A community service will be held to honour those affected by recent wildfires and to thank emergency responders.
The Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick, will lead the gathering at St Thomas’ Church in Stourbridge on Sunday, October 18, following the devastating August wildfires.
It aims to offer a space for reflection, gratitude, and support for those impacted by the fires and those who responded.
Bishop Gorick said: "I was amongst several hundred evacuated in the face of the fire.
"Many others lost their home and everything in it.
"I’m very aware of how much the community has been impacted by what happened and I hope this will be a chance to gather and support one another.
"It is also an opportunity to give thanks for the many people who have made a difference both at the time of the fires and afterwards.
"I do hope that people will come along and join us."
The service will also recognise the efforts of firefighters, emergency services, council workers, and volunteers.
Sam Setchell, a spokesperson for the Diocese of Worcester said: "We’d love anyone affected by the fires in Stourbridge to feel able come along to the service as well as those who might not have been directly affected, but who would like to pray and reflect together.
"People of all faiths and none are welcome."
"The impact of the fires has been huge in all kinds of ways, and the service is an opportunity to gather together to continue to offer support to one another as well as give thanks to the emergency services and the volunteers who offered such a tremendous response at the time."
"There was a great sense of community at the time of the fire, and this is a chance to bring together people’s memories and feelings. We’ll hear from a few of those who have been affected, including someone who has lost their home as well as the Head of the Fire Service."
Attendees will include Deputy Lord Lieutenant Nick Venning, the Chief Officer and members of the West Midlands Fire Service, and the Mayor of Dudley.
The event will be jointly led by Bishop Martin and the Revd Andrew Sillis, Vicar of St Thomas’ Church.
The service will begin at 7pm and will be followed by an opportunity for informal conversation over tea.
St Thomas’ Church is located on Market Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1AG.
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