Held at St Michael and All Angels Church and attended by the Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Dr Derrick Anderson CBE and the Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Anthony Harris, the service offered time and space for remembrance, reflection and gratitude.
Reverend Alison Morris, Vicar at St Michael’s, led the service which featured readings by Nasar Iqbal (Black Country Innovate) and Pastor Monica Anderson (Walsall Faith Forum), performances from Trudia Ward, Huntley Mitchel and Pelsall Ladies Choir, as well as reflections from several faith and community leaders and representatives, creating an inclusive environment of reflection for all.
Dr A Kuravi, Clinical Director for Theatres, Anaesthetics and Critical Care at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust shared reflections on the journey through COVID-19. Councillor Garry Perry, Leader of Walsall Council, along with Jan Davies and Sue Evans from Walsall Community Network paid tribute to the voluntary and community sector for their contributions during the pandemic.
The Lord Lieutenant and Mayor of Walsall led a symbolic act of candle lighting to remember loved ones lost during the pandemic. This was accompanied by a performance from Councillor Keir Pedley and Councillor Edward Lee.
Inter-faith also played a significant role in the service, with the Chaplaincy Team from Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust leading a time of prayer and reflection, followed by closing remarks from Reverend Linford Davis, Head of Spiritual, Pastoral and Religious Care at the Trust.
Attendees were given daffodils, symbolising hope, renewal, new beginnings and joy.
“ I want to take the opportunity to thank everyone who joined us in Pelsall on Sunday. The gathering was not only a solemn reflection on the lives we have lost, but also a powerful testament to the love, strength and unity within our community.
Through poignant words, shared moments of silence and the daffodil as the symbol of hope, we honoured those no longer with us, while embracing the spirit of hope that carries us forward.
As we mark five years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic we remember, reflect and give thanks. “
Councillor Garry Perry
Leader of Walsall Council