93. Inter-Livery Service of Lessons and Carols, St Martin-within-Ludgate, 13 December 2023


The Stationers’ Company, more correctly the Stationers and Newspaper Makers Company, invited Livery Companies to join them at their traditional annual service in the Guild Church of St Martin-within-Ludgate.  The Rev’d Canon James Milne, the Precentor of St Paul’s Cathedral, welcomed us and gave us a thoughtful reflection on Christmas during the service.   The readings were by representatives of Livery Companies including the Stationers, Makers of Playing Cards, Furniture Makers, Management Consultants, Water Conservators and Framework Knitters.  It is obviously an asset of Livery Company Masters that they ensure that everyone in the church hears the readings. (Spot which Master and Consort we shared a joke with after the service).

With members of the Stationers’ Company, we retired for lunch in their adjacent hall, built between 1670 and 1673.  It is very impressive with dark wood and magnificent stained glass windows.  A long case clock in the Stock Room fascinated me, with a self-compensating pendulum incorporating a large container of mercury.

The welcome from the Stationers’ Company and the fellowship with representatives from many livery companies made for a super occasion.  Our grateful thanks to Tony Mash, Master of the Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers.


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