TikTok vicar's services praised by MPs

Fosiya IsmailBBC News, West Midlands
David Sims/TikTok Vicar David SimsDavid Sims/TikTok
David Sims has over 16,000 followers on TikTok

The viral vicar who uses TikTok to connect to a younger congregation has been invited to a meeting with MPs for Christian TikTok creatives.

The TikTok vicar, real name David Sims, was invited by TikTok to discuss the impact of Christianity on the platform.

The round-table event took place next to the Houses of Parliament and included other well-known Christian content creators.

Mr Sims told BBC Radio WM TikTok had helped grow his congregation at St Thomas' church in Aldridge, Walsall.

David Sims David Sims congregation worshipping at churchDavid Sims
Mr Sims said the older people at church are "really supportive" of his TikTok career

Mr Sims said the event was a success with many MPs enjoying what they do.

He said: "All of the MPs were very supportive of what TikTok can do, both for the Christian faith and for community."

He mentioned how TikTok and social media often get a "bad rap" but it is possible to find "glimpses of goodness".

"We've seen people join our church through TikTok which is brilliant, and something that lots of the older people do is support [our cause] through prayer and giving bibles."

Offering prayers on TikTok is another tool the vicar employs. He said he often gets hundreds of prayer requests and ensures those requests are delivered.

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