People from across the diocese have completed a course designed to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith.

The course, named the Bishop's Certificate, was a year-long commitment that aimed to help participants relate their faith to their own lives and communities.

The curriculum encompassed a wide range of topics, including the Christian faith and creeds, the Old and New Testaments, Pentecost and the Holy Spirit, discipleship, and interfaith relationships.

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In addition to the Bishop's Certificate, a select few also completed a course to become authorised lay ministers in leading worship.

The acting Bishop of Worcester and Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick, who presented the certificates, shared a passage from the book of Hebrews with the group.

He said: "Your journey as Christians is a marathon, not a sprint, and at times you will need to have perseverance.

"I pray that God will bless you in that journey, wherever it takes you."

Rosalie Bullock, a member of the Holy Trinity and St Matthew in Ronkswood, was one of the Bishop's Certificate recipients.

She said: "It was a wonderful course, much more than a usual Bible study group.

"It was an exploration of so many things linked to the Christian faith, including other religions."

Jane Fisher, who worships at Holy Trinity in Amblecote, said: "I would recommend doing the course to anyone – I looked forward to it each week and was very sad when it ended."

Penny Gordon, a churchwarden at St Mary's Church in Wick, also completed the Bishop's Certificate course.

She said: "It was hugely informative and interesting, and throughout the course, there was lots of laughter and shared ideas."

Jeremy Cox, from the Longdon and Berrow Benefices, finished the course to become an authorised lay worship leader.

He said: "I have been involved in church for a long time, and this seemed like a good opportunity to have some training and recognition for my role.

"It was a well-run course in a friendly environment, with the chance to chat to other people.

"I already lead family worship and informal evening services, and the course helped deepen my thinking when I am putting worship together.”