Church celebrates 150 years of callings to ordained ministry

A Wolverhampton church is celebrating its 150th anniversary and long run of producing large numbers of clergy.

To help mark the occasion, the present vicar is looking for information about the many members of the congregation who have gone on to become church leaders.

The Rev Jeremy Oakley, vicar of Penn Fields, says: “I wouldn’t describe St Philip’s Church as a 'vicar factory' but this church has a long history of its members being called into the ordained ministry, including six people since I arrived here in 2002.

"We want to make contact with those church leaders who originated as members of our congregation and build up a better understanding of our history.”

A celebratory festival is planned for 10 to the 12 July to coincide with the 150th anniversary, including a history exhibition and special services.

Rev Oakley is looking to gather as much information as possible about the church and its people for the history exhibition, which will focus on the church and the community it has served for the last 150 years.

He is appealing for anyone with information on events, people, and the life and times of the parish to get in touch, particularly those who have had a connection with St Philip's but have now moved away.

"It would be good to have your reflections on your time here with us in Penn Fields," he said.

Anyone who previously attended the church, served there or were in any way affected by the ministry expressed at St Philip's is asked to contact them on 01902 341943 or email to office@pennfieldsparish.co.uk.