Confident Christianity

The apostles shared their faith in words people understood, in an environment where their hearers felt comfortable, and with opportunity for discussion. So should we! Confident Christianity is a one-day evangelism training course with a difference that employs just these principles. Since 1989 over 2,000 doctors, medical students and others have benefited from over 60 day conferences throughout the UK and beyond. A new 16-centre tour stats in Belfast on 26 October and finishes in Cardiff on 15 March 2003. Taught in an interactive style by CMF staff, the course aims to teach you to share your faith 'with gentleness and respect' (1 Peter 3:15) and to answer those difficult questions. Coming soon to a venue near you. Whilst the tour is aimed mainly at CMF's student members, doctors and non-medics are equally welcome. More information is available on the CMF website at www.cmf.org.uk/evang/conf/intro.htm of from the CMF Office on students@cmf.org.uk.

Freedom to evangelise

In view of recent difficulties experienced by some student Christian groups and their relationship with student unions and university bodies we have sought a legal opinion on this issue. The conclusions are as follows:

1. In the United Kingdom, there is both freedom of expression and freedom of religion; the courts will protect these rights against acts by 'over-enthusiastic' student bodies and universities.
2. Freedom of expression means that everyone (including both Christians and non-Christians) can express their views on the important socio-economic issues in societies.
3. Christians are free to express heir views on issues such as; that homosexuality is a sin, that abortion and euthanasia are wrong and that the unsaved are in a dangerous situation.
4. Language by Christian students must be moderate, but this applies to non-Christians as well (and offensive attacks on Christians are not permitted).
5. Section 43 of the Education (No. 2) Act 1986 provides that universities and colleges must allow full freedom of speech, freedom of religious speech and access to all university facilities (rooms, minibuses and notice boards).
6. The university authorities may make arrangements for the well running of the campus, but such arrangements must be reasonable and 'non-discriminatory'; if they are unreasonable, or directed against Christians, the courts will strike them down.