Christianity ‘close to extinction’ in Middle East – Telegraph

A troubling article in the Telegraph via Harry’s place:
Christianity close to extinction in the Middle East
Regardless of what you may think about the power structures of any of the Christian sects this is persecution of ordinary people trying to live ordinary lives. Apart from a few blogs and newspaper articles like this the level of persecution is getting very little attention, the cynic in me wonders if that’s due to the faith of the persecutors or the persecuted.

A worthy cause

(Another one first posted over at Drinkuary.org)

Whilst it can seem that the world and dog are after our money at this time of year, here’s a worthy cause for your attention:
Cocktails in Care Homes

“Cocktails in Care Homes is a project run by arts charity Magic Me. Every week Magic Me volunteers visit a local (Tower Hamlets) care home to host an evening cocktail party. Residents get dressed up and look forward to the special occasion. For many this is the only visit they get and residents enjoy begin in touch with the wider community.

Cheering up someone’s Christmas and annoying the puritans would could be a better thing?

(Tip of the hat to Orphans of Liberty for the link)

A stirring ditty


Via the Anglo Saxon Chronicles a stirring ditty with which I’d hope few would argue. Though I wouldn’t make an exceptionn for Tony Benn myself