Sorted Magazine

Author: Val Fraser

  • Faith: Running the race of your life

    J.John’s Olympic initiative has gained momentum and over 100,000 copies of his booklet about the life and faith of Eric Liddell have been distributed throughout the UK and around the world.

    Eric Liddell was a Scottish runner whose story, famously retold in the classic movie Chariots of Fire, focuses on his uncompromising desire to honour God. Liddell believed that his response to what God had done for him included keeping Sunday free from sport, so when he heard that the heats for the 100m would be held on a Sunday, he refused to take part. It was a courageous decision, and despite enormous pressure, he refused to compromise his faith and instead prepared for the 400m race, a distance over which he was not expected to do well.

    On the morning of the race, he was handed a note on which was written the Bible verse, ‘He that honours me, I will honour’. Encouraged, Liddell took the race at a sprint and won, breaking the Olympic and world records.

    J.John’s booklet entitled Running the Race of Your Life is written to create curiosity and conversation during the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2024. 47,000 copies of this booklet have already been distributed to UK prison chaplains and other prison-focused groups in preparation for a summer season of sport-themed ministry to prisoners. Other groups have ordered copies in bulk to give to parents at Olympic-themed children’s holiday clubs, foodbanks, door drops throughout the community and in schools and churches across the country.

    J.John said: “We are delighted that this booklet has already had such a significant reach. It is such a simple resource to be able to give to someone to stir curiosity and conversation. We are still praying that we might ‘God-willing’ distribute one million copies by the end of the year, and we are planning how we can further develop this initiative to reach even more people with the Good News of Jesus ”

    Abigail Irozuru, an Olympic long jumper explained: “This little pamphlet is a wonderful reminder of the power of sport as a vehicle to fulfil the gifts and purposes of the Lord in our lives. Everybody has their own ministry and it’s amazing that Liddell’s lives on in a legacy that has spanned a century. Thanks for creating ‘Running the Race of Your Life’ to inspire others through Liddell’s faith and sporting story. It particularly resonates with me as an Olympic long jumper; his story has always inspired me. Hopefully, in the hands of young people, this will be a great opportunity for them to reflect on what comes first in their lives – rightfully elevating God’s plans, purposes and promises in their lives, no matter how difficult that may be. What an important challenge for us all!”

    Copies of the booklet are available at raceofyourlife.co.uk. Costs have been kept as low as possible to enable churches and ministries to place bulk orders. Booklets are priced at 10p per copy plus postage and packing.  

    Main Photo Credit: Alexander Redl via Unsplash

  • Faith: Free Christian Festival in the Cornish countryside

    Creation Fest 2024 is a free Christian music festival featuring one hundred activities and a skatepark. It takes place over the weekend of August 1st – 4th at Royal Cornwall Events Centre, Wadebridge located in the Cornish countryside.

    The free skate park hosts daily skate sessions, demos, talks and workshops from a team of international pro skaters. There will be a packed programme of talks, art workshops, fitness sessions and sports activities. The children’s and youth programme are designed to keep even the most energetic kids entertained and give parents the freedom to enjoy all that the festival has to offer.

    Camping is available on site in either a tent, a caravan, or a glamping unit. This summer, Creation Fest is offering space to explore the deep questions of life, wherever you are on your faith journey. To find out more, see the full programme and book your day visitor or camping tickets, go to www.creationfest.org.uk.

    Main Photo Credit: Getty Images

  • Special report: Why did 1500 men gather in a field near Swindon?

    Each year around the time of the Summer Solstice, another significant event occurs. The Gathering is an annual men’s festival which has been run for over ten years by CVM – Christian Vision for Men. So why did 1500 men gather in a field near Swindon? Bob Fraser was one of them, he reports for Sorted Magazine:

    Bob writes: The Gathering is an annual men’s festival which has been run for over ten years by CVM – Christian Vision for Men. It always takes place in a field near Swindon. This year we saw an eclectic mix of activities like five-a-side football, sword fighting, wrestling, archery, axe throwing, climbing wall, Zorb football etc. and some indoor stuff like Scalextrix, board games, darts, and chess. There was an array of classic and high performance cars on display and a bar.

    Carl Beech (on stage) addresses the crowd in the main tent.

    It was something quite unique, and this year 1500 men booked in, many between the ages of 20 and 40. Free tea and coffee was available for the duration of the event. There was a doctor’s surgery, some inspirational stories, various seminars, some very silly moments, and a bag piper. Many of the men attending were from CVM groups located around the UK. Many others were invited along by a mate. I met several fathers who had brought their sons along. (you have to be over 18 to attend).

    A number of those I chatted to were part of an army of stewards. These are the guys who work behind the scenes looking after car parking, marshalling events, providing catering for the team and guests, keeping the toilets clean and helping set up and dismantle the site.

    Main sessions started off with Steve Legg (Founder of Sorted Magazine and all-round funny man) leading a sing-along and then hosting a darts competition. The Saturday evening main session included an international tug-of war competition, which England won, and a fancy dress theme, which this year was ‘Christmas’. There were some bizarre entries but the winning outfit was a close run thing between Bruce Willis and Baby Jesus, but Bruce Willis inevitably triumphed against overwhelming odds!

    But alongside all the fun and nonsense there was some more serious stuff about life, faith and hope. With his inimitable humorous style Carl Beech, CVM President, gave a clear and heartfelt call for men to respond to the Gospel. Nathan Blackaby, CEO of Christian Vision for men said: “This year was incredible. We saw about 120 guys come forward in response to the Gospel appeal from Carl, through the worship, the seminars, and the powerful testimonies.”

    There was live music, of course, and later on the Saturday night, a Madness tribute band performed, before the evening concluded with a huge fire pit to gather round. Main sessions saw worship from Graham Kendrick and the band, which this year included a pedal steel guitar player and a brass backline. Their version of Chain Breaker became a solid favourite of the weekend.

    John from Bolton was at The Gathering for the first time and had been really moved by the testimonies and all that Carl Beech had said. He also attended a seminar given by Tania Bright and Bekah Legg entitled What women want men to know. I attended that seminar along with about 400 others and afterwards John said: “I wish I’d known before I got married what I now know from attending that seminar!”

    Inside the mess tent at The Gathering 2024.

    Jonathan came for the first time with a group from Leyland near Preston. He compared The Gathering to other Christian festivals he’d been to and said: “There’s often an expectation to come as a model Christian man, whereas at The Gathering, it feels very open, very welcoming, and you can come just as you are.”

    Matt was another first-timer who enjoyed banter and conversation with other blokes: “I loved all the activities, the humour, the testimonies and all the activities on offer.”

    Many men don’t have much experience of worshipping with 1500 blokes. Neil from Leyland commented: “Worshipping with 1500 brothers in Christ was just amazing”. Andy from North Wales said: ”I’ve loved seeing Christian men coming together and being men! I’ve just had a go at the axe throwing and was rubbish at it! But we’ve come together and worshipped the Lord and it’s been great to be part of it!”

    Carl Beech (left) and Paul Gask (right) enjoying the Christmas fancy dress competition.

    Before I left the site to head home, I chatted with CVM Director ‘Gasky’ (pictured above right). He said: “I’ve had the privilege of serving with the CVM team and there’s been so many amazing stories of guys getting rid of all sorts of garbage that none of us is immune from, and surrendering it at the Cross. It’s been a fantastic weekend.”

    I believe that The Gathering truly is a unique event. Many blokes have already taken advantage of booking in already for next year’s Gathering at a discount rate. So many of the men I spoke to over the weekend were blown away by the atmosphere and had not come across anything like it before and were unsure how they might describe it to their nearest and dearest, or indeed their church friends when they get home.

    More info about The Gathering here: The Gathering (thegatheringformen.com)

    Booking info for The Gathering 2025 here: https://thegatheringformen.com/book

    More info about Christian Vision for Men (CVM) here: Christian Vision for Men :: Introducing Men to Jesus (cvm.org.uk)

    All photo credits: Courtesy of Bob Fraser (taken at The Gathering 2024)

  • Comment: Mental health tips for fathers

    Digital Editor’s Note: I’m pleased to welcome psychotherapist, Noel McDermott as our Guest Writer. Noel offers his advice to dads looking to stay on top of their mental health and improve wellbeing.

    Noel writes: Humans are amongst a very small number (about 5%) of mammals that have invested dads in childrearing activities and the only one from primates. This is because we have large brains, and our children are born too soon biologically and remain highly dependent for a very long time. From a species level the role of fatherhood has been pivotal in its survival, so no pressure there!

    Nevertheless, although most British homes are dual income these days, structural inequalities mean that often the family does rely on the income of the dad (and in this case male dads). So, earning and providing remain important areas of stress for dads. Being the primary earner can be an enormous pressure. Coupled with not wanting to worry their partner and increased isolation from social networks, as the family dominates, can lead to dads feeling overwhelmed. Life can become pretty narrowly defined for dad either at work or home with little outlet for social contact beyond that. Also, traditionally men as fathers, often don’t have the emotional support networks that mums might have.

    For example, a man may notice that a family and toddler group is often actually a mum and toddler group and if they turn up, they may be viewed with either suspicion or condescension. Often a male dad may become distressed when his partner expresses her frustrations at parenting. He may feel he can’t help or come up with solutions to these problems. Previous interests and activities can fall by the wayside, producing possible isolation and lack of regular exercise. 

    Noel’s Tips for Dads

    • Get involved with your kids and family no matter what. You will get health and wellbeing from that like nothing else.
    • Join support groups for dads and if one doesn’t exist, consider setting one up.
    • Get active, of the four pillars of lifestyle medicine regular active exercise is by far the most important.
    • Talk, you are not burdening your partner when you tell them you are worried about money, you are helping them understand why you are grumpy. That way they don’t have to worry they are the source of the problem.
    • Educate yourself psychologically, know the signs of distress, appetite issues, sleep issues, drinking, arguing and anger, isolation, concentration issues, being hopeless felling like a burden. Get help if you need it.

    Noel McDermott is a psychotherapist and dramatherapist with over 30 years’ experience within the health, social care, education, and criminal justice fields. More information here: https://www.mentalhealthworks.net/

    Main Photo Credit: Juliane Leibermann via Unsplash

  • Comment: Compassion UK challenges political leaders

    Compassion UK, a leading international child development organisation, has written to all nine of the leading UK political party leaders. Identifying a notable absence of focus on children in the campaign so far, Compassion UK is urging them to commit publicly to child-focused policies and transform the UK into a child-centred nation.

    Jonathan Prosser, Director of Innovation Lab at Compassion UK, made the personal appeal to the party leaders as the country prepares for the upcoming General Election, asking directly for a fundamental shift in policy formulation from whomever forms the next Government and Opposition in each of the four nations and for the UK as a whole.

    Prosser authored an article about this topic in the RSA Journal’s 270th anniversary edition that brings together experts from all over the world and sets out ten thematic priorities to enable country leaders to move from idea to action and impact. He said: “We have an unparalleled opportunity to position the UK at the forefront of a global movement by committing to become a child-centred nation. This commitment would not only foster domestic growth and wellbeing but also serve as a world-leading asset in foreign policy and diplomacy, delivering transformational outcomes for children.”

    In the letters, he calls on party leaders to create child-led policies by viewing them through the eyes of children; which would ensure their comprehensive development and wellbeing. He also highlights the need for a dedicated Minister for Children, ensuring foundational safety and resources, and valuing the social good of parenting.

    Prosser’s call is already garnering international attention, with requests for consultations from overseas government leaders and ministers. He explained: “Our 14 million under-18s in the UK must be given the world’s leading environment in which to blossom into adulthood with enhanced potential. This is not about achieving soft or vague outcomes; it’s about gaining a competitive advantage through better-equipped citizens living inspired lives.”

    With only a few weeks left until the new Government is formed, Compassion UK called on all parliamentarians to demonstrate leadership for the next generation, and commit to making the UK a child-centred nation, transforming millions of lives in the process.

    Main Photo Credit: John Lamb via Getty Images

  • Embrace the Adventure: Sleeping in the All-New Dacia Duster in the French Alps

    If you like cars but like the outdoors life even more, then the all-new Dacia Duster might be for you. Why? Well, everything will be revealed in a moment. But first, let me explain a bit about the model, writes Sorted’s Motoring Editor Tim Barnes-Clay.

    Fundamentally, the Duster has become a standard-setter in its market and embodies everything the Dacia marque stands for: ‘Robust and Outdoor’, ‘Essential but Cool’, and ‘Eco-Smart’.

    Sorted Magazine’s Motoring Editor, Tim Barnes-Clay, on his recent trip to the French Alps.

    This iconic car, recipient of over 40 prestigious accolades, is not just a popular choice but a proven one. Its growing popularity and its position as Europe’s best-selling SUV across all retail market segments in 2022 are testaments to its quality and performance.

    But what’s all the fuss about? I mean, it’s still only a car, right? Well, yes – and no. So, let’s get the vehicle bit out of the way. First of all, the fresh Duster features a stronger and more assertive design, reinvented by Dacia to push the striking looks of the previous generations even further.

    With deliberate taut, self-confident lines and a stylish belt wrapping around it, 2024’s Duster is more hardy and ready for the outdoors than ever.

    It is also impressive how the inside of the vehicle has all the essentials. The ergonomics of the design, from the large centre screen positioned perfectly in your field of view to the user-friendly controls, are bang on. The comfort and functionality of the steering wheel, with its flattened surfaces at the top and bottom, are also appreciated.

    As driven here, the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine (badged TCe 130) with mild-hybrid technology provides ample power from the get-go. The standard front-wheel drive is recommended unless you plan to drive off-road, in which case a four-wheel drive version is available.

    Mind you, I did go off-road – up the Alps – and two-wheel drive coped brilliantly. Well, I say off-road – a large chunk of the journey from Lyon to the French Alps was motorway – and even up to Lac de Saint-Guérin was hardly evil terrain.

    Okay, we risked having a puncture on some craggier bits – but we got away with it. And the trim? I was in the Duster ‘Journey’. It comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, automatic air conditioning, a hands-free keycard, an electric parking brake, a wireless smartphone charger, a Media Nav Live infotainment system with connected navigation, a six-speaker Arkamys 3D Sound System, and more.

    But enough about all that – and on to what the Duster can add to your life.

    What I mean by that is it’s not just a means of transport but a gateway to never-to-be-forgotten outdoor experiences. The all-new Dacia Duster’s relatively spacious interior makes it the perfect companion for adventure, offering the thrill of sleeping in the heart of nature.

    But how is this truly possible in a Duster? With a ‘Sleep Pack’, that’s how! First introduced on the Jogger, it’s now available for the all-new Duster. Part of Dacia’s ‘InNature’ accessories, it’s a simple, removable, 3-in-1 box containing a double bed that folds out with a tray table and storage room. The Sleep Pack measures 1.90 metres in length and is 1.30 metres wide.

    So let me set the scene – Duster, Alps, and all.

    I have always found something magical about gathering around a campfire. In the Alps, the crisp mountain air, the breathtaking scenery, and the warmth of the fire create a sense of pure tranquillity. Add to that the delicious aroma of a sizzling barbecue, surrounded by good food and good people exchanging stories, and you’re on to a winner.

    As dusk fell and the majestic peaks of the French Alps were bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, I couldn’t help but feel contentment.

    It was truly remarkable to experience the thrill of camping without compromising on comfort in my Dacia Duster. Equipped with a snug sleeping bag, comfortable pillow, and warm blanket, it offered a unique blend of adventure and cosiness. Bespoke blackout blinds and the soothing sounds of nature, including the tinkling of bells from nearby cattle, created an idyllic setting for a restful night’s sleep.

    Waking up to the pitter-patter of raindrops, I stepped out of my Dacia Duster into the fresh mountain air and absorbed the serenity of the Alps. Whether it was a leisurely but slightly soggy morning stroll or an exhilarating hike around an alpine lake the evening before, my Duster, complete with its ‘Sleep Pack,’ proved to be the ideal base for exploring this breathtaking region.

    Unleashing my adventurous spirit with Dacia’s Duster was indeed an incredible experience, one that will stay locked away in my long-term memory. Considering the number of car launches I’ve been on, that’s saying something in itself – believe me!

    So, hand on heart, the all-new Duster is a perfect vehicle for escaping the confines of urban life, embracing the freedom of the great outdoors and, vitally, enabling you to switch off, relax and truly live life.

    All Photo Credits: Courtesy of Adrien Cortesi Photography

  • Five-minute standing ovation marks the London Premiere of Unsung Hero

    The London premiere of Unsung Hero captivated audiences at the historic Curzon Mayfair, culminating in an extraordinary five-minute standing ovation. The film, which delves into the life of an unrecognized but impactful figure in history, left an indelible mark on its first audience, signaling a promising reception from critics and moviegoers alike.

    The premiere was attended by a host of celebrities, critics, and industry professionals, all of whom seemed moved by the film’s emotional depth and historical significance. As the credits rolled, the audience rose to their feet in unanimous applause, maintaining their standing ovation for a full five minutes. This overwhelming response underscores the film’s potential to become a critical and commercial success.

    Unsung Hero is directed by filmmaker Joel Smallbone, who has weaved a compelling narrative of the story of his childhood with profound emotional depth. Set against the backdrop of Nashville in the early 1990s, Unsung Hero follows the journey of David Smallbone as he moves his family from Australia to the United States, searching for a brighter future. With their six children and nothing more than suitcases, and their love of music, David (For King + Country’s Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife Helen (Daisy Betts) set out to rebuild their lives. David and Helen begin to realise the musical prowess in their children, who would go on to become two of the most successful acts in Inspirational Music history: five-time Grammy Award®-winning artists For King + Country and Rebecca St. James.

    Featuring an ensemble cast of talented actors including Joel Smallbone and Daisy Betts, alongside Jonathan Jackson, Candace Cameron Bure, Kirrilee Berge and Lucas Black. Through its compelling storytelling and authentic portrayal of human emotion, the film invites viewers to reflect on the true meaning of hope and sacrifice.

    Further information can be found here.

    All Photo Credits: Courtesy of Lionsgate and Unsung Hero Photo Unit

  • Faith on Film: Confessions of a Christian Film Critic

    Faith on Film, Confessions of a Christian Film Critic is a newly published book written by Sorted Magazine’s Film Critic, Andy Godfrey (pictured above). Sorted Magazine’s founder and editor, Steve Legg, explores the content and shares his views here.

    Steve writes: You may be thinking, A Christian film critic? Whatever next? A vegan butcher? But as I delved deeper, I soon discovered that this account differs from your average movie review book. In Faith on Film: Confessions of a Christian Film Critic, we are invited into a unique perspective on the world of cinema; one that seamlessly blends faith with film critique.

    As I delved into Andy Godfrey’s insightful musings, I was struck by the depth of his analysis and the sincerity of his reflections. Andy offers a refreshing perspective on an industry often criticised for its portrayal of morality and spirituality. With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of both cinema and faith, he navigates the celluloid landscape from an unapologetically Christian perspective. It’s as if Barry Norman and Mark Kermode had a cinematic lovechild, armed with a big black Bible and a bucket of popcorn.

    You’ll soon discover that Andy’s insights are as refreshing as a Sunday morning lie-in and as entertaining as a matinee double feature. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. But what sets his work apart is his unwavering commitment to exploring the intersection of faith and film. Through his careful critiques and thought-provoking commentary, Andy invites readers to reconsider their views on cinema and spirituality. Whether a devout believer, a film fanatic or a casual moviegoer, this book offers valuable insights that will leave a lasting impact.

    So, as you embark on this journey through the lens of a Christian film critic, I encourage you to open your mind and heart to the possibilities that await. Andy offers more than just movie reviews; he provides a window into the soul of cinema itself.

    Extracted from Faith on Film, Confessions of a Christian Film Critic, written by Andy Godfrey, published by scm and available here.

    Main Photo Credit: Courtesy of Andy Godfrey

  • Faith: SAT-7 feature film broadcast to in-flight passengers

    SAT-7 has announced that Toxic, their first feature-length film, is now available for travellers flying with Emirates, Qatar Airways, Saudia, and Kuwait Airways. The film’s inclusion on the in-flight playlists of these major airlines means that tens of millions of passengers are now able to view them.

    Maged Mounir, Executive Director of SAT-7’s Egypt office, enthused: “We are delighted that Toxic is now available to millions of travellers on these busy airlines, meaning that many more people will be introduced to the film’s message about the power of forgiveness. It also potentially acts as an introduction to the wider ministry of SAT-7, opening up the opportunity for people to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ through our other programs.”

    Toxic, an Arabic drama about relationships, trauma, and forgiveness, was shot primarily in SAT-7’s studio in Cairo. It has been broadcast a number of times on SAT-7 ARABIC, with more showings scheduled throughout 2024, as well as being showcased at four film festivals.

    SAT-7 wanted to make Toxic more widely available and enlisted a distributor to approach other platforms with the film. Toxic was funded in partnership with the Norwegian Mission Society (NMS) as part of SAT-7’s Current Affairs Project. Gro Smørdal, Director of Department MENA at NMS, explained: “In Toxic, we meet people with strong emotions such as love, hate, forgiveness, inferiority, and revenge. The film prompts viewers to consider what choices they have and how they should respond. Elegant, exciting, and reflective from SAT-7. As SAT-7 Partners, we feel so proud and excited that Toxic is available on major airlines such as Qatar and Emirates, and hope that many viewers will be impacted by its powerful message.”

    Toxic’s characters include a woman who is rejected by society because of her appearance, a Syrian man who witnesses the killing of his father by religious fanatics, and a Jordanian woman who faces oppression and emotional pressure at a young age. Although their storylines are initially separate, surprising circumstances bring the characters together, allowing them to share their stories and learn how to forgive those who have wronged them.

    Producer John Adly was keen to portray forgiveness, not as passive or weak, but as a powerful force that helps people live a free and fulfilling life. He explained: “In their search for a cure, each character realises in the end that revenge cannot heal their souls. Forgiveness is the way to overcome the harm done to them.”

    Main Photo Credit: Fasyah Halim via Unsplash

  • Culture: Stars read Shakespeare at Regents Park Open Air Theatre

    Former actress, bestselling author and poetry champion Allie Esiri and Regents Park Open Air Theatre present Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year – Live!

    Samuel West (pictured above)

    On Monday 8th July Allie Esiri will be joined by a star-studded cast of award winning theatre and film actors including Paul Chahidi, Damian Lewis (Homeland – main picture), Toheeb Jimoh (Ted Lasso), Stephen Mangan (Green Wing), Tracy Ann Oberman, Tony Robinson (Blackadder), Danny Sapani (Killing Eve, Black Panther), Samantha Spiro (Sex Education), Luke Thompson (Bridgerton), Samuel West (Slow Horses), Olivia Williams (The Crown), and Susan Wokoma (Enola Holmes), for a hugely entertaining evening of Shakespeare based on Allie Esiri’s bestselling poetry anthology: Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year.

    To celebrate 400 years of Shakespeare’s First Folio and over 90 years of Shakespeare performances at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Allie Esiri and friends will guide you on a journey through the Shakespeare you love and the best bits you don’t. There will be poetry, speeches and scenes read by actors who have a special connection to Shakespeare’s work and to the theatre itself. It was at Regent’s Park, for example, that homeland actor Damian Lewis spent a season playing Hamlet, that Susan Wokoma starred in the hit production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and where Samantha Spiro performed an acclaimed Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing and won an Olivier Award for Hello Dolly! Expect great performances, poetry, laughter, wisdom and wit.

    Stephen Manghan (pictured above)

    One of the UK’s biggest selling poetry books, Shakespeare For Every Day of the Year by poetry champion Allie Esiri is an inspiring collection of 365 poems, speeches and scenes from across all of Shakespeare’s plays, each with an illuminating introduction. Allie has published ten hugely popular poetry anthologies including A Poem For Every Day Of The Year and 365 Poems For Life as part of her mission to keep poetry alive and make it accessible for everyone.

    Susan Wokoma (pictured above)

    Signed copies of Allie Esiri’s poetry anthologies Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year and A Poet for Every Day of the Year will be available on the night.

    NB. Actor appearances are subject to availability. Check the website for updates to the lineup.

    All Photo Credits: Copyright remains with the individual artists pictured supplied via Tory Lyne-Pirkis.