It is clear that the new variant of the virus has caused a rapid and alarming increase in coronavirus infections.

The United Reformed Church (URC) National Synod of Scotland is sad to learn that some church leaders are threatening legal action if the Scottish government does not reverse its decision to close places of worship during the current phase of the Covid-19 pandemic.

February’s edition of Reform magazine is out on 31 January. A range of subscription options can be found here. In the meantime, we hope this article from the last issue whets your appetite:

Belief in God is dying in the west, says Martin Camroux, but the mystery of God is inescapable.

The Revd Dr Kevin Snyman, who leads Commitment for Life, the United Reformed Church’s (URC) global justice programme, has curated the Fairtrade Foundation’s online Ecumenical Service of Worship, for Fairtrade Fortnight (22 February to 7 March).

This year, Fairtrade Fortnight is themed 'Choose the world you want' and the service, created in collaboration with other Christian organisations, is a key part of the Foundation’s online festival – a series of digital events organised for the first time this year.