Tag: Sorted Magazine

  • Friends of Sorted Magazine champion Sorted Digital online magazine!

    I’ve been astonished and encouraged by the many wonderful comments from friends of Sorted Magazine. When I first tabled the idea of a magazine published via Substack to Bekah Legg, and eventually to the whole team, I hadn’t a clue if Sorted readers would want to make that giant leap from print to digital. It seemed a lot to ask and I confess to being apprehensive about whether it would take off. I needn’t have worried at all, turns out you lot are far more tech savvy than I’d imagined! So many of you have come over to Substack and seem perfectly happy to read the magazine on your digital device.

    So I want to say a massive thank you for making the journey, for being part of this new adventure, thank you for your public and private messages of encouragement and especially for your prayers. These precious words mean so much to me, to Bekah and to the whole team. Here are just a few messages from the SD public comments section on Substack:

    “Thank you. Looking forward to seeing the project grow.”

    “I’m thrilled to see that Sorted Magazine is coming back in some capacity. It has been a fantastic magazine to share to the men’s groups I’m involved in. I’m very excited to see what the new version looks like and will be sharing with everyone possible.”

    “Looking forward to receiving the first instalment, thanks Val & team, every blessing!”

    “Great news, looking forward to the first issue. Only saying the other day that I missed the magazine. Will be praying for the team.”

    “Really well done Val.”

    “Great idea keeping the vision alive!”

    “Thanks Val and the editorial team for moving forward with Sorted Digital – looking forward to reading the first edition!”

    “Sounds great – glad you are continuing the mission!”

    “Looking forwards to the digital version. I do miss the magazines. So happy this has been allowed and a great legacy for Steve.”

    “Good ! I really like Sorted and it’s right that Steve’s legacy should continue.”

    “Brilliant … it was a really nice surprise to get the email. I have really missed my Sorted, and really looking forward to the digital version, sounds great and would like to support you – Val, in any way I can. Bring it on!”

    “So pleased to see Sorted reborn digitally. Looking forward to it.”

    “Well done for this initiative- supporting you and cheering you on!”

    Aren’t these readers wonderful?! Every now and then I sense a tiny glimpse of what it might have been like for Steve at the very beginning, all those years ago. Comments such as these have the power to propel a vision forward, because they reaffirm what God has already placed in the heart.

    The next issue of Sorted Digital will be out soon, if you haven’t already, please come along for the ride! Sign up for free here Subscribe to Sorted Digital.

    Here are some more stories about Sorted Digital online magazine:

    Announcement: A new future for Sorted Magazine – Sorted Magazine

    Christian Resources Exhibition (CRE) shares Sorted Digital news – Sorted Magazine

    CRE update: Sorted, socks and All Saints, Stock!

    Bekah blesses Val’s venture – Sorted Magazine

    Announcement: Dave Hopwood joins the Sorted Digital talent pool – Sorted Magazine

    Main Photo Credit: Joao-Paulo-Carnevalli-De-Oliveira via Unsplash

  • Announcement: Dave Hopwood joins the Sorted Digital talent pool

    I’m so pleased to welcome the versatile and prolific writer, Dave Hopwood, to the Sorted Digital talent pool. Dave is the author of over 70 books including The Bloke’s Bible, The Shed, Sons of Thunder, Raging Grace and Diary of a Wimpy Christian. His writing is warm, intuitive, engaging and accessible.

    Full disclosure: Here at house of Fraser, we are huge Dave Hopwood fans and we’re feeling pretty giddy about this latest development. Sorted Digital is all about publishing quality writing which informs and blesses the reader, while gently pointing them towards the God of hope. It’s good to have Dave on board to help out with that.

    Hubs and I sometimes enjoy an hour or so when we just sit together in the same space, quietly reading. It’s a special time. Many of Dave’s books have featured in these sessions including some of those mentioned above. However, the silence would often be broken by some laugh out loud moments!

    Dave is very familiar with Sorted, having written for the print magazine from 2019 to 2021. He enthused: “It’s a privilege and a pleasure to be writing again for Sorted, and it’s so good to have Sorted Digital online magazine as a means of encouraging and inspiring our faith.”

    Dave loves communicating the Bible using contemporary media, humour and stories. He is author of a series of books retelling the Bible. He passionately believes that the Bible was and is aimed at ordinary people, and that it is earthy, funny and incisive in the way it tells of God’s interaction with the world. These days he spends much of his time retelling the Bible using anything that seems useful, TV, movies, internet, adverts, news stories etc. He speaks at various places and regularly publishes ideas and material via his website www.davehopwood.com

    Sorted Digital is published monthly via Substack and delivered by email. It’s free and the next issue will be out in April, sign up here: Subscribe to Sorted Digital

  • Christian Resources Exhibition (CRE) shares Sorted Digital news

    Our good friends at the Christian Resources Exhibition (CRE) have shared the news about Sorted Digital online magazine with their supporters. CRE Press Officer, David Hall, reached out to Sorted Digital Editor Val Fraser to get the details. Val explained: “It was so lovely to chat with Dave and tell him all about the new project. He’s an old school journalist and really understands what the day to day work of an editor actually entails. I think we will be chatting again very soon!”

    Bekah blesses Val’s Venture

    Dave also included comments from Steve Legg’s widow, Bekah Legg, in his report. Bekah unpacks some of the organisational arrangements and gives her blessing to Val’s venture. Find the CRE newsletter and report on Sorted Digital here CRE update: Sorted, socks and All Saints, Stock!

  • Announcement: A new future for Sorted Magazine

    In September 2024 the founder and editor of Sorted Magazine, Steve Legg, went to be with Jesus. Before his death, Steve and his wife Bekah came to the difficult decision that the print magazine simply could not go on without Steve’s unique and sacrificial input. Following Steve’s death Bekah shared: “Now the race has been run. Steve has been, in his words, promoted to Glory. Please pray for those of us left behind as we face a future without our funny and faithful man – that we would continue to find joy in unexpected places and to find our security in the unshakeable kingdom of God.”

    Just a few days before the final print issue of Sorted Magazine dropped through letter boxes, God birthed a new vision in the heart of our Digital Editor, Val Fraser. She explained: “The vision of a digital future for Sorted Magazine had been burning in my heart for months. I couldn’t keep it to myself any longer and I finally plucked up the courage to outline a proposal to Bekah.”

    Now, many meetings later, Sorted Magazine has been lovingly re-imagined for you, our reader. We are calling it Sorted Digital. The editor of Sorted Digital, Val Fraser, is committed to faithfully upholding Steve’s vision for a wholesome magazine aimed primarily at a male readership. Sorted Digital will continue to offer all the great things which readers loved about Sorted Magazine.

    So what is different? Sorted Digital could be likened to a nimble, more frequent, mini version of Sorted Magazine. It’s lighter, leaner and faster than the printed version. It’s free to all (with an option to financially support). It’s monthly, shareable, paper-free, ad-free and algorithm-free. It’s an online magazine published via email (with an associated website). Expect to scroll through features, culture, cars, columns and humour, along with comment and conversations about life and faith.

    Bekah concluded: “I’m entrusting the future of Sorted Digital to seasoned media professional, Val Fraser, who has served Steve’s vision faithfully for almost five years. Won’t you join us for this new season? Whether you’re a longstanding reader or you’ve never even heard of us, we would love to have you on board. Existing email subscribers will automatically receive Sorted Digital online magazine. New readers can start receiving Sorted Digital online magazine (for free) by signing up here.”

    Main Photo Credit: Val Fraser

  • News: Author wins prestigious book award

    Digital Editor’s Note: It is with great delight that I welcome Louise Jane, the CEO of the prestigious Christlit Book Awards as a Sorted Magazine Guest Writer. My little book Notes from the North End of Nowhere was shortlisted for the Creative Future Writers’ Award, it has also won a Christlit Book Award and The Christlit Book of The Year 2024 Award. Louise has very kindly written this lovely endorsement. It’s very humbling to see my work standing alongside authors I admire, such as Joyce Meyer and Louie Giglio.

    Louise writes: Val Fraser’s Notes from the North End of Nowhere is a brilliant concept for a book that feels refreshingly original. I honestly didn’t know what to expect when I picked it up, but I found myself laughing out loud more than I ever have with any other book!

    The warmth and familiarity of the narrative enveloped me, making it the ideal companion for a laid-back weekend spent on the couch with a hot brew in hand. It’s the type of book that draws you in so completely that you lose all sense of time and space. As I read, I often found myself wishing I could sit down with the author to discuss her intriguing and inventive thoughts. Her unfiltered, candid writing style makes the reading experience feel so intimate and engaging.

    With a remarkable ability to weave beautiful metaphors, Fraser showcases a talent for imaginative and thought-provoking writing. While I was engaged with the text, I also found myself longing for the magnificent northern landscapes, like those in Wales and the Lake District, as each description stirred a deep appreciation for the beauty of our planet.

    One part that particularly stood out to me was the brilliantly written Notes on Noticing, which made me chuckle more than a few times. Val cleverly weaves together religious themes and humour, using sheep as a metaphor to demonstrate how Christianity can be a force for good, all while keeping that classic Northern wit. I couldn’t resist sharing some quotes with my Northerner pals, who enjoyed the humour just as much as I did. Additionally, the author’s references to TV shows like The Repair Shop and Gardeners’ World not only piqued my interest in watching them but also highlighted her ability to draw connections between everyday life and faith.

    Altogether, this unique and brilliant book is a must-read! And I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a delightful literary experience.

    Notes from the North End of Nowhere, published by scm, won The Christlit Book Award, The Christlist Book of the Year Award and was shortlisted for The Creative Future Writers’ Award. Available here Notes from the North end of Nowhere: An uplifting collection of narratives exploring northern resilience, cake and proper chips: Amazon.co.uk: Fraser, Val: 9780993574993: Books.

    Photo Credits: Getty Images. Book cover Val Fraser. Photo design and badge courtesy of The Christlit Book Awards.

  • Are close friendships possible in the workplace?

    Research carried out by www.hampers.com revealed that 61% of working adults consider at least one co-worker as a close friend. These investigations were carried out as part of an ongoing study into happiness in the workplace, following on from a study in September 2020.

    The study initially found that 90% of respondents are close enough to at least one of their co-workers to consider them a friend (up from 87% in 2020). What’s more, three fifths went as far as saying they’d class at least one co-worker as a close friend, if not one of their best friends (61%), up from 52% in 2020. According to this study the top five reasons colleagues were thought of as close friends are:

    1. We tell each other everything: 68%

    2. We’ve got a lot of shared experiences: 63%

    3. I enjoy spending time with them outside of work: 50%

    4. We’re always talking on the phone (texting or calling): 49%

    5. I feel they truly care about me: 37%

    Over three quarters of those who stated they spend time together outside of work said they have introduced their work place best friend to their partner, family or other close friends (76%). Almost all respondents (95%) stated that getting on well with their colleagues and having friends (close or not) helps contribute to their overall happiness in the workplace. In fact, workplace friendships are considered one of the key factors why UK adults would be hesitant to leave the company and get a job elsewhere (71%).

    Patrick Gore, Managing Director of www.hampers.com said: “The findings of this study were incredibly interesting, largely because we have data from just two years ago to compare it to. More UK adults than two years ago have someone they consider a friend, if not a close friend, in the workplace and this really can make the world of difference. There have been a lot of changes over the last few years as a result of the covid pandemic, with people made to work from home during the numerous lockdowns and feeling isolated as a result. It’s no wonder people are yearning for human interaction, even those who may still be working in a hybrid capacity. If we all took one thing away from the pandemic, it’s that relationships are incredibly important for our happiness and mental health.”

    Main Photo Credit: Unsplash

  • Comment: In the digital world, but not of it

    As the Sorted Magazine Team enthusiastically prepare to celebrate the one hundredth print edition, it has to be said that we’re also quietly excited about our growing online presence. Since Sorted Magazine’s Founder and CEO, Steve Legg, appointed me as the Digital Editor in 2022, I’ve watched with glowing pride as more and more new readers engage with us online. At the time of writing, the Sorted Magazine website attracts almost seven thousand visitors per month, with a current growth rate of 2.8%pcm. By my reckoning that’s potentially 84,000 visitors per year.

    Visitors to the Sorted Magazine website have increased significantly.

    The Sorted Magazine website is well populated with authoritative content and I’m particularly proud of our regular writers and columnists who work tirelessly to foster deep connections with our growing community of readers. We are in the world, but not of the world. We are not playing attention games, we are not a content farm publishing cheap outrage and culture wars, yet we do engage with contemporary culture in a measured, wholesome way. Our online readers can access exclusive writing from carefully selected thought leaders, guest writers, reviewers and dip into the occasional book extract. In addition to this, some of our regular print writers and columnists share bonus content, comment and opinion. Every now and then I jump on the bandwagon and add my own two penny worth.

    You’ll also find Motoring Editor, Tim Barnes Clay, reporting on his regular adventures behind the wheel, plus additional bonus shots of all those gorgeous cars! Tim is one of the best journalists in his field and though his obvious love for cars and driving shines through his flawless writing, you can absolutely rely on him to tell it like it is.

    Resident Sorted Film Critic, Andy Godfrey, reviews the latest movies. Readers can expect bonus content and interviews with stars such as Jonathan Roumie who plays Jesus in The Chosen series. If it’s on a screen somewhere Andy has seen it. His infectious enthusiasm for movies knows no bounds!

    In addition to the much loved Sorted menu of culture, sport, cars, health, gadgets and movies we are very grateful to J John who generously shares his deep spiritual insights with our online readers. For me personally, J John’s accessible and authentic style of writing is such a joy to read and publish. I find myself nodding enthusiastically when I digest his deeply honest wisdom, so often borne out of his own life experience.

    Join the growing community of readers at ewdpdev2.co.uk/

    If you find yourself becoming weary of the online world of click bait, shallow engagement, dopamine hacks and attention games, join the growing community of readers here at ewdpdev2.co.uk/ for a taste of something just a little bit different.

    All Photo Credits: Getty Images

  • The Last Laugh: “Warm, authentic, rich in wisdom”

    Extract from the Foreword of The Last Laugh by Steve Legg: It was one of those “Is this God speaking to me?” moments that many followers of Jesus experience. A thought surfaces, seemingly from nowhere, and its persistent luminosity makes us wonder if the Holy Spirit is broadcasting on our personal wavelength. Some believers insist their lives are punctuated with daily, even hourly, revelations. I haven’t found God to be quite so chatty. So when I do sense his nudge, I usually dash into crisis mode. Is this thought racing around my mind just my wishful thinking, is it truly the divine voice, or is it merely the aftereffects of last night’s chicken tikka masala? I wish God would speak with a louder, clearer voice, but perhaps he whispers because he wants us to draw closer, that we might hear.

    Back to my inner nudge. Halfway through a Sunday morning service, I was just about to preach when the thought surfaced again: “Take a look at my beautiful people.” So I did. I looked around at the sea of faces that was our congregation, and recalled some of their stories. Over there was John, who married after desperately longing for a soulmate for decades, only to lose his darling in a drunk driver-caused crash. Towards the back was Sally, who had poured her heart out on a lonely mission field. Not many responded to her life of kingdom service, but she stayed the course until retirement. Now she feels somewhat lost, surplus to requirements. I look her way but she is unaware, for her eyes are shut tight, her hands raised in worship. Beautiful indeed.

    And the whisper confirmed the truth that God who flings stars into being with a word, daubs drab skies with rainbows and paints deep sea fishes in stunning colours that no human eye will ever see – this God of ours finds the greatest delight when he sees hearts that trust him through mystery. In recent months, I have pondered yet another dazzling sight. Our dear friend Steve has been given a terminal cancer diagnosis. A tearful oncologist delivered the dreaded news that he had just months to live. There are hopeful possibilities with some radical treatment options, but he, Bekah and the whole family are treading a bewildering path: the remote possibility of a medical solution and their belief in a miracle-working God who can heal in a moment, all entwined with a visit to a hospice to discuss end-of-life care. But Steve and Bekah have decided. Even when life is threatened, it still goes on.

    The weekend after the dark diagnosis, Steve, a brilliant evangelist who uses comedy in his Tricks and Laughs presentations, performed at four outreach events. He is also the publisher of Sorted, an outstanding Christian magazine for men. Bekah continues to lead Restored, a non-profit dedicated to helping victims of domestic abuse. Recently, during a transatlantic phone chat, Bekah spoke of some of the good things they are celebrating, even as they pass through the valley of the shadow. “There is so much beauty to be seen, even in this horrible season,” she said. “We don’t want to miss the lovely things that God is surely doing.” That’s when we had to pause for tears because, in celebrating treasure that can be found even in darkness, Bekah and Steve have themselves become quite beautiful in their persistent faith and faithfulness. In the intense and unwelcome roller-coaster ride that suffering brings, they are clinging to God through the white-knuckle ride. They are, in short, a stunning sight.

    Often we focus on what’s wrong with the world and with the Church. Fixated on the failures of high-profile Christian leaders, we sink into despair. Preoccupied with the picky pettiness that breaks out when someone suggests moving the pews, we wonder if there’s any future for a people so resistant to change. But all around us today, there are quiet yet glorious examples of tenacious dedication. If you’re one of them, know this: your love for Christ surely turns his head.

    In this warm, authentic book that is rich in wisdom and void of cliché, you will find hope and inspiration. As you trace Steve’s journey, you’ll peer into the shadowland of suffering and discover that the light of Jesus shines brightly there. As you read, please say a prayer for Steve and Bekah, and their lovely family. And if you’re preoccupied with ugliness – in yourself, in others, in our broken world and imperfect Church – then know this: there’s beauty to be found in the most surprising places. Go on. Turn the page, and look again.

    The Last Laugh launches on December 1st 2023 and is available for pre-order here: The Last Laugh – Son Christian Media Ltd (square.site)

    Main Photo Credit: Courtesy of SCM