Robbie Williams Riles Christians With Foul Language In Flagship Church

A concert broadcast by the BBC from Methodist Central Hall Westminster has been criticised on social media for Williams' foul language and the skimpy apparel of his backing dancers, which some Methodists felt were inappropriate for a church building.

The building near London's Parliament Square is used as a conference centre as well as having a thriving congregation and has previously been criticised for hosting a UKIP party conference.

Superintendent minister Rev Martyn Atkins and the conference centre's managing director Paul Southern said they were "saddened and disappointed" by Williams' behaviour.

In a statement they said: "Central Hall Westminster Ltd agreed with and made clear to the BBC, as it does to all its many clients, the terms and basis for events taking place here, recognising it is – and remains – a place of Christian worship in the Methodist tradition.

"It is clear from the 'live on-air' comments by Robbie Williams that these had been communicated to him, ('I've been asked by 50 people at the BBC not to swear') but he chose to ignore this. We are saddened and disappointed that Robbie Williams chose to do this and are assured that Central Hall Westminster Ltd will be communicating our concerns and those raised by others to the BBC."

However, they added: "Despite this particular event, we remain delighted that this special place hosts so many fine, worthwhile and wonderful occasions.

"Public worship took place here on Sunday January 1, as on every Sunday, when a full chapel marked a new year and committed themselves to God and the purposes of God's kingdom."

News
Is New Zealand experiencing its own 'Quiet Revival'?
Is New Zealand experiencing its own 'Quiet Revival'?

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. 

Worship leader Ron Kenoly dies at 81
Worship leader Ron Kenoly dies at 81

Ron Kenoly, a pioneering Christian worship leader whose anthems helped shape modern praise music and whose ministry emphasized worship as service rather than performance, has died. He was 81.

Petition launched to ensure single-sex changing rooms in NHS
Petition launched to ensure single-sex changing rooms in NHS

Wes Streeting has been dragging his feet on the issue.

Evangelical leader resigns canon title over controversial same-sex blessings
Evangelical leader resigns canon title over controversial same-sex blessings

Attempts to reconsider the use of the controversial prayers were rebuffed.