Wolverhampton's annual Civic Service took place at St Peter's Church this year with several significant changes designed to make the occasion more accessible and inclusive.
Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Paul Singh and fellow councillors processed from the Civic Centre to the church to affirm their duty to the city and its communities. This year's service centred on the Mayor's theme for the year: "Through Sport We Grow".
New Format and Timing
One of the most significant changes was moving the service from its traditional Sunday morning slot to a weekday evening. Organisers said the change was intended to enable more people to attend and take part in the civic occasion.
Charity Representatives and Faith Community Involvement
Representatives from the Mayor's four chosen charities — Wolverhampton Boxing Club, Wolverhampton Judo Club, Friends of Di's Kitchen and Inspire You — attended and addressed the congregation, sharing details of their work and local impact.
Members from different faith communities also contributed to the service. Through the support of Interfaith Wolverhampton, representatives from a range of faith traditions offered prayers from their own beliefs, reflecting the city's diversity.
Music and Youth Participation
Music featured prominently throughout the evening. The St Peter's Choir performed traditional contributions, while the United Churches Gospel Choir performed at a Civic Service for the first time, with two specially selected songs.
City Youth Councillor Shyarna Reid, aged 16, read the commitment made by the Mayor and councillors. Her participation highlighted the role young people play in civic life.
Mayor's Response
Speaking after the service, Mayor Councillor Singh said: "The Civic Service is a traditional service where the new Mayor and councillors gather in church to affirm their duty to the city and its residents, however we wanted to introduce some new elements this year to keep it fresh and relevant to as many people as possible."
He praised the United Churches Gospel Choir for bringing "energy" and "a new dimension to things" and thanked Shyarna Reid for reading the vows. He also thanked St Peter's Church and the new rector Father Jeremy Dussek for working closely with the Mayoral team to deliver "a service which was energised and inclusive".