Submitted by Val Hiscock on
King Offa Commandery’s Annual Service of Celebration & Renewal of Knightly Vows was held at Barnby Gate Methodist Church, Newark-on-Trent on Saturday 5th July 2025.
The Commandery was honoured to receive the High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, Mr Edward Attenborough DL, along with Dame Mary Kenyon BEM DLJ OMLJ, the Grand Baillie of Scotland, accompanied by Chevalier Colin Russell KLJ CMLJ, the Secretary-General. A number of civic leaders from Nottinghamshire and several distinguished guests from London were present. The Order was represented by the Commanders of The Marches and of Cumbria.
The Preacher was the Revd Malcolm Lane JP, Hon Curate in the Parish of Abergavenny, who gave a truly inspiring sermon. The service was led by the Revd Susan Caddy AChLJ and the Revd David Bonny, Minister of the Church, who gave the final blessing.
The Organist was Elizabeth Harwood BA ARCT FRCCO. Chevalier Alan Howls KLJ gave a beautiful rendition of the Nunc Dimittis.
A wonderful celebratory banquet was held afterwards at the Saracens Head, Southwell, where a significant cheque was presented to Mr Denis Tully CMLJ, Chief Executive of Emmanuel House Homeless Support Centre.
A very special, glorious and happy day for the Order in the East Midlands of England.