Faith Friendly Workplaces
Yesterday, I attended the Faith at Work Summit in London.
Organised by Dr. Brian J. Grim of the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation, it was fascinating to explore how UK businesses are advancing religious freedom for all by creating faith-and-belief-friendly workplaces.
I thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and making many new ones during the day’s networking sessions.
There were numerous personal takeaways, but one that stood out was the powerful reminder highlighted in the keynote address by Lord Wajid Khan, UK Minister of State for Faith, Communities and Resettlement, that there are “more commonalities than differences” and that deep “friendships across faiths” are not only possible but already flourishing.
Role Modeling
Much discussion centred on the increasing spiritual awareness among youth and young adults in today’s rising generation.
I was particularly inspired by the insights shared by a number of exceptional leaders from diverse organisations that take faith-friendly workplaces seriously.
The recurring mantra of enabling individuals “to bring their whole selves to work” resonated strongly with me, illustrating how inclusive workplaces help people truly thrive.
I have experienced that personally in my career, and know firsthand how faith friendly workplaces can help people to thrive.
Topics such as senior role modeling, multi-faith inclusion, supporting faith groups, and managing the message for sceptics were addressed and provided much food for thought.
Artificial Intelligence
I also had a meaningful conversation with Jeremy Peckham from the AI Faith & Civil Society Commission.
We spoke about the growing influence of AI in our workplaces and its implications for young people, our faith traditions, and even our Churches.
His reflections challenged me to consider how some of our God-given gifts, including creativity, conscience, and independent thought, can be dulled or even overtaken by AI if we’re not careful.
Jeremy’s warning that “the algorithms are intentionally designed to appeal to our vices” was a sobering insight and gave me and others much to reflect on.
Overall, the summit was uplifting, thought-provoking, and full of hope for the future.
I left with a deeper appreciation for the growing movement to integrate faith into the workplace, not as something separate or awkward, but as a source of strength, connection, and shared purpose in a diverse society.
The momentum is real, and I’m encouraged by what lies ahead.
What does a faith-friendly workplace look like to you?
