The Warwickshire Gospel Festival & Awards is a vibrant annual event that brings together the community to honor those who have made significant contributions through their service and dedication. This event, comprising a Gospel Praise evening and an Awards evening, is designed to reward the hard work and courage of various organizations and individuals who play crucial roles in essential services, as well as those who champion freedom of speech, worship, and diversity in society.
A Vision of Righteousness and Hope
The inspiration for this event comes from a vision received in early 2017, where the heavens opened over Warwick Town and its environs, and a rain of crystal-clear waters descended from above. Angels were seen descending upon Warwick, symbolizing a divine blessing and a call to righteousness. This vision is encapsulated in the event’s guiding scripture from Isaiah 45:8:
“Drip down, O heavens, from above, And let the clouds pour down righteousness; Let the earth open up and salvation bear fruit, And righteousness spring up with it. I, the LORD, have created it.”
The Warwickshire Hero Award: Honoring Everyday Bravery
A highlight of the festival is the newly introduced Warwickshire Hero Award, aimed at recognizing the everyday acts of bravery by men and women serving in essential services. This award acknowledges the significant role these individuals play in our community, a role that was particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The award process involves a 12-week online voting period where the public can nominate and vote for their everyday heroes. The winner, announced at the Warwickshire Gospel Festival & Awards on Saturday, 14th September at the Bridge House Theatre, Warwick School, will receive an award plaque and a cash prize of £500 to £1000.
The Importance of the Warwickshire Hero Award
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical importance of essential service workers. This award aims to continue the spirit of appreciation we showed during the pandemic and to offer financial rewards and motivation beyond just applause. It also aims to shine a spotlight on the heroic work done by the men and women of the South Warwickshire NHS and bring this work to the attention of the broader public and residents of Warwickshire.
About The Redeemed Christian Church of God HGZ Warwick
The Redeemed Christian Church of God HGZ Warwick, a church in Warwick, is deeply involved in the community, providing a place of Christian worship and offering advocacy and material support for disadvantaged families. The church also assists new ethnic minority migrant workers, primarily in the healthcare sector, helping them settle into their new lives and integrate into the community.
Next Steps and Call for Partnership
To make this award initiative a success, the festival organizers seek partnerships with essential services. A briefing meeting is requested before 31st March 2024 to discuss potential collaborations. Essential service staff members will be invited to nominate colleagues who have gone above and beyond in their duties over the past 24 months. These nominations will be showcased on the Warwickshire Gospel Festival & Awards website, where the public can vote from 1st July to 8th September 2024. The staff member with the highest votes will be celebrated as the Warwickshire Hero Award winner.
The Warwickshire Gospel Festival & Awards is more than just an event; it is a celebration of courage, dedication, and community spirit. It serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions of our essential service workers and the importance of supporting and recognizing their efforts. Join us in honoring these everyday heroes and celebrating the blessings of righteousness and hope in Warwickshire.
