Shannon is safe, thank God

Nine-year-old Shannon Matthews of Dewsbury, who was missing for 24 days, has been found hidden in a flat not far from her home. A man has been charged with abduction.

As in all such cases, we don't know all the details about what happened, probably it will become clear later, but the important thing is that Shannon is unharmed.

Please include everyone involved in your prayers, especially this week when we remember that Jesus paid the ultimate price for all of us.

Horrific abuse on Jersey

The dreadful things uncovered at the former Haut de la Garenne children's home bring tears to my eyes.

While investigations are proceeding - and look to continue for some time - so far we have had reports of systematic abuse going on for years, some of it so bad as to result in injury or even death.

Although the home closed in 1986, many of the victims and abusers are still alive. Are the latter still abusing? What did they do it for? ("I was only obeying orders" just doesn't work.)

How people can spend so much time deliberately hurting others, particularly children, is beyond me. That their minds must be warped is pretty obvious, but an explanation - and with luck a cure - would be welcome.

I hope that the publicity, while welcome as it can help trace those responsible, is not distressing for the victims who will have got on with their lives now and may not appreciate being reminded of it.