United Kingdom

London is one of my favorite cities. I am shocked and grieved at the sight of rioting, looting, and burning. Why is it happening?

Well, I’m no expert on the sociology of Great Britain, but the words of British historian and journalist Max Hastings ring true.

Writing in the Daily Mail, he says, “The people who wrecked swathes of property, burned vehicles and terrorised communities have no moral compass to make them susceptible to guilt or shame...They know no family role models, for most live in homes in which the father is unemployed, or from which he has decamped. They are illiterate and innumerate, beyond maybe some dexterity with computer games and BlackBerries.” more >>

LONDON – Young people have turned out in force this week to help victims of the looting and violence in London and other English cities this week.

Youth for Christ centers have been busy coordinating responses in their area, giving out food, clothes and support to those who have lost their homes, possessions or loved ones.

The organization stressed that although unrest, wanton destruction and criminality were on the rise, there were also many young people making a positive difference by helping to galvanize and even lead clean-up operations across England. more >>

The British government is considering taking a page out of the Arab dictator playbook by blocking social media to help quell the unrest that has erupted in England.

The government claims that social media networks such as Twitter and Blackberry instant messaging (BBM) are making it easier to encourage and organize rioting, which makes it difficult for authorities to regain control of the riot-weary country.

An example of a BBM that encouraged writing was obtained by . It read: "Everyone from all sides of London meet up at the heart of London (central) OXFORD CIRCUS!!, Bare SHOPS are gonna get smashed up so come get some (free stuff!!!)…Dead the ends and colour war for now so if you see a brother... SALUT! if you see a fed... SHOOT!" more >>

LONDON – The Bishop of Wolverhampton in the Church of England has praised the way in which communities have come together in the aftermath of the worst violence to hit Britain for a generation.

The Rt. Rev. Clive Gregory oversees West Bromwich and Wolverhampton, both of which saw rioting and looting in recent days.

He said the areas had witnessed two different realities but that the true side of the Black Country was the solidarity shown by the people. more >>

LONDON – As violent rioting continues throughout London, Christian leaders and politicians held a vigil of hope last night in response to the carnage.

In several areas of the city flames are ripping through shops and cars, as hundreds of hooded looters take to the streets intent on causing damage.

Despite the horrors, faith leaders and politicians united in an effort to bring peace to the capital. more >>

LONDON – There were moments of poignant reflection but also much laughter and thanksgiving at the funeral of John Stott today.

All Souls Langham Place, Stott’s beloved church in London, was filled to capacity with friends, relatives and many others who did not know him personally, yet had in some way been touched by his preaching and more than 50 books.

The queue of Christians waiting to enter the church prior to the start of the service stretched to a block away. more >>