The Bishop of Sheffield’s Annual Lecture 2026

Artificial Intelligence and the Purpose of God

Speaker: Rev Dr Simon Cross

Simon Cross specialises in AI and technology for the Church of England, supporting Anglican bishops in the House of Lords on technology related regulation.  He also represents the Church of England at a consortium of civil society organisations concerned with risk, governance, and research into AI’s mixed consequences for the world.  A former airline pilot, Simon left aviation to complete a DPhil in ‘Scientific Perspectives on Divine Action’.  He is a permanent deacon in Oxford diocese.

On Monday 3 March, Simon will speak at the University of Sheffield, The Diamond, 32 Leavygreave Road, Sheffield, S3 7RD. After light refreshments from 7pm, the lecture will be downstairs in Lecture Room 7 from 7.30-9.00pm. This evening event is offered particularly for those who are not able to attend on Tuesday.

Tuesday morning will be a repeat of the Monday lecture, and however on Tuesday afternoon Rt Rev Dr Pete Wilcox, Bishop of Sheffield will give an exposition of Psalm 8, ‘What are human beings?’

This event is particularly for clergy and authorised/licensed lay ministers.
Others who are involved in church ministries are also very welcome.

Other related event

Tuesday 3 March, 10am – 3.45pm, at Sheffield Cathedral