Hello Everyone 😊

My name is Revd Claire, and I am the new vicar (Rector) for St Peter’s in Pedmore and St Andrew’s in Wollescote. I was ordained in 2023 and have been Assistant Curate (Trainee Vicar) at St Mary’s, Oldswinford in Stourbridge. I have lived most of my life in Gornal, Dudley, working for Cadbury in various roles for 23 years. I am married to Paul and have two children, Amelia who is 18, and Albert who is 14. I often share that my testimony comes in 3 parts: My fairy tale from birth to 30-years-old, life changing drama from when I was aged 30-40 and finally my calling at 39 years old.

After supporting my husband, Paul through horrific cancer, our journey of faith began when our son, Albert, was born very poorly. He was our miracle after being told we couldn’t have any more children. Albert was born critically ill, quickly put in an incubator, and transported by ambulance to Birmingham Children’s hospital. During these months, we all felt completely hopeless, and without even realising it, our faith was ignited. Albert was christened/baptised at our local church, St Andrew’s on The Straits in Gornal, and the congregation were a huge support.

Our faith exploded when Paul and I were confirmed; I launched Singing Angels; a singing group in Gornal and Sedgley; hosted home groups; led readings and intercessions; became an altar server; and trained as an Authorised Lay Minister. At this time, I felt strongly called by God to be and do even more, and after lots of discernment, I was sponsored to train for ordination. I have realised more and more how God has been preparing me for this all my life. I know Jesus has walked and even carried me through so much in my life, but it was in those early moments with Albert that I first believed. I finally acknowledged God’s existence, and my heart was opened to the glory and love of God.

Up to this point in my life, I have only been a Christian for 13 years, finding my faith at age 33. Alongside my ministry here I have recently been accepted (following very intense selection) as an Army Padre (Captain Cox), despite me always hating all types of physical exercise – God works in mysterious ways!! I am looking forward to learning all about the community of Pedmore and Wollescote; exploring; and taking the needs of the people; to the church. I have a passion for interfaith, and ecumenical work, and I truly believe I am here to serve, I’m here to wash feet. For me, the best news is we don’t have to earn God’s love, it is available to everyone, nothing we have done in the past can separate us from God. As Baby says to her Dad in dirty dancing; ‘there are a lot of things about me that aren’t what you thought. But if you love me, you have to love all the things about me.’ And God does, he forgives, he heals. Contact me anytime on clairecoxcofe@gmail.com and 07355 374996.

The book sale this week was a resunding success! Lots of books were sold and there was lots of excitement when books were being chosen.

School council organised the sale and they raised

💷 £141.00!

This is being split equally between their 3 chosen charities:

Mary Stevens Hospice

MS Society

Cancer Research

Dudley Parent and Carer Forum are hosting an event in the Easter holidays to gather young peoples’ views about education and services in Dudley. You can find out more information on the link below:

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5 Ways to Wellbeing Workshop. Held at Stourbridge Family Hub. Details on the link below:

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