Bio

James Croft is a writer, speaker, and Humanist chaplain exploring meaning, morality, wonder, community, and the art of being human.

His work asks how we might live deeply meaningful lives in a world shaped by rapid change, social fragmentation, and competing visions of what it means to flourish. Through storytelling, philosophy, public speaking, and community-building, he explores forms of secular life that are intellectually serious, emotionally alive, and open to awe.

In 2023 James was appointed University Chaplain and Lead Faith Advisor at the University of Sussex, becoming the first Humanist Lead Chaplain at a UK university. In this role he works with students and staff from many different religious and non-religious backgrounds, helping to foster belonging, reflection, ethical growth, and conversations about what gives life meaning.

Before moving to Sussex, James served as Senior Leader of the Ethical Society of St. Louis, one of the largest Humanist congregations in the world, where he developed gatherings, rituals, and public programmes exploring community, morality, beauty, and social change beyond traditional religion.

James studied at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and at Homerton College, Cambridge. His background in philosophy, education, and the arts continues to shape his interest in how stories, symbols, and aesthetic experiences influence human flourishing.

Originally from London, James now lives in Brighton with his husband Kolten and their chihuahua Ella.

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