis, deputy chief executive officer of Mission Australia, said the findings highlight not only the scale of housing insecurity in Australia but also the opportunity to prevent homelessness through early intervention and adequate support.
“This data shows just how difficult it is for people to find and keep a safe, secure and truly affordable home,” Carblis said.
“Even with assistance, many people are being priced out of housing and pushed closer to homelessness. Across Australia, up to 3.2 million people are at risk of losing their home from just one life shock like a rent increase, job loss or eviction.”
The report finds that more than two in five (43%) of low-income renters were experiencing rental stress and were at risk of homelessness in 2024–25, despite receiving Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA). It also reveals that one in three people (more than 56,000 people) who needed crisis or longer-term accommodation were unable to receive help from homelessness services due to the shortage of available housing.
Social housing waitlists remain unacceptably high, with more than a quarter of a million households (254,571 applicants) waiting for social housing, including 122,457 in greatest need on priority waitlists, a 12% increase.
Carblis said income supports are not keeping up with housing costs.
“Commonwealth Rent Assistance isn’t keeping pace with rents. When payments fall behind, people fall behind on rent, and that puts them at risk of homelessness,” he said.
“We urgently need the maximum rate of rental assistance increased by at least 60%, alongside a review of rental subsidies so they genuinely reflect housing costs. Increasing JobSeeker and other income support payments to at least $589 a week will also help people cover the basics and stay housed.”
Carblis said homelessness services are under growing pressure, while pathways into stable housing are shrinking.
“Demand for homelessness and housing services continues to rise. In just one year, Mission Australia’s homelessness services saw a 19% increase in demand,” he said.
“Every hour, more than 3,200 people in Australia seek help from homelessness services like those provided by Mission Australia. At the same time, our frontline staff face huge barriers helping people move out of homelessness because there simply aren’t enough affordable homes available."
Carbilis said the evidence shows prevention works.
“Almost all people who accessed our tenancy support services — 98% — were able to stay living in their homes and avoid homelessness,” he said.
“This shows that with a safe, secure home and the right support, delivered at the right time, homelessness can be prevented.”
Carblis also said building new housing must go hand in hand with support.
“At a minimum, one in every ten new homes built should be social or affordable housing. And these homes must be paired with the right support, particularly for people leaving homelessness or with complex needs, so families and individuals can stay housed and rebuild their lives.”
Mission Australia is now calling for stronger action focused on prevention and long-term solutions before the May Federal Budget.
“We need a National Housing and Homelessness Plan that prioritises prevention and stability, not just crisis response,” said Carblis.
“A $500 million AUS ($352,330 USD) Homelessness Prevention Transformation Fund would help people earlier, before rental stress turns into homelessness.”
“While current government commitments are welcome, they don’t yet match the scale of need. Around 640,000 households are currently unable to access affordable housing, and without decisive action this number will grow significantly in the years ahead,” Carblis added.
“Homelessness isn’t inevitable. With the right investment and leadership, Australia can stop homelessness before it starts and make sure everyone has a safe place to call home.”]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[73 million defenseless people were killed last year. Here’s why]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/73-million-defenseless-people-were-killed-last-year-heres-why</link>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.christiandaily.com/news/73-million-defenseless-people-were-killed-last-year-heres-why</guid>
                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[The Christian Post]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[Public march for aborted babies planned in Victoria, Australia, as politicians draw battle lines for the unborn]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Daniel Nebreda from Pixabay ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2026 07:40:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[More than 73 million abortions were performed worldwide in 2025, making abortion the leading cause of death last year. The figure draws on World Health Organization estimates compiled by the global data-tracking platform Worldometers.]]></description>
                <content:encoded><![CDATA[
More than 73 million abortions were performed worldwide in 2025, making abortion the leading cause of death last year. The figure draws on World Health Organization estimates compiled by the global data-tracking platform Worldometers.
The Worldometers total, based on a WHO fact sheet, places the annual global abortion rate at about 39 per 1,000 women aged 15 to 49. It estimates that 61% of unintended pregnancies, out of 121 million per year,
Compared to other causes of death, abortion exceeded all others by a wide margin. In 2025, cancer reportedly caused 10 million deaths, smoking-related illnesses 6.2 million, infectious diseases 17 million, and HIV/AIDS 2 million.
Worldometers, which tracks population growth, births, deaths, automobile production, book publications and CO2 emissions, among other data, reported a total of 140 million global deaths from all causes in 2025. Of these, 67.1 million were from causes other than abortion, meaning abortions accounted for nearly 52% of the total, as noted by LifeNews.
In the United States, Worldometers estimates between 1,500 and 2,500 abortions are performed each day. Based on 2020 data from the Guttmacher Institute, this reflects a rate of 14.4 abortions per 1,000 women and suggests that about 20% of all pregnancies, excluding miscarriages, end in abortion.
Although abortion rates have declined in the U.S. over the past decade, the total number remains high. An estimated 930,160 abortions were performed nationally in 2020.
The cumulative number of abortions in the United States since 1973 is estimated at 66 million. That year marked the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision, which was overturned in 2022.
WHO’s global abortion estimate includes both legal and illegal procedures. It is based on comprehensive modeling that updates earlier figures from 2010 to 2014, when the estimate stood at 56 million annually.
The updated estimate reflects population growth and wider access to abortion pills, along with improved data collection related to unregulated procedures.
The Worldometers abortion tally is published in real time and based on WHO modeling rather than direct counts.
The final figure for 2025 was reported recently.
Each abortion in the 73 million figure represents a terminated pregnancy, and biological details about fetal development are cited by pro-life advocates as grounds for opposition.
An annual March for Life event is scheduled in Washington, D.C., this month to mark the anniversary of Roe v. Wade and advocate for expanded legal protections for unborn children.
Originally published by The Christian Post]]></content:encoded>
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                <title><![CDATA[Child Evangelism Fellowship says it is on track to reach 100 million children with the gospel]]></title>
                <link>https://www.christiandaily.com/news/child-evangelism-fellowship-says-it-is-on-track-to-reach-100-million-children-with-the-gospel</link>
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                                                            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Eyte]]></dc:creator>
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                            <media:title><![CDATA[Child Evangelism Fellowship says it is on track to reach 100 million children with the gospel]]></media:title>
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                                    <![CDATA[ Child Evangelism Fellowship is reaching millions of children with the good news about Jesus Christ ]]>
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                                                                            <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2026 13:33:00 -0500</pubDate>
                <description><![CDATA[A senior leader of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) says the global Christian ministry is making steady progress toward its long-term goal of sharing the good news about Jesus with 100 million children worldwide, a target tied to its broader “Billion Soul Partnership” initiative. Fred Pry, CEF Vice President of Administration, said the organization’s expanding global workforce and volunteer base are positioning it to reach five percent of the world’s estimated two billion children. Pry made the]]></description>
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A senior leader of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) says the global Christian ministry is making steady progress toward its long-term goal of sharing the good news about Jesus with 100 million children worldwide, a target tied to its broader “Billion Soul Partnership” initiative. 
Fred Pry, CEF Vice President of Administration, said the organization’s expanding global workforce and volunteer base are positioning it to reach five percent of the world’s estimated two billion children. Pry made the comment in a New Year 2025-2026 update reflecting on the ministry’s worldwide outreach, training efforts and growth across the U.S. and most countries around the world.
“With 3,600 staff and hundreds of thousands of volunteers worldwide, we are well on the way to our long-term goal of sharing the Good News of the Gospel with 100 million children,” said Pry. 
Founded in 1937 by Jesse Irvin Overholtzer, it has grown into the world's largest evangelistic outreach to children, reporting that it reaches at least 25 million children annually across nearly every country.
Looking to the previous year (2025), CEF disclosed the ongoing outreach of its global programs to youngsters in local communities, which included Good News Club, 5-Day Club and Christmas Party Club, as well as online (the U-Nite streaming platforms) while training future leaders at its Children’s Ministries Institute (CMI).
Good News Clubs are reportedly “thriving worldwide,” in countries including Australia, Cambodia, Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uganda, and many more.
Pry said that as the organization reflected upon events of the prior year, ”we see how God moved in ways big and small.” 
“We see how He’s using our workers globally through our training programs and how He’s used them to expand our organization,” he said. 
“God is blessing the ministry of our education teams all around the world and our regional education directors, who’ve been working hard this year to increase the number of teachers trained.”
More than half a million teachers have been trained by CEF international instructors during the past two years. Training is ongoing at various locations, according to CEF. In 2026 the goal is to train a million teachers through online and in-person training.
God is not only doing work all around the world, but “He did some amazing things at CEF Headquarters through CMI,” according to CEF. Hundreds of students completed CMI modules both on campus and online to prepare for furthering God’s kingdom among children. The training equips CEF workers and volunteers to share the Word of God. 
Pry recalled how a student told him that attending CMI training had been one of the most meaningful seasons of his or her life.
“‘I’ve seen God answer prayers and show his faithfulness in ways that still leave me in awe,’ the unnamed student said, as quoted by Pry. “‘From the moment I arrived, I was surrounded by teachers who love the Lord deeply and serve with humility and joy. Seeing that consistently modeled among staff has been amazing and the standard I want to set for my CEF chapter and my team.’”
“Today, hundreds of thousands of teachers around the world are being prepared to join our workforce; to grow our impact and expand our outreach to children globally,” said Pry. 
More than 31 million children were reached in 2024 through CEF’s combined ministries, while at least 533,000 teachers were trained worldwide, according to the organization.]]></content:encoded>
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