Franz Hasel – The Soldier Who Defied Hitler
In 1939, Franz Hasel, a 40-year-old pacifist, received a draft summons, leading him to serve as a Private in the Pioneer Company 699 of the German army. Despite donning the uniform, he opposed the Nazi regime and risked his life to warn villagers of impending danger from SS death squads. In a daring move, he even informed his sergeant that Hitler wouldn’t win the war during the advance into Russia. These actions amounted to treason, punishable by death, yet Hasel survived. His story unfolds as a testament to his defiance against societal norms and his belief in a higher law amidst the chaos of war.
Marie Durand – Imprisoned but Free
Marie Durand was 19 years old when she was imprisoned in the Tower of Constance in France. Her crime was having a brother who was a Protestant minister. She …
Walking With Reindeer
The Sami are known as the people ‘who walk with reindeer’, but they not only walk with reindeer, they also rest with them, and they bring us a reminder of an…
The Christmas Truce of 1914
World War I, often called the war to end all wars, began in 1914 after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, an event that ignited the already rising tensions among European nations. The war commenced in August with widespread enthusiasm, as young men rushed to enlist, believing they would return home by Christmas. However, by December, the optimism for a swift victory had vanished, replaced by the harsh reality of trench warfare. Millions of soldiers found themselves in muddy trenches, separated by a deadly no man’s land filled with barbed wire and the fallen. As the cold winter of 1914 settled over the Western Front and Christmas approached, the mood was sombre, with many experiencing their first Christmas away from home. The contrast between the season’s message of peace and the brutal daily realities of war was stark. Yet, on Christmas Day 1914, something extraordinary occurred—a moment of unexpected humanity as the guns fell silent. Join Gary Kent as we explore the trenches of the Western Front and uncover the story of this remarkable day.
Messiah – Handel’s Masterpiece
Music touches the soul, and one of the most famous musicians of all time was George Frideric Handel. He was a prolific writer of operas and oratorios. Handel’s Zadok the Priest has been performed at every British coronation since 1727. His orchestral works Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks are also incredibly popular and are often performed at the BBC Proms. But he is probably most famous for his Messiah, an oratorio that is staged all around the world during the Christmas season. The stirring music causes people to leap to their feet, inspired by the magnificent words and harmonies. Join Gary Kent as we find out more about George Frideric Handel and his music, which has changed the world.
Queen Elizabeth II – The Power Behind the Throne
In 2015 Queen Elizabeth II became the longest-reigning monarch in British history, exceeding the tenure of her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria. And then 7 years later in 2022, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated another milestone—a 70-year reign—a Platinum Jubilee. She was loved and admired by many and was the longest-reigning English monarch ever. She was an anchor for her nation and the Commonwealth. But did she have an anchor? Where did she get her direction, guidance, and inner peace from? The answer may surprise you and perhaps give us some guidance regarding an anchor for our lives. Find out more in our program: Queen Elizabeth II – The Power Behind the Throne.
Titanic – An Australian Love Story – Evelyn Marsden
Evelyn Marsden, the only Australian female survivor of the Titanic, was a dedicated nurse with a passion for adventure. After starting her career at Adelaide Hospital in 1907, she pursued her dream of exploring the world as a ship’s stewardess, traveling to Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean. On one voyage, Evelyn met Dr. William James, a White Star Line physician. The two quickly bonded and were thrilled to be assigned to the RMS Titanic in 1912. However, a last-minute roster change removed Dr. James from the ship—a twist of fate that saved his life. Discover the story of Evelyn, a survivor, adventurer, and part of a love story shaped by history’s most infamous voyage.
The All Blacks
Have you ever wondered if anyone looks up to you? And if they do, what lessons or values can they learn from your life? The All Blacks New Zealand rugby team has created an incredible legacy that their nation looks up to and is proud of. Their determination, strength and unity as a team have led to innumerable victories and worldwide acclaim. The All Blacks can teach us what it means to be great, to pursue and work hard for your goals and to develop a reputation that matters and brings meaning to the people around you.
Overcoming Addictions – with Gary Kent and Dr. Neil Nedley
Addiction is an intense craving for something that you know is bad for you, but you can’t seem to stop – somehow, this thing has gotten a hold of you without you realising it, and now it has you firmly in its grasp. We long for that state of euphoria and pleasure, so we keep coming back for more, only to discover that the more we indulge, the less fulfilled we feel! If you are searching for the keys to lasting happiness and freedom from addiction, join us this Sunday at 8:25 am on Channel 9 Gem to discuss the science behind addictions and discover important secrets that can set you free!
The Bravery of ‘Bull’ Allen
This program tells the lesser-known story of Corporal Leslie ‘Bull’ Allen, raised in an orphanage in Ballarat located in regional Victoria. He became a courageous and complex war hero. In World War II, ‘Bull’ Allen was a stretcher bearer in the Australian Army. His photo was famously captured during the battle of Mt Tambu, New Guinea, where Bull repeatedly ran into heavy enemy fire to carry out more than a dozen wounded men. His bravery made him a decorated war hero, and his image still hangs proudly in the Australian War Memorial. Bull’s story displays immense heroism and shows the devastating and long-lasting effects war can have on humans. A lot can be learned from this inspiring war hero, both during his time at war and especially after.
