THE new reverend of a Mill Hill church is set to host a series of thought provoking religious conversations with other religious leaders in the new year.

Canon Chris Chivers will host the candlelit conversations on Thursday nights from January 6 at the John Keble Church in Deans Lane, to mark its 75th anniversary.

The first meeting will be with Anjum Anwar MBE, the only Muslim to work on the staff of a cathedral in the world.

Then internationally-known writer and broadcaster Rabbi Lionel Blue OBE followed by Lord Griffiths of Burry Port, better known as the Methodist minister and broadcaster, Leslie Griffiths.

Canon Chivers, who came to the church from Blackburn Cathedral was named the North West’s Man of the Year for his dialogue work in his previous job.

He said: “At a time when the Big Society initiative is encouraging community activists to think out of the box, this initiative will showcase the best that faith can contribute to the debate.

“Talking to one another across perceived boundaries is vital since many believe that it’s the thing religious folk are least able to do.

“At the request of Rabbi Blue who says that it’s “his favourite service from any faith” we’re offering a beautiful, reflective Night Prayer to end each event with plainsong sung by the men of our choir.”

After the conversations, which are free to observe and start at 7.30pm, there will be drinks and a chance to talk to the participants.