A community service of prayer and reflection will be held at St Thomas’ Church in Stourbridge to honour those affected by the devastating August wildfires and to thank the emergency responders who tackled them.
The gathering, to be led by the Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick, is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, and will offer a space for reflection, gratitude, and support for all those impacted by the fires as well as those who responded.
Bishop’s personal experience of the fires
Bishop Gorick, who was himself among those evacuated during the incident, said: “I was amongst several hundred evacuated in the face of the fire. Many others lost their home and everything in it.”
He added: “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.”
Service details and attendees
The service will also recognise the efforts of firefighters, emergency services, council workers, and volunteers. 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. All members of the community are welcome to attend.
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.
