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After images emerged of Russell Brand baptising several people in a penguin enclosure, Michael sat down with Anglican minister Howard Espie to explore whether this was ok, or whether the sacraments of baptism and communion should be approached with greater reverence in Uk Churches.
Released on 13 Jan 2026
Does life feel permanently hurried? Is your brain always running at full speed? Mutsa James, founder of the Kindred Workshop, and Caro Penney, Abbey Warden at the Iona Community, join Michael to explore what it really means to live slowly without dulling our ambition for the gospel — and why a quieter life isn’t about location, but intention.
As fewer young people are able to take up music in school, could the church step in? Musician and worship leader Simon Nelson chats with Michael about what makes someone 'musical', developing into a worship leader, and how you can learn guitar in just ten weeks.
From the earliest days of the Church, Christians have grappled with how to engage with political power. Jesus’ call to “render unto Caesar” points to both engagement and distance. Partnership with government has at times enabled churches to serve the poor and pursue justice — but at other moments has risked diluting the Gospel. Jack Palmer White and Bishop Mike Royal are part of ChurchWorks, and they joined Premier’s Michael Fanstone to explore the issue.