Is Christianity good for society?
A panel discussion with Tim Farron MP, Bishop John Thomson, and Community Chaplain Lois Sparling
7.30–9pm, Thursday, 20th November 2025
St Andrew’s Church, Sedbergh
Our world feels increasingly unstable and divided. At the same time, our country faces new opportunities and challenges that affect every community — including ours. Does Christianity still have something vital to say? Join us for an evening with local Christians engaged in public service exploring how faith can shape our common life today.
Tim Farron has been the Liberal Democrat MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale since 2005. During that time, Tim has built a strong track record of being a visible and hard-working constituency MP who gets things done.
John Thomson served as Bishop of Selby from 2014 to 2024. He began ministry in Sheffield as a curate and youth chaplain, later teaching in South Africa before returning as a parish priest. From 2001 he was Director of Ministry in Sheffield until his consecration as bishop.
Having worked in publishing for almost 30 years, Lois Sparling moved to the Third Sector about 10 years ago. She has since then worked with and for people experiencing homelessness, addiction and poverty around Cumbria. At the moment, she has two different roles, one based in and around Cockermouth and one countywide, supporting churches and church people in community social action.