Christians across the Diocese are being urged to become organ donors as part of their giving.
Pioneering work to promote death-confident congregations has stimulated conversation on the matter through initiatives like Grave Talk, where people discuss death and dying in a safe space in their local church.
David Primose, Diocesan Director of Transforming Communities, said: What if the church saw blood and organ donation as part of its giving? It is as part of Christian stewardship, and reflecting our commitment to practicing generosity, that we approach this sensitive and complex topic.
When Jill Saward died in January aged 51 her husband Gavin Drake was comforted by the fact that life would come from her death. There was no question in my mind about organ donation. When the doctor told me that there was no hope that my beautiful wife Jilly would recover from a massive stroke, it was one of the first things that crossed my mind.
I am devastated that Jilly is no longer here; but the letter from the transplant team telling me that two men in their 40s my age had received life-changing kidney transplants, bought a moment of joy. I dont know who they are; but I pray for their continued recovery.
Black and ethnic minority (BAME) communities particularly need donors. Dr Satya Sharma, a retired Hindu GP who recently spoke at St Philip Church, West Bromwich, said: The need for donation is about three times higher in BAME communities but registered donors are less than one per cent. BAME communities have to wait 12 months longer for donation due to lack of organs. The chances of acceptance of organs are slightly higher if these are from same ethnic background.
Dr Sharon Hiley, from St Marys and All Saints in Bradley, added: As a GP I see the need for donation as I come across patients with various forms of organ failure. For a Christian the decision to donate is a positive way of helping those in need and a way of following Jesus example of sacrifice, giving our bodies so that others may continue to live.
David Primrose said: Registering as a donor can be done at the click of a button but its key that people considering this discuss it with other family members.
Register at www.organdonation.nhs.uk or visit www.fleshandblood.org for more info.
Listen to David talking to the Church of England's national media team about Dying Matters Awareness Week:
Photos courtesy: Kimberley Hill Photography / CLODLOG.com / Geoff Ward Film & Photography