God in the Public Square?
Last Wednesday, 170 parliamentarians from every corner of the UK gathered in Westminster for our National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast. Amid the early-morning bustle and quiet anticipation, one question humbly yet firmly united us all: “God in the public square?”
Professor John Lennox: A Call to Courageous Faith
The keynote address was delivered by Professor John Lennox, whose hallmark clarity and conviction have inspired countless audiences. He reminded us that faith is not a private hobby but a driving force for public good. Referencing historical precedents, he emphasized that Britain’s moral compass—rooted in Christian values—has shaped laws, education, and welfare.
“Where do we look for meaning, purpose, and truth?” he asked. His answer was unwavering: in a moral framework that transcends the shifting sands of public opinion. Professor Lennox urged parliamentarians not to shy away from drawing on this heritage. Instead, he encouraged using it constructively to inform debates on justice, equality, and common decency.
He poignantly observed that when the church remains silent, public institutions feel the void. But when Christians assertively yet graciously offer Biblical wisdom—on dignity, compassion, stewardship—society flourishes. He called this a necessary tension: being both faithful to the Gospel and respectful of democratic diversity.¹
Following the keynote, severl distinguished guests hosted panel discussions exploring mercy in action. Natalie Williams (Jubilee+ CEO) was honoured to joinTrussel UK. She spoke of mercy being shown to the suffering in societty, through the support of food banks, reminding the audience that hunger statistics represent real people—families choosing between heating or eating.
Faith, Policy, and the Way Forward
Throughout the morning, the recurring theme was clear: faith is neither irrelevant nor divisive—it can be unifying when expressed with humility, evidence, and empathy. The fusion of Professor Lennox’s theological insight with grounded experince from Christians showing mercy in different spheres of society painted a vivid portrait of a civic society that incorporates mercy in both principle and practice.
For Jubilee+ supporters, this breakfast reminds us that our faith isn’t confined to church buildings—it extends into every public conversation, every policy decision, and every act of kindness. Whether crafting legislation or volunteering at a local project, our convictions can—and should—be catalysts for dignity and hope.
As we reflect on “God in the public square,” let us ask ourselves:
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How can I speak truth with grace in my workplace or community?
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Where can I support practical mercy?
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In what spaces am I remaining silent when my voice could speak hope?
At its heart, the National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast wasn’t just an event—it was a vision. A call to bold but courteous public faith. A reminder that Christian compassion, when paired with thoughtful policy, can help build a fairer, kinder society.
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¹ Professor John Lennox’s full keynote address is available via Christians in Parliament: National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast 2025 Transcript
