As the Company’s adopted church, St Mary-at-Hill was the
venue for this important service in the tradition of the Water Conservators.
The service has two key function; the first to commemorate the life of Sir Hugh
Myddelton who was instrumental in constructing the New River in the early 17th
Century and secondly, to re-dedicate the livery to the service of the City and
to God. In keeping with the solemnity of the service it was a great honour that
the Company’s Chaplin (and Honorary Freeman – see Blog No 67) the Rev’d Rose
Hudson-Wilkin was able to lead the proceedings.
The service was well attended by members of the Company
including all the Wardens, the Deputy Master, past Masters, the Clerk, two
Bailiffs, the Beadle and many other Court Assistants all of whom were robed and
badged. It was a very proud moment to be able to lead the Company as we
processed into the church.
After the National Anthem, Bidding Prayer and Hymns I had
the privilege of reading the Lesson (Number 20, vs 1-11) before the Chaplain gave
the Address. In it she urged all members of the Company to call on God when
needed and to trust in His word.
There then followed the re-dedication of the Company Cross
which stood on the alter, before all the members of the Company stated a new
their allegiance to the Sovereign and their pledge to the Livery. Very moving
indeed.
And then out onto the streets of London to process once more
in full regalia to our lunch destination at Trinity House.
A very important service and I was delighted by the good turn-out
from the Company. Thank you to the Chaplin for her inspiration and to the
Church Wardens and staff at St Mary-at-Hill for making us so welcome.
Photos shows Master and Wardens etc at the door of the
church and parading down Great Tower Street.
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