At the kind invitation of Rev’d Rose Hudson-Wilkin (our
Company Chaplin) and the Billingsgate Market and Ward Club, the Mistress and I
attended the annual Fish Harvest Festival at St Mary-at-Hill on a very wet and
soggy Sunday morning. Despite the weather it was a most fascinating service
both in terms of symbolism and music!
St Mary-at-Hill is a fine Wren building (see picture and Blog
No 25) and of course our Company church. It is right opposite the old Billingsgate
Fish Market, the largest such market in the UK. Despite the active market now residing
in Canary Wharf, the old Billingsgate holds a special place for this part of
London. The clergy at St Mary-at-Hill have for hundreds of years provided ministry
and pastoral care to all those whose work was connected with the Market; a
tough life even today. The Fish Harvest Festival is the opportunity to give
thanks for the bountiful harvest of fish throughout the year but also to send
God Speed to all the fishermen who risk their lives in the pursuit of the industry.
On entering the church, a huge display of fish had been set
up (see picture) by some of the local porters in their white coats complete
with traditional hats (for carrying fish baskets). The sight (and smell) of all
this fish was astonishing and the porters took great pride in showing the vast
range of fish sold through the Market.
The service started with a fine choral introduction before a
small procession (including the fish porters) entered the church led by a
wonderful platter of fresh fish which was laid on the alter. The Rev’d Rose
then led the service with her usual flair and passion and gave a rousing sermon
of the need to “keep one’s faith” when in adversity. Especially true for
fishermen on the high seas.
The choir then performed a most memorable rendition of “They that go down to the sea in ships”
by Herbert Samsion which was beautifully performed. This was followed by the
traditional Billingsgate Market Prayer.
After the service light refreshments were offered and the
congregation had the opportunity of buying some of the fish on display (for a
‘good’ donation!) before any left-over fish were given to the local Seaman’s
Mission. The Rev’d Rose seemed to be doing a brisk trade!
A real privilege to be there and to experience the traditions
of the Market.
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