The first week of November, and the start of a week building
towards two major events in the City Livery calendar – The Lord Mayor’s Show,
and Remembrance Sunday.
This morning, on a suitably damp and chilly November morning,
Judy and I travelled into the City to St Pauls Cathedral to represent the
Company at the poignant Opening of the Garden of Remembrance Ceremony organised
by The Royal British Legion.
It was cold enough for the Band of The Welsh Guards to be in
their grey winter coats- grey coats for a grey morning. It was cold enough for
the damp chill to creep through the soles of ones shoes as we stood on the
grass. The Service, attended by the Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs, and other dignitaries
was wistful and moving. Following the Last Post, and the Two Minutes Silence,
The Livery Movement planted its crosses, six Masters at a time in order of
seniority, slowly and solemnly walking forward, and planting their crosses, and
then filing off to the right.
A rousing rendition of the National Anthem brought the
Service to a close, and we all dispersed into the busy bustle of the City of
London, taking quietly with us our thoughts and reflections on this very
special Service to Remember Together.
Later on as dusk gathered, I travelled down from Islington
again into the City to attend A Service of Thanksgiving for the Lord Mayor’s
Year in Office. This took place at St Stephen Walbrook. This beautiful domed Wren church was full, with Masters of all the Livery Companies in attendance. The acoustics of this intimate round church are truly perfect, and the combined host of the Livery sang its heart out, accompanied by a small choir of superb accomplishment. It was a truly uplifting experience to be able to participate in such a Service!
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