Submitted by Val Hiscock on
The Service of Investiture of the Grand Priory of England and Wales was held on Saturday 30th April 2022 at the splendid St Paul’s Church, Knightsbridge, London, by permission of the vicar, The Revd Canon Alan Gyle SChLJ. At 11.00am prompt, the procession entered the Church to the rousing organ voluntary ‘Introduction- Choral’ from Suite Gothique, Op. 25 composed by Léon Boëllmann.
With a congregation of over 100 people in attendance, the service was led by the Chaplain-General The Revd Canon Andrew Stevens SChLJ and the Preacher was The Rt Revd Monsignor Keith Newton PA - Ordinary of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham, who delivered a thought provoking sermon. The Investing Officer was The Grand Prior of England and Wales, The Most Honourable the Marquis of Lothian PC, GCLJ, QC, DL assisted by The Bailiff His Excellency, the Chevalier Charles Holloway GCLJ, KMLJ.
Music was provided by The St Lazarus Singers led by Director of Music: Edward Dobson OLJ accompanied by the Organist: Dr Adam Mathias MA, PhD, FRCO. The choral music in the service was delightful and included the Motet 'Oculi omnium’ - Words: Psalm 145:15 by Charles Wood.
This was a splendid occasion where members and friends of the Order of Lazarus could come together and worship. A number of postulants were invested, and well deserved promotions and awards were presented. It was a particular pleasure to welcome the Lord Mayor of London, His Excellency Alderman Vincent Keaveny GCLJ, and the Lady Mayoress, Amanda Keaveny CMLJ.
The Investiture was followed by a wonderful banquet at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, concluding a memorable day for the Grand Priory of England and Wales.
Atavis et Armis!