This debate, organised by the Baroness Warsi Foundation, in partnership with the Empowering Design Practices project, will explore the potential for places of worship to be shared, by different faith groups, by the wider community, and for mixed uses.

The connection between people and their place of worship, and between a place of worship and the wider community around it is layered with complex connotations, interpretations and feelings. Places of worship are fundamental to faith communities, providing a physical space to practice their faith and to come together. Bricks and mortar take on spiritual and faith values. For others, a place of worship may feel out of their reach or disconnected from their local community.

What happens when those places of worship become shared spaces?

Is the form, feeling and function of a building defined by the particular faith practiced there? How do different faith groups perceive other places of worship and can different faiths come together in shared buildings?

Can a faith building accommodate local community activities and services while maintaining its integrity and function as a place of worship?

This free debate will consider these questions starting with a series of provocations from a panel of speakers that bring a diverse range of experience and insights into the topic. Join in the conversation: this debate is open to anyone interested in exploring the future of places of worship and their place in our communities.

The debate will be chaired by Lord Alton of Liverpool.

Speakers:

Dr. Andrew Crompton, Head of the School of Architecture, University of Liverpool

Daniel Leon & Matthew Lloyd, two of the architects behind the tri-faith prayer space, the Friday, Saturday, Sunday project

The Archbishop of Liverpool, the Most Revd Malcolm McMahon OP

Sophia de Sousa, Empowering Design Practices project research team & Chief Executive, The Glass-House Community Led Design.

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This debate is part of the Baroness Warsi Foundation's UK-wide debate series - the first stage of their Modern Places of Worship project. Find out more here.

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Please note: At the debate we will be collecting data (including audio and photography) that will be used for educational and research purposes, including publication. If you would like more information on this, please get in touch with: The Baroness Warsi Foundation or Empowering Design Practices.