This year marks 40 years since the landmark Faith in the City report was published in 1985.
Together Liverpool is delivering an anniversary project across the Liverpool City Region, in partnership with Churches Together in the Merseyside Region (CTMR).
We’re gathering stories of faith-led action to help shape a new Vision for the City manifesto – reflecting on the past and exploring hopes for the future.
Explore the sections below to find out more
What was the Faith in the City report?
The Faith in the City report was published in 1985 by the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Commission on Urban Priority Areas. It highlighted the urgent needs of people living in inner-city communities and called on both the Church and the Government to take action. The report was a landmark moment, recognising the role of faith in tackling poverty and inequality.
Why is the anniversary being marked in 2025?
Marking the 40-year legacy of Faith in the City is an opportunity for reflection and renewal. It’s a chance to celebrate the report’s impact, highlight stories of change, and acknowledge how faith-led social action has supported communities over generations. It’s also a call to action to address ongoing needs and build stronger partnerships with civic leaders.
40th anniversary year themes
We are exploring three themes as part of our Faith in the City 40th anniversary work:
- Charity to Solidarity Exploring how faith-based social action has evolved into deeper partnerships with communities.
- What Difference Does Faith Make? Reflecting on the role of faith in inspiring action across diverse communities.
- How Can Faith Communities Engage with Civic Leaders? Advocating for collaborative, sustainable support models with government and public bodies.
Marking the legacy
Through stories, events, and reflections, we plan to honour voices from the original report and highlight the many unsung heroes involved in faith-led social action. We hope to include diverse perspectives from those who were less visible in 1985. Alongside this, we aim to explore everyday acts of kindness and connect past achievements with future possibilities.
Faith in the City 40th anniversary events in 2025 include:
- Micah Lecture at Liverpool Cathedral (June 2025)
- Social Action Network Conference hosted by the Archdiocese of Liverpool (July 2025)
- Faith in the City 40th anniversary celebration (November 2025)
Vision for the City manifesto
This anniversary is not just about looking back, it’s about moving forward. One of the key ways we’ll do that is by creating the Vision for the City manifesto. The stories and reflections we gather will help shape this manifesto and highlight both progress and the gaps that remain.
The Vision for the City manifesto will present a clear picture to civic leaders and faith communities, calling for meaningful, lasting change. We’ll build on the legacy of Faith in the City by asking questions like: “What more can be done?”, “What can be done differently?”, and “How can we make sure no one is left behind?”
By sharing the stories of those still fighting for justice today, the manifesto will honour the past while addressing the challenges we continue to face.
How can I get involved?
Share your story – whether you’re a faith leader, volunteer, or community member. Your voice can shape the Vision for the City and help inspire others. Get in touch with our Faith in the City Project Lead Development officer Fran D’Arcy and be part of building a fairer, more compassionate future.
The Faith in the City 40th anniversary marks a milestone in recognising the vital role faith communities have played in addressing social challenges over the past forty years.
By capturing stories and experiences from across the region, we aim to highlights how faith-inspired action continues to build hope, resilience, and stronger connections.
“Faith in the City remains a powerful call to action for churches and communities to work for justice and solidarity. This anniversary is a unique opportunity to reflect on its legacy and engage a diverse range of voices – faith groups, volunteers, and local faith leaders – in shaping a vision for the future.
“We want to hear your stories and perspectives, highlighting the breadth of social action taking place across our communities. Together, we hope to inspire a renewed commitment to social justice, solidarity, and collective action as we shape a better future.”
Fran D’Arcy – Faith in the City Lead Development Officer (Together Liverpool & CTMR)