Inspirational Breakfast with Esther Higham

This year, over 29,000 people have arrived in small boats off Kent’s coast, seeking refuge in the UK. With over 50 deaths from the perilous journey, how do local churches support refugees and asylum seekers, and show them God’s love? Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin and Domenica Pecoraro discussed this with Esther Higham.

Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin joins Esther Higham as Guest Editor. They speak to former head of Pax Christi UK about how Christians can promote peace in Ukraine, the Bible’s view on war, and the potential of non-violent approaches to conflict.

What should our response be when someone who has embraced faith seems to be drifting away? Premier Unbelievable’s Ruth Jackson and Carl Beech, President of Christian Vision for Men, chat to the Inspirational Breakfast team about Kanye West, not walking on eggshells, and supporting those who may be struggling with their faith.

Bishop Mike Royal, head of Churches Together in England, joins Esther Higham to reflect on the Chris Kaba murder trial, the implications for policing, and how we as Christians can respond.

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 causes non-cancerous tumours on nerves, leading to disfigurement and physical differences. Recently, Oliver Bromley was asked to leave a South London restaurant because staff said his appearance was “scaring the customers.” How can we be more respectful and accommodating to people with conditions that make them look different? Oliver Bromley joined Esther Higham on Inspirational Breakfast to share his story and faith.

Suzannah O’Brien, chair of the Christian Funders Forum, and Matthew Parfitt, founder of Grace Enterprises, chat to Esther Higham about the vital role of Christian charities in the UK and how you can be a pioneer for change in your community.

We are often drawn in by the sad stories we read, watch, and listen to. But is this making us Trauma Tourists? Psalm 147 says God heals the broken hearted. So are these creative outlets part of His healing, or are they feeding a narrative? Pastor Jo Naughton and Theologian Joy Marie Clarkson discuss this with Esther Higham.

Joshua Whitehouse is part of the team at Go Chatter Studios, who are recreating the Bible in LEGO stop-motion. He spoke with Premier's Esther Higham about the toy's enduring popularity, his hopes of bringing the Bible to a new audience, and the incredible amount of work required to create just one second of animation.

Leadership in the church is under much scrutiny. Questions are being raised around the world about whether church leaders are truly leading like Jesus. The Bible encourages us in Hebrews 13:7 to “…imitate their faith.” So, how do we raise up people whose life and faith are worthy of imitation? Former Baptist pastor and CEO of Arable, Karl Martin, joined Esther Higham to discuss this.

Social media has been buzzing about Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as the new England football manager. While many celebrate, others question why an Englishman isn’t leading the team. Do leaders need to be similar to their followers to connect with them? Journalist and minister Peter Crumpler and Christian Wienkamp from Sports Chaplaincy UK discussed this with Esther Higham.

Do short-term mission trips still have a place in today’s world? Matthew 28:19 tells us to "go and make disciples of all nations," but how do we deal with concerns about cultural sensitivity and global power dynamics when it comes to our trips abroad? Esther Higham spoke to Nathaniel Jennings, from OMF, and Danielle Face, chair of the Global Connections short-term mission forum.

Have you ever been at your lowest and then someone makes you laugh, changing everything in that moment? The Bible in Job 5:22 says, "You will laugh at destruction and famine, and need not fear the wild animals." What makes laughter so special to God? Is it truly the best medicine? TikTok creators and authors of Able to Laugh, John and Jade Reynolds, discuss this with Esther Higham.

Parliament will be debating a bill on assisted suicide for terminally ill people later today, with a vote next month. Celebrity support and MP Kim Leadbetter’s private members’ bill have reignited the issue, but Christian leaders, including Archbishop Justin Welby, have been warning of ethical concerns and potential dangers for medical professionals. Esther Higham spoke to Professor Julian Hughes and Jamie Gillies, from Christian think-tank CARE, to hear their concerns.

As of March 2024, 19.3% of offenders were employed six weeks post-release (excluding those unavailable for work or with unknown employment status). Despite this, many ex-offenders struggle to restart their lives. Helping them can be challenging, but it's something God supports. How can we aid ex-offenders in their recovery when the system is against them? Lindsey Middleton (180 Project), Josh Dalton (180 Project), and Jane Gould (Clean Sheet) joined Esther Higham to discuss this.

Photographer Christopher Hall chats with Esther Higham about coming off the streets, challenging perceptions of homelessness through his craft, and how his story of faith started with a Psalm and a painting.