The Nigerian Islamist group Boko Haram captured the northeastern town of Bama, about 72 kilometers (45 miles) from the capital of Borno state, Maiduguri, a senator representing the region said.

After a battle lasting several hours, “Boko Haram has taken Bama town and the soldiers have gone away,” Ahmed Zanna, who represents the Borno Central region, said today by phone from the Nigerian capital, Abuja. “Lots of youths have been killed by the insurgents; I even lost two of my family members from the attacks.”

The armed forces of Africa’s largest economy and local vigilantes who have mobilized to fight Boko Haram said the town hasn’t entirely fallen.

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In a first for the Anglican Diocese of Rockhampton, the consecration of new Bishop David Robinson will be held at St Paul’s Cathedral tomorrow.

Previously, the new bishop was either already consecrated or the consecration took place in Brisbane.

People are travelling from all over the diocese to witness the historic occasion, including as far afield as Winton.

The diocese spreads from Agnes Water in the south, to the Northern Territory border in the west, and just south of Carmila in the north.

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Almighty God, we remember before thee this day the blessed martyrs of New Guinea, who, following the example of their Savior, laid down their lives for their friends; and we pray thee that we, who honor their memory, may imitate their loyalty and faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Almighty God, who in Christ Jesus hast fulfilled to the sons of men thy ancient word of promise: Grant us grace to lay hold upon that promise by a living faith, that we may receive thy gift of righteousness, and at the last may enter upon our eternal inheritance; through the merits of the same thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

–Frank Colquhoun

O LORD, I love the habitation of thy house, and the place where thy glory dwells.

–Psalm 26:8