Edward Stourton - Podcast Details

Shows

The InterviewBishop Guli Francis-Dehqani: “we were outsiders”“We were outsiders”Edward Stourton, presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Sunday programme, speaks to Bishop Guli Francis-Dehqani about her Persian identity and her faith. Bishop Guli is currently the Bishop of Chelmsford, a city in England, but it’s also being reported that she’s one of the leading candidates to become the next Archbishop of Canterbury - the most senior bishop in the Church of England.Although she is keen not to add to any media speculation, if selected, Bishop Guli would be a remarkable choice. Not only would she be the first woman to hold th...2025-07-2322 min

SundaySyria; Gaza Christians; 'Monkey Trial'Syria is facing perhaps its gravest crisis since the fall of the Assad regime last December. It began with sectarian clashes between Druze and Bedouins in the southern province of Sweida. Hundreds of people are reported to have been killed since sectarian clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes erupted in the province on Sunday. The Druze religion is an offshoot of Shia Islam with its own unique identity and beliefs. In addition to Syria, there are sizeable communities of Druze in Lebanon, Jordan, Israel and the occupied Golan Heights. Edward Stourton speaks to Dr Omar Imady, Senior Fellow...2025-07-2043 min

SundayChurch of England Stalking Case; Global Religion Study; Faith at GlastonburyThe Church of England is facing serious criticism from a stalking victim for failing to keep him safe. The victim was a male volunteer church warden, the stalker a woman lay preacher. He says he reported what was happening to the Church authorities - including Martyn Snow, the Bishop of Leicester. Ed Stourton is joined by the BBC's Religion Editor, Aleem Maqbool, who has helped uncover this story. The American Pew foundation has just published the results of one of its most ambitious projects - plotting How the Global Religious Landscape has changed over the past decade...2025-06-2943 min

SundaySudan; Elvis Presley; Catholic church closuresWith the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine top on the news agenda, it may be easy to miss ongoing war in Sudan. The medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has this week highlighted the extensive use of sexual violence against women and girls - some of them very young indeed - in the Darfur region. We hear testimonies from survivors and Edward Stourton speaks to Ruth Kauffman, the MSF Medical Emergency Manager for Sudan and by Dr Harun Issack Muslim Aids Country Director for Sudan. The King? A healer? An American shaman? We explore Elvis’ litt...2025-06-0142 min

The Documentary PodcastFrancis, the rebel PopeFollowing the death of Pope Francis, Edward Stourton looks at the life and legacy of the spiritual leader of more than a billion Catholics worldwide. He was elected at a time of crisis for his Church, but quickly transformed its reputation. He urged Christians to be less judgemental and more welcoming of gay and divorced people. And as the first Pope of Latin American identity and from the southern hemisphere, he put the poor at the heart of the Church’s mission, speaking up for migrants and refugees and those worst hit by the impact of climate change. Edward St...2025-04-2249 min

SundayKenneth Williams; Misogyny in schools; Israel-GazaArchive on 4 is available on BBC Sounds featuring previously unheard tapes of Kenneth Williams reading Bible stories. They were recorded by a young James Jones, now the retired Bishop of Liverpool when he was a young producer working for a Christian charity, charged with getting new recordings that would bring new audiences to Christianity. The tapes explore Williams's talent in bringing these well-known stories to life and 'open a window into his soul', exploring his own relationship with faith through the people who knew him. Edward Stourton discusses Kenneth Williams' faith with Mark Oakley who is the dean of...2025-04-1343 min

The Church Times PodcastEdward Stourton: Can truth survive in a digital age?In this episode, Edward Stourton, the veteran journalist and presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Sunday programme, examines how truth can survive in a digital age, and explains why truth-telling still matters. He was delivering the Sir Tony Baldry Lecture in Winchester Cathedral on 28 February, as part of the Church Times Festival of Faith and Literature (Features, 7 March). https://faithandliterature.hymnsam.co.uk “Technology can create challenges as well as opportunities,” he says. “Today’s digital landscape offers us an abundance — a superabundance — of sources for information, something unimaginable in the 1940s, and, indeed, in the three-television-channel world I joined in the 1970s. If...2025-03-1433 min

Radio OldieEd Stourton in conversation with Charlotte MetcalfEdward Stourton has worked in broadcasting for over 40 years and was a presenter on Today for many years. He continues to present BBC Radio 4 programmes like Sunday and The World at One. He’s also been a foreign correspondent for Channel Four, ITN and the BBC and has written several books, including his recent memoir, Confessions, is now out in paperback with a new postscript commenting on how presenting news has changed during his career. He was educated at Ampleforth and Cambridge. Charlotte Metcalf is a journalist, editor, award-winning documentary film-maker and was co-presenter of the Break Out Culture...2025-01-1336 min

SundayTrump victory; Church of England abuse cover up; Guildford’s new RabbiIn this week’s US election, Donald Trump secured the backing of 80% of white evangelical Christian voters. We hear insights from Rev. Robert M. Franklin, Jr., a senior fellow at the Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, and Walter Kim, President of the National Association of Evangelicals.John Smyth ran Christian summer camps in Dorset during the 1970s and 1980s. His “horrific” and violent abuse of over 100 boys and young men was concealed by the Church of England for decades, according to a new report. Edward Stourton speaks with Andrew Graystone, author of Bleedings For Jesus: John Smyth...2024-11-1043 min

SundayTrump victory, Church of England abuse cover up, Guildford’s new RabbiIn this week’s US election, Donald Trump secured the backing of 80% of white evangelical Christian voters. We hear insights from Rev. Robert M. Franklin, Jr., a senior fellow at the Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, and Walter Kim, President of the National Association of Evangelicals.John Smyth ran Christian summer camps in Dorset during the 1970s and 1980s. His “horrific” and violent abuse of over 100 boys and young men was concealed by the Church of England for decades, according to a new report. Edward Stourton speaks with Andrew Graystone, author of Bleedings For Jesus: John Smyth...2024-11-1043 min

SundayAbbé Pierre; Charedi education; Quakers at 400The French Catholic Church has said it will open its files on Abbé Pierre, the priest regarded as something like a modern saint until allegations of sexual harrassment and assault were made against him. The Abbé, who died in 2007, was revered for his pioneering work in setting up Emmaus International which cared for homeless and poor people. Edward speaks to the Paris-based writer Andrew Hussey about reaction to the story in France, and Pat Jones, author of a recent report on the Catholic Church culture and clerical abuse.The Jewish campaign group Nahamu has produced a damning pa...2024-09-1538 min

SundayGaza aid; Brit Awards; UK IslamophobiaMore than 100 Palestinians died trying to get food from an aid convoy earlier in the week. We hear from Gaza's small Christian minority, most of whom have been sheltering in two churches, as well as from ICRC's Matt Morris on the challenges aid agencies face in getting aid across to a people on the brink of starvation.The 26-year-old artist claimed a record-breaking six prizes, including Best Artist and Best Album. She also became the first woman to win songwriter of the year. Raye is outspoken about her life as a committed Christian, and has even suggested...2024-03-0343 min

SundayAsylum conversions, Jaz from Traitors on Sikhism, Siobhan McSweeney on St BrigidThe issue of converting asylum seekers to Christianity has been in the headlines this week with accusations that some clergy are naive or too eager to help asylum seekers stay in the country. We talk to a Baptist elder with experience of converting and helping asylum seekers.Jaz from Traitors won the respect of TV audiences with the way he played the gameshow, but he revealed it was his Sikh faith that guided him through the show and helped him be a true Faithful. The film Samsara – which has just reached our cinemas – has attracted some...2024-02-0440 min

Table TalkWith Edward StourtonEdward Stourton is a broadcaster who has worked as foreign correspondent for the BBC, Channel 4 and ITN. He is the presenter of BBC Radio 4's Sunday Program, and presented the Today Program for ten years. He has authored eight books including his most recent, Sunday: A History of Religious Affairs through 50 Years of Conversations and Controversies which is available now. On the podcast, he recalls chocolate-stuffed baguettes on Swiss ski slopes, reveals the disappointing breakfast options in the Today Program green room, and explains why heaven is eating oysters to the sound of trumpets. Become a Spectator sub...2024-01-3025 min

Best of the SpectatorTable Talk: Edward StourtonEdward Stourton is a broadcaster who has worked as foreign correspondent for the BBC, Channel 4 and ITN. He is the presenter of BBC Radio 4's Sunday Program, and presented the Today Program for ten years. He has authored eight books including his most recent, Sunday: A History of Religious Affairs through 50 Years of Conversations and Controversies which is available now. On the podcast, he recalls chocolate-stuffed baguettes on Swiss ski slopes, reveals the disappointing breakfast options in the Today Program green room, and explains why heaven is eating oysters to the sound of trumpets. 2024-01-3025 min

SundayThe ethics of surrogacyPope Francis has called for a global ban on surrogacy, saying it is the commercialisation of pregnancy and a threat to human dignity. Edward Stourton hears the experiences of a couple and their surrogate and explores the ethics of surrogacy with Christian ethicist Dr Helen Watt and fertility lawyer Natalie Gamble. The Houthis in Yemen have been carrying out a campaign of drone and missile attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, prompting US and UK air strikes this week. But who are the Houthis? What do they believe? International relations professor Simon Mabon explains the...2024-01-1437 min

SundayPower of religion at Cop28; Shane McGowan's Catholicism; Near-death experiencesFaith is front and centre at Cop28 this weekend. The Pope may have missed the climate summit because of health problems but for the first time at the gathering , a Faith Pavilion has been erected. Edward looks at the role religions can play in mobilising support for action on climate change.Hear about the near death experience involving bright lights and angelic figures that turned a manual labourer into an artist and composer Edward talks to priest Eugene O'Hagan about the faith of Shane McGowan who died this week at the age of 65. The Pogues's...2023-12-0342 min

HyphenatedWhy language matters when talking about Palestine and the BBC’s Edward Stourton on the importance of religious literacyThis week, Hyphen contributor Rabina Khan, Dr Richard McNeil-Willson, an academic specialising in critical extremism studies and the journalist and author Michael Segalov discuss why language matters when talking about the Israel-Palestine conflict, and Elon Musk's decision to reinstate the accounts of far-right commentators on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Sparked by the auction of a football shirt worn by the late Sir Bobby Charlton in the 1966 World Cup semi-final, our panel also reveals their most valuable items of personal memorabilia. Host Reya El-Salahi chats to the presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Sunday re...2023-11-0856 min

AnalysisFrance: a constitutional crisis in the makingThe USA, the UK and France, which have led the democratic world, are all suffering problems with their constitutions. But the problem is most acute in France, where President Macron has lost his parliamentary majority, and forced his pension reforms through by decree. But worse is to come; Macron can only serve as President until 2027 and will leave a vacuum at the heart of French politics when he steps down. And unlike Charles de Gaulle, he doesn’t seem likely to leave an enduring movement or an obvious successor. He hoovered up centrist support when he swept to power, an...2023-10-3029 min

The ProfileThe BBC's Edward Stourton: A life in broadcastingEdward Stourton has been the main presenter of the BBC's Sunday programme for over a decade, and has worked in broadcasting for more than forty years, during which time he has been a foreign correspondent for the BBC, ITN, and Channel 4. In this in-depth interview with Premier Christianity's editor Sam Hailes, Edward recounts the highs and lows of his career, tells us about his Catholic upbringing and continued faith, and introduces his latest book, Sunday, which chronicles half a century of religious affairs and ethical issues. Sunday by Edward Stourton is available now The Profile is brought to you by...2023-10-2749 min $Roger Bolton\'s Beeb Watch$ Roger Bolton's Beeb WatchEdward Stourton, BBC presenter and former foreign correspondent discusses journalism and religionEdward Stourton has worked in broadcasting for more than forty years, and has been a foreign correspondent for the BBC, ITN and Channel Four. He was a one of the main presenters of Radio 4’s Today programme for ten years and still regularly presents The World at One, The World this Weekend and Analysis. He’s also been the main presenter of Sunday – the radio 4 programme which looks at the religious and ethical issues of the week. He's recently written a book about it with his producer Amanda Hancox which we discuss as well as another very personal book Ed has publish...2023-10-1934 min

SundayPope in Marseille; Khalistan; Definition of IslamophobiaThis weekend Pope Francis made an historic visit to Marseille, France; the first papal visit to the port city since Clement VII in 1533. The purpose of the trip is to show solidarity with the migrants as the French government takes a stricter stance amid rising Mediterranean crossings. Edward Stourton speaks to French Christian Journalist, Sophie Lebrun.Relations between Canada and India have become strained after the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau linked the Indian state with the killing of a Sikh separatist leader on Canadian soil. Hardeep Singh Nijjar - a Canadian citizen - is the third...2023-09-2443 min

SundaySoul Survivor; 'Our Problematic Father'; White PrivilegeThe Church of England's National Safeguarding Team has said it will not discipline Soul Survivor's Mike Pilavachi. Pilavachi, who founded Soul Survivor church and its Christian youth festivals resigned four months after more than 100 people alleged inappropriate behaviour that including wrestling with young teenagers. Edward Stourton speaks to David Gate, a former Soul Survivor church member, who shares his first hand experience.The Archbishop of York said last week that addressing God as 'Our Father' might be 'problematic'. We've gathered the opinions of some theologians - Christian, Muslim and Jewish - about the gender of God. 2023-07-1636 min

Radio OldieListen to Edward Stourton speaking about Confessions at The Oldie Literary Lunch 13th June 2023Listen to Edward Stourton speaking about Confessions at The Oldie Literary Lunch 13th June 2023 2023-06-1510 min

SundayChurch yard allotments, Myanmar cyclone, New caritas bossAs the biggest cyclone in the Bay of Bengal in 10 years hits Bangladesh and Myanmar, we explore what this devastation means for the persecuted Rohingya Muslim refugees. Edward Stourton speaks to the Global Advocacy Director for Islamic Reliefs Shahin Ashraf.We speak to the British Catholic who is taking the helm of one of the world’s biggest aid organisations. Alistair Dutton has just been appointed as Secretary General of Caritas Internationalis, which does relief and development work in more than 200 countries. He tells Edward Stourton about the challenges of his new role and his hopes for th...2023-05-2143 min

Sunday16/04/2023In the lead up to Eid-al-Fitr Muslims are not eating or drinking water during daylight hours. There are some Muslims who feel they cannot break the fast with their family this Ramadan - many of those identify as LGBTQ+. Some charities and organisations have been holding events to make sure they can share an Iftar with others. We hear from the events' organisers. UN Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, speaks about what its like for ethnic and religious minorities in the country and what plans are to protect people.It's Easter in the Orthodox...2023-04-1643 min

Stuff You Missed in History ClassThe Brown Dog AffairThe Brown Dog Affair was a series of demonstrations and riots surrounding a statue that had been erected in the Battersea area of London, commemorating dogs who had been killed due to vivisection. Research: "Ethical Treatment of Animals." The Gale Encyclopedia of Psychology, edited by Jacqueline L. Longe, 3rd ed., vol. 1, Gale, 2016, pp. 376-380. Gale In Context: Science, link.gale.com/apps/doc/CX3631000262/GPS?u=mlin_n_melpub&sid=bookmark-GPS&xid=c1943190. Accessed 2 Mar. 2023. "How the cruel death of a little stray dog led to riots in 1900s Britain; Novelist campaigns for statue of terrier...2023-03-1537 min

AnalysisKing Charles' ChallengeThe Queen’s funeral appeared a resounding reassertion of our enduring commitment to monarchy, but was it a tribute to her rather than the institution? As the coronation approaches, polls suggest support is at its lowest ever, and the King faces difficult questions on several fronts. As supreme Governor of the Church of England, congregation numbers are falling and divisions are deepening over its stance on gay marriage. The union is under threat – what would the monarchy mean if Scotland votes for independence and Northern Ireland joins the Republic? Commonwealth countries from the Caribbean to the Pacific are asking whet...2023-03-1328 min

SundayLive from Rome on a decade of Pope FrancisEdward Stourton is live in Rome reflecting on ten years of Pope Francis. Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected in extraordinary circumstances and his first actions a decade ago marked him out as someone with a different style and priorities to many of his predecessors. It was expected to be a period of great change but how much has he actually achieved? Hear from two men who’ve been training for the priesthood at the Venerable English college in Rome, an institution that has been educating seminarians for hundreds of years. Find out how much Francis influenced their de...2023-03-1243 min

SundaySpiritual Bear; Better SermonsA teddy bear that was found washed up on a beach has been given a new lease of life and is now providing support to children and people living in care homes. The bear was restored by the Reverend Canon Eleanor Rance and its journey from discarded toy to "therapy bear" generated a global response on social media. The bear, named Sinbad, is used to help people to reflect on issues like brokenness and second chances. Reverend Rance tells us that people have found resonance in how he was washed up on a beach and then given a new...2023-01-3037 min

Listen, Relax and Enjoy the Wonders of Full AudiobookConfessions Audiobook by Edward StourtonListen to this audiobook in full for free onhttps://hotaudiobook.com/freeID: 589480 Title: Confessions Author: Edward Stourton Narrator: Edward Stourton Format: Unabridged Length: 08:33:37 Language: English Release date: 01-26-23 Publisher: Penguin Books LTD Genres: Biography & Memoir, Non-Fiction, Literary, Social Science Summary: Brought to you by Penguin. Brought face to face with the author of his obituary and his own inevitable mortality, Edward Stourton is prompted to reflect on the life he has led and the events that have shaped him. Ed was born into a life of privilege: the son of expat parents in colonial Nigeria, he was sent back...2023-01-268h 33

Unlock Top Full Audiobooks in Non-Fiction, Social ScienceConfessions by Edward StourtonPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/589480to listen full audiobooks. Title: Confessions Author: Edward Stourton Narrator: Edward Stourton Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 8 hours 33 minutes Release date: January 26, 2023 Genres: Social Science Publisher's Summary: Brought to you by Penguin. Brought face to face with the author of his obituary and his own inevitable mortality, Edward Stourton is prompted to reflect on the life he has led and the events that have shaped him. Ed was born into a life of privilege: the son of expat parents in colonial Nigeria, he was sent back to Britain to be educated by Benedictine monks at...2023-01-268h 33

Unlock Top Full Audiobooks in Non-Fiction, Social ScienceConfessions by Edward StourtonPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/589480 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Confessions Author: Edward Stourton Narrator: Edward Stourton Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 8 hours 33 minutes Release date: January 26, 2023 Genres: Social Science Publisher's Summary: Brought to you by Penguin. Brought face to face with the author of his obituary and his own inevitable mortality, Edward Stourton is prompted to reflect on the life he has led and the events that have shaped him. Ed was born into a life of privilege: the son of expat parents in colonial Nigeria, he was sent back to Britain to be educated by Benedictine monks...2023-01-2605 min

Listen to Trending Full trial Audiobooks in Biography & Memoir, MemoirsConfessions by Edward StourtonPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/589480 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Confessions Author: Edward Stourton Narrator: Edward Stourton Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 8 hours 33 minutes Release date: January 26, 2023 Genres: Memoirs Publisher's Summary: Brought to you by Penguin. Brought face to face with the author of his obituary and his own inevitable mortality, Edward Stourton is prompted to reflect on the life he has led and the events that have shaped him. Ed was born into a life of privilege: the son of expat parents in colonial Nigeria, he was sent back to Britain to be educated by Benedictine monks at...2023-01-2605 min

Listen to Trending Full Audiobooks in Biography & Memoir, MemoirsConfessions by Edward StourtonPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/589480to listen full audiobooks. Title: Confessions Author: Edward Stourton Narrator: Edward Stourton Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 8 hours 33 minutes Release date: January 26, 2023 Genres: Memoirs Publisher's Summary: Brought to you by Penguin. Brought face to face with the author of his obituary and his own inevitable mortality, Edward Stourton is prompted to reflect on the life he has led and the events that have shaped him. Ed was born into a life of privilege: the son of expat parents in colonial Nigeria, he was sent back to Britain to be educated by Benedictine monks at Ampleforth...2023-01-268h 33

SundayRemembering Pope Benedict XVIIn a special programme to mark the death of Pope Benedict XVI, Edward Stourton and guests discuss the life and legacy of the gentle German academic who became the spiritual leader of 1.3 billion Catholics all over the world.The 95-year-old Pope Emeritus, who stood down almost a decade ago due to his poor health, died at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery within the walls of the Vatican, where he had lived during his final years.He led the Catholic Church for fewer than eight years but is considered by many to be one of the most...2023-01-0143 min

SundayCourtney Pine, Qatar and Fifa, New Anglican DenominationsAlbania’s Catholic Bishops have raised concerns about the depopulation of their country through migration. Edward Stourton explores the impact of this with Sister Imelda Poole, who works much of the year in Albania and is President of RENATE, an organisation dedicated to combatting human trafficking. Jazz musician Courtney Pine is back on tour across the UK performing material from his new album ‘Spirituality’. He tells the Sunday programme how religion, spirituality and jazz have all come together in this latest work. The National Association of Muslim Police is calling for the word ‘Islamist’ to be dropped...2022-11-2043 min

Good Assassins7. Escape into the Mountains (Season 2)Virginia Hall’s identity was exposed. Now she had to get out of France and into Spain, and that meant an excruciating climb over 30 miles of tumultuous mountain terrain. Virginia knew that attempting the trek alone would mean death, especially given that she’d be hiking with her prosthetic leg. Luckily, Perpignan, the town she’d landed in, had a Resistance contact she knew fairly well. A man known to her by his codename: Gilbert.Edward Stourton: "If they were found out, things could be very, very nasty indeed and many of them who were caught went off in...2022-11-1729 min

The British Broadcasting Century with Paul Kerensa#057 100 Years in 100 Minutes, part 1 (1922-54)As the BBC turns 100, enjoy 100 Years in 100 Minutes! This is just part 1, 1922-54 - from the company years of Magnet House then Savoy Hill, to the corporation years up to the eve of commercial competition, the last time the BBC was the sole official broadcaster. For the early years, enjoy the archive clips, some very rare - from the first presenters, John Reith and early performers. As time goes on, extracts give way to insights: from experts, podcast listeners and those who were there... YOU HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO: 1920s: J...2022-11-1433 min

AnalysisEconomic Growth - can we ever have enough?As the twin storms of economic turmoil and worsening climate change grip the UK and many other countries around the world, Analysis examines the future of economic growth. Does it offer a route out of economic malaise, or have its benefits reached a ceiling for developed countries? And can further growth be environmentally justified, or do we urgently need to halt - or even reverse - growth to limit the effects of climate change? Can so-called “degrowth” ever be possible?Edward Stourton talks to economists and thinkers from around the world to appraise whether there’s still a cent...2022-11-0728 min

The British Broadcasting Century with Paul Kerensa#053 SPECIAL: Radio as Propaganda in WW2... plus Peter Eckersley & Hilda MathesonTying up our 'summer' specials (now autumn), part 4 of 3 (whoops) is this special on radio as propaganda in World War 2. The non-BBC story. Sefton Delmer sent black propaganda from near Bletchley Park into Germany, as Lord Haw-Haw did the opposite, sending radio propaganda from Germany back into Britain. Meanwhile Hilda Matheson (remember her from two episodes ago?) was sending transmissions from the JBC - the Joint Broadcasting Committee - in Woburn Abbey, also near Bletchley Park. And somehow between here, there and everywhere, bouncing between Germany and Britain and across Europe, somehow involving MI5 and...2022-09-1338 min

SundayPope John Paul I; Pakistan floods; Disability at churchHis was the shortest papacy in modern times. The sudden death of Pope John Paul I, after a pontificate of just 33 days, shocked the world and generated a host of conspiracy theories. As his beatification this weekend takes him one stage closer to becoming a saint, we speak to a man who was invited by the Vatican to investigate his death, John Cornwell, author of ‘A Thief in the Night: Life and Death in the Vatican'. The devastating floods in Pakistan have left millions of people homeless and destroyed buildings, bridges and roads. Vast swathes of the co...2022-09-0443 min

The British Broadcasting Century with Paul Kerensa#052 SPECIAL: Auntie’s War - with Edward StourtonThe BBC in WW2 is our focus for the third of our summer specials - longer-form chats with brilliant authors and their take on a century of British broadcasting. This time meet Auntie's War author and BBC presenter (Today, Sunday, The World at One, and plenty more), Edward Stourton. We can only ever scratch the surface in half an hour (what, no John Snagge?) - but it's a helicopter view of the key moments, from Munich to victory marches in Italy. Discover why reporting from Dunkirk to D-Day differed so much, and which BBC reporter gained notoriety...2022-08-3033 min

SundayFaith and Tory Leadership Contest; Krishna Das and his Spiritual Journey; Stories marking 50 years of Uganda Asians in the UKIn 1992 Pope John Paul II beatified just 17 individuals out of nearly 460 whose names were put forward as dying for the faith during the religious and political upheavals of 16th and 17th century Ireland. So what made these individuals stand out from the rest during this period? Former President of Ireland, Dr Mary McAleese chats to Edward Stourton about the stories she uncovered in her new book ‘The 17 Irish Martyrs’. 50 years ago, Idi Amin, then President of Uganda, ordered the expulsion of his country’s Asian minority. Around 60,000 individuals were given just 90 days to leave. Many went to Canada...2022-07-1743 min

AnalysisFrom Russia with loveAs Russia’s brutal war with Ukraine enters its fourth month, Edward Stourton asks who Russia's allies and friends are and looks at the nation's influence overseas. While President Putin has made no secret of his belief that Ukraine should be part of a “greater Russia”, what is less apparent is how far Russia’s influence is spreading in other parts of the world. These include sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. With the West having left a vacuum in parts of Africa, President Putin has been able to offer military help in unstable...2022-05-3028 min

SundayThe arrest of Hong Kong Cardinal Joseph Zen; The history of black nuns; A Russian QuakerGenerations of black women and girls who took up the call to religious life in America found themselves subjected to racism, sexism and exclusion from within their own Roman Catholic communities. Edward Stourton explores this hidden history with Dr Shannon Dee Williams, from the University of Dayton in Ohio and author of ‘Subversive Habits: Black Catholic Nuns in the Long African American Freedom Struggle’ and Dr Patricia Grey, a former nun and the Founding President of the National Black Sisters Conference. The war in Ukraine has prompted many countries to review their military strategies. But one religious grou...2022-05-1643 min

SundayPresident Putin and the Orthodox Church; Liberated Slaves; Religious MatchmakersOn this weekend’s Sunday programme, our Presenter Edward Stourton explores President Putin’s ambitions towards Ukraine and whether religion plays a significant role, with Marat Shterin, Professor of Religion at King’s College London and Co-Editor of the Routledge Journal ‘Religion, State and Society’. Islanders from the British Overseas Territory of St Helena in the Southern Atlantic Ocean are making plans to give more than 300 liberated slaves a respectful reinterment, after their bodies were exhumed for construction work on the Island. The Rt. Revd Dale Bowers, Bishop of St. Helena and Helena Bennett, Chair of the Liberated...2022-02-1343 min

SundayJoe Biden's First Year Report; Chaplaincy; Where Do We Draw Our Moral Compass From?As the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill continues its passage through Parliament, our Presenter Edward Stourton explores why the proposals on Protest are such a contentious issue, with Paul Parker, Recording Clerk for Quakers in Britain. Chaplains are appointed to work in all kinds of places outside the normal life of the Church, from hospitals to care homes, to schools, we hear from some of them on how they've dealt with the pressures of the past two years. One year on from the Inauguration of the 46th President of the United States, Edward discusses...2022-01-1643 min

ProfilePatrick VallanceThe pandemic has thrust the Government Chief Scientific Adviser into the middle of the clash between politics and science. He’s faced criticism from MPs, the press, and the public. Edward Stourton finds out about the man behind the pedestal, Sir Patrick Vallance. From fixing caravans on his parents’ site in Cornwall to breakfast with an mentor and a stint in industry with GlaxoSmithKline, who is the man advising our leaders on the pandemic? Presenter: Edward Stourton Researcher: Drew Miller Hyndman Producer: Ben Crighton Editor: Richard Vadon 2021-12-1813 min

Sunday"Brown" Bouquets; Faith After The Pandemic; Deborah FeldmanThis years' bumper wedding season - postponed because of the pandemic - means difficult flower choices for many a winter bride. The Chelsea Flower Show judge and Royal Wedding florist Shane Connolly believes that using unseasonal flowers at weddings and in churches is a real problem for the environment. Edward Stourton hears from recent brides who chose recycled bouquets and talks to Shane Connolly about "brown flowers" and why he wants churches to give up using plastic foams and imported flowers for good. In the first of a series Sunday Programme investigates faith in a post pandemic...2021-09-2843 min

SundayBritish Muslims views on Afghanistan, Vaccine inequity, The traditions of the Jewish New Year.As the Rt. Rev. Jonathan Goodall, the Anglican Bishop of Ebbsfleet resigns to become a Roman Catholic, we explore what it means for both faiths. Our Presenter Edward Stourton is joined by Christina Rees, who was a member of the Church of England’s Synod for twenty five years and also a prominent campaigner for the ordination of women, and the Right Reverend Monsignor Keith Newton, who is responsible for the Ordinariate of our Lady of Walsingham. John Viney, a former Jehovah’s Witness Elder along with a former Witness whom we are calling Sarah, give us their reactions to t...2021-09-0543 min

SundayClimate Change Boat Relay; Faith and Football; Cult SurvivorWhat will you be doing on Sunday afternoon? You could look to Cornwall where the G7 will draw to a close and a group of young Christians will meet at Truro Cathedral. There they will bless a wicker boat to be carried in relay to Glasgow in time for the UN Climate Change Conference in October. Edward Stourton asks if they can really hope to change minds with the trip and finds out why they're carrying the boat. Or maybe you'll spend your Sunday afternoon doing something else entirely. As England takes to the pitch for its...2021-06-1343 min

SundayBeirut Statue; Catholic Abuse Report; Who should get the vaccine first?It's over a 100 days since the blast shook the Lebanese capital, Beirut. In the weeks following hundreds of volunteers gathered to clear the city’s streets and repair the damage caused. Among them was artist, Hayat Nazer - who saw an opportunity to create a statue from the debris that would inspire hope for the people of Lebanon. The head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales has been heavily criticised for putting the reputation of the Church ahead of its duty to survivors of child abuse. The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse also said th...2020-11-1543 min

SundayGordon Brown; Bishop of Liverpool; Martyrs BookFormer Prime Minister Gordon Brown makes the moral case for full employment in an exclusive interview for Sunday with the BBC’s Harry Farley. A week after the city of Liverpool moved into the Tier 3 system of Covid restrictions, Edward Stourton talks to the Bishop of Liverpool Paul Bayes about how people in the city are coping and how to rebuild trust which, he says, has broken down during the pandemic. ‘However awful their end, martyrs matter still,’ writes Catherine Pepinster in her new book "Martyrdom". Edward Stourton asks her why.Producers: Catherine Earlam...2020-10-1843 min

Dark Unicorn in ConversationEdward StourtonEdward Stourton has been one of the most recognisable faces and voices in UK broadcast journalism over his 40-year career. From time spent with ITN as a trainee, then Washington Correspondent and Diplomatic Editor, he is perhaps most associated with the BBC, first as Paris Correspondent, then the anchor for the One O'Clock News on BBC1 from 1993-1999 followed by a decade as one of the core hosts of the Today programme on BBC Radio 4, and now, also on R4, a regular host of The World at One and religion and ethics flagship The Sunday Programme, as well as...2020-10-0248 min

SundayLeroy Logan; Prayer Wall; Witches PardonLeroy Logan spent his 30-year career with the Metropolitan Police trying to change it from within. He describes his decision to join the police as a ‘calling’. His autobiography, ‘Closing Ranks’ is out this week and he discusses policing, race and faith with Edward Stourton. The Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer got the planning permission green light this week but what about the prayers of none-Christian believers? Edward Stourton talks to Richard Gamble whose dream for a massive Christian monument is fast becoming a reality. And the woman behind the campaign for a pardon, apology and memo...2020-09-2043 min

SundayRemembering Hiroshima and Nagasaki 75 years on; Sheffield Cathedral Choir; Hajj in lockdownThis week is the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. A group of international leaders founded by Nelson Mandela called 'The Elders' is calling on people across the globe to reflect, pause and recognise the scale of the nuclear tragedy and they are inviting people to join them in crafting an origami paper crane and adding a message of hope. Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, is an Elder and she tells Edward Stourton why the unravelling of nuclear arms controls and the escalation of nuclear proliferation is still a global existential threat. ...2020-08-0243 min

Radio Moments - ClipsDe Gaulle broadcasts from BH in 1945 - Stourton report on Radio 4As the French government prepared to sign an armistice with the Nazis, President Charles De Gaulle turned up at BH on 18th June 1940 to broadcast to France on the BBC. This report, on the 80th anniversary of that momentous broadcast was compiled by Edward Stourton for Radio 4's World at One.2020-06-1805 min

SundayDJ Chaplain; Vatican's Covid-19 Commission; Prayers in the parking lotThe night-time economy in the UK has been hit hard by the coronavirus lockdown. Bars, restaurants and music venues have been forced to close. Luke Rollins is a DJ Chaplain and tells Edward Stourton how he is supporting colleagues whose work and lifestyle has changed because of the pandemic.The Rev Dr Augusto Zampini Davies has been appointed by Pope Francis to a Vatican Commission that is investigating how the Holy See can respond to the Covid-19 pandemic and what role it can play to help manage the social and economic changes that will follow. He tells...2020-06-0243 min

SundayCovid-19 Funerals; Charity Funding; Fuad NahdiAs the UK adapts to the social restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic, Edward Stourton looks at the impact it is having on grieving families at funerals. How do you greet people in a time of social distancing? Shaunaka Rishi Das, Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, tells Edward about the Hindu greeting known as the Namaste. Yahya Birt and the Bishop of Bradford, Toby Howarth pay tribute to the former Editor of Q News, Fuad Nahdi, who died last weekend. And why is Brazil's President keeping Churches open when the rest of the country is shutting down...2020-03-2943 min

AnalysisCommand and Control?When Sajid Javid resigned as Chancellor of the Exchequer in February rather than accept Boris Johnson's reported demand that he dismiss his own team of special advisers and accept a new one drawn up in 10 Downing Street, many saw the episode as a crude attempt by the Prime Minister to wrest control of economic policy from the Treasury. But would such a reform necessarily be a bad thing?Edward Stourton considers the case for economic policy being driven from the very top of government. If decision-making, in arguably the most important government department, took place on the...2020-03-2828 min $Iain Dale\'s Book Club$ Iain Dale's Book ClubChapter 57 : Edward Stourton and Lode DesmetThis week's guest are Edward Stourton and Lode Desmet and they're talking about their book 'Blind Man's Brexit: How the EU Took Control of Brexit' which was adapted from a documentary. If you enjoyed this podcast, make sure you check through the archive for one you may have missed or why not listen to For The Many, Iain's podcast with Jacqui Smith, Cross Question or the brand new podcast All Talk! Iain Dale Monday - Thursday, 7-10pm on LBC. https://www.iaindale.com/2019-09-0643 min

Fuel Your Mind With A Ground-Breaking Full Audiobook On Your Commute.Today by Sarah Sands, Nick Robinson, Martha Kearney, Edward Stourton, BBC Radio 4Please visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/84327to listen full audiobooks. Title: Today Author: Sarah Sands, Nick Robinson, Martha Kearney, Edward Stourton, BBC Radio 4 Narrator: Edward Stourton, Martha Kearney, NIck Robinson, Sarah Sands Format: mp3 Length: 20 hrs and 33 mins Release date: 09-05-19 Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars, 5 ratings Genres: Radio Publisher's Summary: In an era of fake news and new fault lines in global politics, millions of listeners turn to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme each morning to help them make sense of the world around them. The first ever book from the iconic programme marks 60 years of programming with 60 world-changing st...2019-09-058h 33

SundayReligion and MusicIn a special Sunday programme, Edward Stourton takes a look at the relationship between religion and music.He begins with Gospel music and talks to historian Viv Broughton, promoter Roy Francis and singer Dawn Thomas Wallace about music that has its roots in the black oral tradition and which has had a massive impact on the popular music scene.The Rev Dr Jonathan Arnold discusses why religious music is still popular despite declining attendances at our traditional churches.Edward also investigates the power of music to induce a sense of spiritual well being...2019-08-2544 min

SundayHong Kong Protests, BK Shivani, Catholicism and TransgenderHindu spiritual leader BK Shivani described as “the very modern face of India's ancient Raja Yoga” this week she arrives in the UK to start a European Tour. Raja Yoga is known as the ‘yoga of the mind’ and BK Shivani’s has a vast following of almost 4 million on social media. She's expected to fill venues across the UK. Edward Stourton has been speaking to her ahead of her visit. Also in the programme how religious groups in Hong Kong have been at the forefront of protests and are science and religion really in conflict with one another? Nick Spenc...2019-06-1644 min

SundayWitch Markings, New Zealand Mosque Attacks and Religion in ChinaExperts at Creswell Crags in Nottinghamshire thought the hundreds of markings covering the walls of caves were Victorian graffiti. Now they are believed to be Britain's largest collection of 'witch markings' from 16th - 18th centuries to protect people from the dark forces of the underworld. Reporter Harry Farley went to see them. The head of China’s state-sanctioned Protestant Church claims Western forces are trying to use Christianity to “subvert” the Chinese government and the Governor of Xinjiang province says the ‘re-education camps’ for Muslim Uighurs are reducing terrorism. Edward Stourton discusses religion in China with Maria Jaschok and Edmond...2019-03-1843 min

AnalysisIrish QuestionsVoters and politicians in Britain claim to be perplexed that economic and political relations between the UK and the Republic of Ireland seem to be decisive in determining the course of Brexit. They shouldn't be, argues Edward Stourton. A glance at the history of the countries' relations since the Acts of Union in 1800 helps to explain the situation. From at least the time of Catholic Emancipation in the 1820s, political, social, cultural and economic issues on the island of Ireland have influenced and shaped politics at Westminster. The point is that MPs and others at Westminster have seldom appreciated...2019-02-2528 min

SundayIsis bride, sex education backlashTania Joya is a former ISIS bride and now lives in the US and works in de-radicalisation. She talks to Edward Stourton about the Shamima Begum case. Sunday's Harry Farley reports on how some Orthodox Jews state they will leave the country if new Government plans on Relationship education are implemented. Martin Bashir reports from Rome on the final day of a major summit on clergy sexual abuse, as the Pope calls for "concrete measures" and not only "simple and obvious condemnations".US comic writer Mark Russell talks to Edward Stourton about his...2019-02-2443 min

SundayNigeria’s elections: A Sunday programme specialNigeria’s presidential elections on February 16 will decide who leads Africa’s most populous nation for the next four years. In a Sunday special from Lagos, Edward Stourton explores the effect religion plays in Nigerian life and its importance in the upcoming ballot. Religiously linked violence in Nigeria’s northern states and middle belt colours the backdrop of these elections. We speak to those affected and examine the impact the clashes will have on how people vote. Femi Kuti who, like his father Fela Kuti, combines music with social activism, speaks to Edward Stourton about the choices facing Nigeria. And as...2019-02-1043 min

ProfileJuan GuaidóJuan Guaidó - who recently declared himself Venezuela’s president - was elected to the National Assembly in 2011 and won the seat of his home state in 2016. But he only really came to prominence more recently when he was picked to head Venezuela's parliament, the National Assembly. US President Donald Trump has recognised Guaidó as the country’s legitimate leader - as has Canada, Brazil, Australia and the European parliament - but, for now, Nicolás Maduro is showing no signs of giving way. In this edition of Profile Edward Stourton traces Guaidó’s life and hears...2019-02-0214 min

SundayAlabama Window, Galileo Letter Revealed, MiraclesWhen four girls were killed by a racist bomb in an Alabama Baptist Church 1963,the late Welsh artist John Petts raised funds for the Church and created a stain glass window depicting Jesus as black. Now the window is in need of protection. Theodore Ted Debro Trustee, a Church Trustee, tells Edward why. A letter by the Italian astronomer Galileo challenging the official view of cosmology has been discovered 405 years after it was written. Dr Anna-Marie Roos sheds light on the significance of the letter. A ComRes survey for BBC Local Radio on miracles reveals three in five (62%) British...2018-09-3043 min

SundayExclusive bereavement survey, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Franklin GrahamSunday reveals the results of the biggest ever UK survey into how people of different faiths cope with death, dying and bereavement. Co-op funeral care Managing Director David Collingwood and theologian Douglas Davies discuss the results.The Archbishop of Canterbury has been accused of 'hypocrisy' this week for his criticism of Amazon, a company the Church of England has shares in. Edward Stourton asks Catherine Howarth of Share Action, how far investors can influence the behaviour of companies.Bob Walker speaks to Nobel Peace prize winner and former Liberian Prime Minster Ellen Johnson Sirleaf who...2018-09-2543 min

SundayEmpire of the Sikhs, Pakistan elections, Consecrated virginsPoonam Taneja reports on the Empire of the Sikhs exhibition, a rare collection of stunning objects and works of art that reveal the remarkable story of the Sikh Empire and the European and American adventurers who served it. BBC Religious Affairs Editor Martin Bashir looks ahead to this week's review by the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse (IICSA) of the case of Peter Ball, the former Bishop of Gloucester, who was imprisoned in 2015 for abusing young men. Following the publication of new Vatican guidelines on what it means to be a consecrated virgin, Edward...2018-07-2243 min

SundayAntony Gormley; General Synod and Fossil FuelsThe government announced plans to end conversion therapy this week after a survey showed most instances of attempted conversion therapy occur in a religious context. Harry Farley reports on the impact of this controversial practice and what it might mean for religious organisations that carry it out. Trevor Barnes is at the Church of England's General Synod in York reporting on the key issues and debates. Members of the General Synod are being urged to "strengthen the hand" of the Church's National Investing Bodies in discussions with fossil-fuel companies, by voting to increase the threat...2018-07-0843 min

SundayTory Islamophobia Allegations, Vicar of Baghdad, World Cup 'Morality Police'Thirty years since the start of construction began on the largest regeneration project Britain has seen in modern times - Canary wharf - the area's former vicar and now Bishop of Salisbury, Nicolas Holtham, returns to find out what's changed and meet some old friends still working in the community. The Government have announced funding to increase security at places of worship at risk of hate attacks. It comes in the same week a mosque and Gurdwara were fire bombed in Leeds. Home Office Minister Baroness Williams talks to Edward Stourton about how the new funding will...2018-06-1044 min

SundayA Sunday programme special from JerusalemAs Israel turns 70 this programme examines how those years have impacted on the three great Abrahamic faiths. Edward Stourton meets Dr Micah Goodman, of the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, to discuss the complex religious history of this land and the current mix of challenges and opportunities. Edward visits Bethlehem to hear how the anniversary is viewed by Christians and Muslims living in the city. Trevor Barnes reports on what the creation of the state of Israel has meant for British Jews. Yolande Knell visits the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem to...2018-05-1343 min

SundayBethleham, Bishop Sarah Mullally, Alternative ChristmasYolande Knell soaks up the atmosphere in Bethlehem's Manger Square as Christians worldwide prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus.Reporter Vishva Samani talks to women sleeping rough in Manchester and asks why their numbers are increasing.A Muslim, a Jewish and a Hindu family each describe what they get up to on the 25th December.Two years ago, the Butrus family fled persecution Iraq and Syria because of their Christian faith. As they prepare to celebrate their second Christmas in this country, they tell Edward Stourton about their flight and their hopes...2017-12-2443 min

AnalysisConstitutions at WorkConstitutions put controls on the people who run countries - but how are they created and how well do they work?In ordinary times constitutional debate often seems an abstract business without very much relevance to the way we live our lives. But political turmoil can operate like an X-ray, lighting up the bones around which the body politic is formed. Drawing on recent political events, Edward Stourton explores the effectiveness of the constitutions of the United Kingdom, the USA and France and asks are they doing what they were meant to do?...2017-07-0329 min

SundayThe first Archbishop of New York, Muslim leadership, AngelsThe Angel World Summit took place this weekend - bringing together angel experts and people who wish to deepen their connection with angels. The psychotherapist Mark Vernon, discusses the history and fascination of angels with Edward Stourton.A group of church leaders in Blackpool are working with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association on an event at Winter Gardens next year at which Billy Graham's son Franklin will be speaking. Nina Parker, Co-pastor of Liberty Church in Blackpool, tells Sunday why she and other church leaders are opposed to the invitation. Cardinal George Pell, Australia's most...2017-07-0243 min

SundayFaith and mental health; The 'lost' archbishops; Kirk may allow gay marriagesFrench voters take part in the first round of the Presidential elections on Sunday. Dr Charles Devellennes from the University of Kent tells Edward Stourton why religion, once a taboo in French politics, has grown in importance in political discourse.Pope Francis arrives in Cairo on Friday. He will meet the Coptic Pope and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar mosque. Fawaz Gerges, Professor of International Relations at the LSE and Samia Sidhom, of the Coptic newspaper Watani International discuss the significance of the visit for Muslims in Egypt.An influential report by the Church of...2017-04-2343 min

SundayGuildford Cathedral planning crisis, Sanctuary churches in America, No swimming on the SabbathThere's a risk Guildford Cathedral could close after a council planning committee rejected a proposal to build 134 houses on cathedral land. The Dean of Guildford Cathedral says money raised by the sale of the land would have provided long-term funding for the maintenance of the building. Trevor Barnes reports.Church leaders from South Sudan have called on the international community to assist millions of people who are facing starvation in the country. Canon Ian Woodward tells Edward Stourton about the historic link the Diocese of Salisbury has with South Sudan and what they are hearing about the...2017-02-2650 min

SundayA Christmas special from Hampton Court PalaceIn a special edition of the programme from Hampton Court Palace, Edward Stourton goes back to Christmas 1516 to explore the religious, political and social climate of the time.Tracy Borman, joint Chief-Curator with Historic Royal Palaces tells Edward that 1516 was a good year for Henry VIII. His first child, Mary, had been born and the Christmas celebrations he hosted were described as the most extravagant ever seen. But England and large parts of mainland Europe were about to change forever as the Protestant Reformation that was to begin in Germany in 1517 spread. Trevor...2016-12-2551 min

SundayThe Forever Project, Cosmo Lang, Deaf organistEdward Stourton asks Bethany Bell why the rising popularity of right-wing nationalism in Europe is so important in the Austrian presidential election.To mark the 80th anniversary of the abdication of Edward VIII, Radio 4 broadcasts 'The King's Matter', a drama on the deliberations of Cosmo Lang who was Archbishop of Canterbury at the time. The author of the play - Christopher Lee - talks about Cosmo Lang and his motives.The National Holocaust Centre has just opened an interactive exhibit called 'The Forever Project'. It displays Holocaust survivors as 3D laser projections which answer questions...2016-12-0443 min

SundayPrison's Week, Sikh Army Regiment, James MacMillan and the Stabat MaterIt's the 40th anniversary Prison's Week, a Christian initiative to support all those affected by prisons. As reoffending rates continue to rise Bob Walker reports on the many faith based groups working in this field and explores their effectiveness.As the death toll continues to rise in Haiti following the devastating impact of Hurricane Matthew. Edward Stourton hears from John Hasse of faith-based charity World Vision who is working on the ground in Haiti.Leading Sikh groups have voiced disappointment after Defence Secretary Michael Fallon ruled out creating a Sikh regiment in the armed forces...2016-10-0943 min

Sunday'Earth-walker' Satish Kumar, Sikh weddings row, the 'religion of human rights'Edward Stourton talks to The Tablet journalist Christopher Lamb about Pope Francis' visit to Assisi 30 years after Pope John Paul II attended the historic meeting for the first World Peace Day; Trevor Barnes looks at the row over mixed-faith weddings in Sikh temples; Jewish students fight the movement for sanctions against Israel; Rahul Tanton tells Edward about the growth of 'cow vigilantes' as the Indian government cracks down on the illicit cattle trade; putting God into London Fashion Week - as the Church of England releases the video "God and Fashion", Edward asks Simon Ward, author of "The Character...2016-09-1843 min

SundayCultural genocide; Greenbelt festival; Handel in ItalyFollowing a recent landmark trial in the Hague - at which Ahmad al-Mahdi pleaded guilty to destroying most of the architecturally and historically precious mausoleums in Timbuktu - Edward Stourton asks the question: Should acts of cultural destruction during conflict be classed as war crimes?Rahul Tandon reports from Calcutta on preparations to celebrate the canonisation of Mother Teresa.Bob Walker visits Greenbelt - the largest Christian arts and music festival in the UK.Edward talks to a priest about the comfort being offered by the Order of Malta to the victims of...2016-08-2844 min

AtheistAus PodcastBBC Radio 4 with Edward Stourton - AFA President Kylie SturgessBBC Radio 4 with Edward Stourton - Interview with AFA President Kylie Sturgess - Sunday 31st July 2016 2016-08-0300 min

AnalysisProtectionism in the USAEdward Stourton examines America's long history of resistance to free trade, and asks why it has again become such a potent political force. Donald Trump's most consistent policy has been opposition to free trade agreements which he sees as unfair, particularly with China. On the Democratic side, Bernie Sanders has been equally opposed, if for different reasons, while Hillary Clinton has had to tack away from her previous support for free trade pacts. Edward looks back to debates from the 19th century to the 1990s to shed new light on these forces. And he asks whether the protectionist impulse...2016-05-3028 min

SundayKaty Perry, Digital legacies, Christian music"The more we understand religion, the better able we are as a result to engage religious actors, the more effective our diplomacy will be in advancing the interests and values of our people".US Secretary of State John Kerry said this in a speech last month. Shaun Cassey is his Special Representative on religion in global affairs, he talks to Edward Stourton about his goal to achieve this.The BBC's Reagan Morris reports on the elderly nuns who are taking on pop superstar Katy Perry, as well as the Los Angeles Catholic hierarchy....2016-05-0843 min

SundayIs sushi permitted at Passover? Prince the Jehovah's Witness, The row over religious education in the UKFor 1000 years, Ashkenazi Jews have been forbidden to eat foods classed as 'Kitniyot' (e.g. rice, corn, beans, legumes) during Passover. But now authorities in the US have lifted this ban which means that Ashkenazi Jews can eat a variety of foodstuffs from Sushi to Popcorn. Charles Carroll reports.This week, the Foreign Office issued advice for LGBT people travelling to the US because of new 'religious freedom' laws allowing individuals and institutions to deny services to LGBT customers on religious grounds. Concerns have been raised about the All Party Parliamentary Group on RE which...2016-04-2443 min

SundayThe Pope and the family, God and the Gulag, Justin Welby's parentageAs the Panama Papers continue to shine a light on the off shore world, Edward Stourton talks to Robert Paterson, Bishop of Soder and Man, about whether tax avoidance is ever morally acceptable.Geoff Bird reports on the little known story of Francis Asbury, the English-born former blacksmith's apprentice who is credited with putting American Methodism on the denominational map.Pope Francis' much anticipated Exhortation on the Family was published Friday. Does it fall short of marking any real change or amount to a call for the transformation in the attitude rather than doctrine of...2016-04-1043 min

SundayModesty goes mainstream, Christian perspectives on the EU debate, Cardinal Pell faces his critics.As the EU Referendum campaigns get underway, Edward Stourton speaks to two Christians on opposite sides of the argument who are both taking to social media to garner support for their views. Adrian Hilton runs the influential Cranmer blog; Michael Sadgrove is the emeretus dean of Durham.A cross-party group of peers has written to the Prime Minister urging him to put pressure on the UN Security council to declare the assaults on Christians in Syria and the Middle East a Genocide. John Pontifex from "Aid to the Church in Need" tells Edward why the term is...2016-02-2843 min

AnalysisThe Idea of the CaliphateWhat is a caliphate? What ideals does such an Islamic state embody - and how could or should it be implemented? Analysis consults a range of voices to explore how the concept has evolved and has been expressed over the centuries. Edward Stourton talks to historians, religious scholars and political thinkers who offer their perspectives on caliphates of the past, the revivalist rhetoric of the present and the beliefs shared by many Muslims about its future return.Contributors: Prof Hugh Kennedy, School of Oriental and African Studies Sheikh Ruzwan Mohammed, Sunni theologian and scholar Rebecca Mastertron, Shiite...2014-10-2028 min

Mansfield CollegeSpin Control: Why Accuracy Matters More than Truth in Journalism - Edward StourtonThe fourth in our lecture series for Michaelmas Term 2013, given in the JCR at Mansfield College by Edward Stourton, news correspondent and founder member of Channel 4 News.2013-12-051h 01

AnalysisSyria: Inside the OppositionSyria's opposition movements comprise a diverse range of political and armed groups. But how do they differ in terms of their ideology, their modus operandi and in their vision for a post-conflict Syria?Edward Stourton investigates the numerous alternatives to President Assad and assesses which groups are gaining or losing influence on the ground after more than two years of bloody fighting.The programme will hear from those in charge of the National Coalition - the Istanbul based group officially recognised by the UK government but dismissed by some as "the opposition of the hotels".2013-10-2828 min