The hopes, fears and challenges for the future of our communities, countries and the world will be the theme of a new Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) conference taking place in Manchester on 17 March.

‘Brave New World? Faithful living in a time of change’ takes place at the Methodist Central Hall in Oldham Street and will also explore what it means to be a Christian in the midst of a changing world.

JPIT is a joint venture between the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church, the United Reformed Church and the Church of Scotland. The team works together on issues of justice and inequality, by influencing those in power and by energising local congregations.

The conference will bring together politicians, journalists, activists and people of faith to discuss the challenges facing our everchanging communities, nations and the world in worship, workshops and plenary sessions. 

The day will begin with Stella Creasy MP, from the Labour and Cooperative Party, and Peter Oborne, columnist at the Daily Mail and former chief political commentator of The Daily Telegraph.

As these two public figures with their differing political views converse about our changing world, they will invite delegates to engage with their vision for the challenges ahead.

The Christian and biblical approach to the question of a brave new world will be presented by Sally Foster-Fulton, Head of Christian Aid Scotland.

Delegates will also have the opportunity to explore specific issues in depth in a range of workshops addressing topics including intergenerational justice, responding to hate crime and the changing face of poverty. 

The conference will be drawn to a close by the Revd Lucy Berry, the United Reformed Church’s poet-minister, who will write and perform poetry reflecting on the day.

Rachel Lampard, JPIT Team Leader and Policy Adviser, said: ‘The aim of the conference is to consider how we might respond to the challenges and make the most of the opportunities presented by our changing times. Above all, we want to deepen our understanding of what it might mean to live faithfully in the world. How can we “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God” (Micah 6:8)?’

The event takes place between 10am and 4pm and tickets are free. More information and details on how to book can be found here.