Anne writes: Working at "the World's Local Bank"

I was pleased to be offered the opportunity recently to talk about being a Christian at work.  This is a brief summary of what I said:

I've worked for HSBC since leaving university, specialising in Project Management.  My present project relates to the development of the computer system which holds the personnel records for the UK and across the Group.

Although an organisation like HSBC would seem to epitomize globalism and capitalism, there are 3 good reasons why I have remained:

• to be a small force for good.

• because HSBC plays an important role in community and environmental affairs.  It also encourages staff to participate in these activities in work time.  Last year I was reading partner in a school in Tower Hamlets, a very deprived area, and this year I am involved in a Group-wide project to aid homeless children.

• Our new Group Chairman, Stephen Green, is a deacon in the Church of England.

I am not an 'evangelist' at work but neither am I shy about being a Christian.  I discuss church matters regularly with my colleagues, particularly when I need an outside view on a a difficult Building and Maintenance issue.

With regard to behaviour at work, I try and reflect a Christian lifestyle in small ways.  I do enjoy going to lunch with friends and my team but always set an example by having just one small glass of wine.  I also try to curb use of colourful expressions and my natural inclination to be just a bit impatient.

Recently I had a large challenge to face when someone asked me to stand as a witness against a very senior person in a case of bullying.  As I was in a 'no win' situation and did not feel I could refuse, I spent the 20 minutes before the meeting praying in a quiet place away from the office about what and how much to say. In the end I just spoke honestly and as fairly as I could.

Prayer is my main link between church and other parts of my life and I use my Blackberry to visit 'Sacred Space' (www.sacredspace.ie) each morning on the train.  My membership of a Prayer Triplet is probably the most significant aspect of my prayer life.  We meet regularly to discuss and consider personal issues and to pray about them and for the church.

I know that if I was in difficulties, there would be people and resources at church to turn to and overall I consider that membership of Christ Church underpins my everyday life.