By Ann Smith

To celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity members and friends of eight churches in the B45 postcode area of Birmingham joined together to worship and eat on Friday 19 January. 

Eight churches representing four denominations from south west Birmingham, Rednal, Longbridge, Rubery, Frankley, Cofton Hackett, Lickey and Barnt Green gathered together in the church hall of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour. 

Around 70 people attended.

Fr Srinu Bonthu welcomed everyone and the worship was led by Greg Hartigan from Our Lady’s church.  B45 Churches Together clergy joined hands to lead the final prayers and blessings.

There was a completely joyous atmosphere with comments such as “I have waited all my life to see churches really joining together to share the love of Jesus.” Also, “We need each other now more than ever” and “Oh how I have missed such gatherings because of covid restrictions.” 

Lots of people came forward with suggestions for further get togethers and sharing, such as a joint choir, picnic in the park with worship, joint retreat days, men’s groups. The positivity and joy in the room was palpable and at times very emotional.