Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK.

Find out how to listen to other BBC stations

Episode details

Radio Ulster,22 Feb 2026,57 mins

Fasting, Drive Through Ashes, PCI Assembly

Sunday Sequence

Available for 28 days

It's a unique moment in the Islamic and Christian calendars as the seasons of Ramadan and Lent coincide. Fasting is central to both, so this morning we are examining the role of fasting in today's world. Whether for spiritual reasons or wellness and lifestyle reasons: Is it a sacred path to renewal and wellness? Audrey speaks to Dr Naomi Green, Dr Tina Beattie and Pastor Andrew Gibson. The Presbyterian Church in Ireland held a second special meeting of its general assembly on Wednesday - in response to the safeguarding scandal which has engulfed the church since its moderator and clerk the Reverend Dr Trevor Gribben resigned in November. Alan Meban reports from the Assembly and former Moderator Rev Dr Norman Hamilton gives his response. And is this the way forward? Jim Deeds joins the drive through queue to get Ashes at a North Belfast Church and finds himself surprisingly moved and blessed by the experience.

Programme Website
More episodes