134. Clergy Support Trust Service, 21 May 2019

This service is held at St Pauls Cathedral and is now in its 365^th year since inception. It is a wonderful coming together of the Livery, Civic London and the Clergy to give thanks for the work of the Clergy Support Trust (previously known as the ‘Sons and Friends of the Clergy’) in supporting Anglican clergy and their families facing hardship or other difficulties. It always boasts some stunning music and choristry and as Master I was proud to represent to Company this year and was joined by the Mistress in some beautiful May sunshine.

Most of the Livery Masters were in attendance and we robed in the Chapel before being briefed as to the processional requirements. Suitable dressed we made our way down the aisle to our places under the Great Dome, strictly in order of precedence. It was wonderful to see so many Livery Companies represented and it is one of the few occasions in the year when we do so. Very impressive.

Whilst waiting for the Lord Mayor and the senior clergy we were treated to some fantastic organ recitals by the Cathedral Sub-Organist, William Fox. And then a fanfare sounded and the massed choirs of St Pauls, Canterbury and Coventry Cathedrals sang a most moving anthem as they jointly processed to the dais. The Lord Mayor was joined by the Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally and the Dean of St Pauls, the Very Revd Dr David Ison (who led the service) and the Dean of Gloucester Cathedral, the Very Revd Stephen Lake (who gave the Sermon) together with other senior London clergy who all took their places under the Dome.

A rousing and upbeat service followed with wonderful hymns and some fantastic choral works by the three choirs; first individually but all joining together as a finale under the careful eye of the Director of Music at St Pauls, Andrew Carwood supported by Organist and Assistant Director Simon Johnson. It was some of the best music I have ever heard in this great Cathedral and was truly memorable. What a privilege to be there!   

During the service we heard a number of testimonials from members of the clergy who had been recipients of support by the Trust, all of whom were very grateful for their assistance at difficult times in their lives. This theme was picked up by the Dean of Gloucester in his sermon in which he thanked all those who contribute to the Trust and gave further examples of the enormous range of benefits it provides. An extremely worthwhile charity helping those in the clergy who in turn help us all.

And then it was time to recess out again into the London street-scene with the organ ringing in our ears and the bells in full cry. Amazing!

Thanks must go to all those who made the service so special but most of all to the Clergy Support Trust themselves and for all their fine work. May it continue to support those in need for another 365 years!