hosted by The Public Square Group

Terry Drummond and Joe Forde in discussion with Bishop Rob Wickham

On Zoom, 23rd February 2026 at 3pm UTC – if you are not already on the PSG mailing list, please register and obtain a Zoom link by emailing bryant@cix.co.uk


The publication of Faith in the City (FiC) in December 1985 is being marked by a General Synod discussion on February 12th. A briefing paper with the above title is available: GS 2417.

The aim of the PSG discussion on the 23rd February is to consider the potential issues raised by the anniversary; we will be joined by Bishop Rob Wickham, the CEO of the Church Urban Fund, to assist in stimulating our conversation.

Among the key issues that we might discuss are:

Do we need to revisit the findings of FiC in the context of today’s Church and society?

How can we stimulate a discussion in Modern Church and wider on issues of poverty in contemporary society? (See book review at http://thepublicsquaregroup.uk/ by Joe Forde of Chris Shannahan’s new book as context for this discussion.)

What are the key theological themes that we need to address, and key writers that we should consult?

Is there a need for a ‘return’ to a more incarnational theological approach to advancing social justice?

What are the key social issues for today’s Church to address in the context of urban theology and action.

A briefing paper by +Rob for the General Synod discussion will be circulated before the meeting.

Timetable February 23rd. 3pm -5pm.

Introductory statement by +Rob
Introductory statement by Dr. Joe Forde

Followed by discussion.