Beyonce and Faith, Gordon Brown and Pastor Mick; Lambeth Conference

Published: Aug. 7, 2022, 7:12 a.m.

The former Prime Minister Gordon Brown is calling for an emergency budget to support the poorest through the autumn and winter, as the cost of living rises. He\u2019s commissioned a report, co-signed by more than 60 faith groups and charities, which says there is a \u201cgrowing gap between need and current provision\u201d for the lowest income families. Edward Stourton is joined by Gordon Brown and Pastor Mick Fleming who runs \u2018Church on the Street\u2019, an anti-poverty charity in Burnley.

The Lambeth Conference draws to a close with the dominant issue of the week being the Anglican Church\u2019s stance on homosexuality. Two bishops with very different perspectives reflect on this and on the wider purpose of the global Anglican Communion.

The singer Beyonc\xe9's new album 'Renaissance' has gone straight to the top of the charts. Her music has often incorporated religious themes and imagery, which has made her both an empowering and controversial figure. Two fans talk about what Beyonc\xe9 means to them as black Christian women.

Producers:\nDan Tierney and Jill Collins

Editor:\nHelen Grady.