100. City New Year Service, 12 January 2024
The Lord
Mayor, City Sheriffs and Aldermen, City Leaders, Livery Masters, Consorts and
Clerks gathered for the Annual City New Year Service at St Michael’s Cornhill. “For over half a century, this service has
been the prime fixture for senior figures in civic and business spheres to
meet, to renew institutional links and to welcome the challenges and events of
the coming year.” It was packed and cosy. Eileen and I shared a pew with the Master,
Consort and Clerk of the Security Professionals. We were well protected!
The Lord
Mayor of London and the Governor of the Bank of England read the Lessons and
the Sermon was given by Sir Jeremy Cooke, a former judge in the High Court
who presided in the Pakistani
cricket spot-fixing trial. He reflected
on the current global catastrophes, wars and oppression, the impact of God and
faith and how we should respond. It was
a powerful message.
After the
service we all adjourned to a reception at Drapers’ Hall. It was a super occasion to catch up with
Masters and Clerks as we prepare for the new year ahead. We shared the recent discussions we had had
with the Lord Mayor on improving the outreach and diversity of the Livery. I
had a fascinating chat with a Barber-Surgeon who was a city investment manager
on the investment challenges facing the water industry at the moment. Eileen and I met the Bishop of London and the
Bishop of Ebbsfleet, Rob Munro, who is a “Flying Bishop” and supports over 150
evangelical parishes in the Church of England which do not accept the
ordination of women.
A welcoming
occasion with great fellowship, and our grateful thanks go to the Drapers’
Company for providing a magnificent lunch.
With my stomach full and brain spinning, we had an enjoyable evening
watching “Dear England” at the theatre.
It was very educational for a non-football expert.
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