National Service of Investiture 2021

Submitted by Val Hiscock on

The 2021 Service of Investiture of The Grand Priory of England and Wales was held on Saturday 16th October 2021 at the beautiful St Paul’s Church, Knightsbridge, London. At 11.00am prompt, the procession entered the Church to the rousing hymn 'All people that on earth do dwell'.

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 His Eminence, Archbishop Angaelos, Coptic Archbishop of London, 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. It was so good to have our Grand Prior in attendance.

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 included in the service was delightful and included the Motet 'The God of love my shepherd is' by Thomas Tallis with words by George Herbert. The service was held by permission of The Vicar, The Revd Canon Alan Gyle SChLJ.

It was a pleasure to see so many postulants being invested. Well deserved promotions and awards were presented and new Commanders and Chancellors appointed.

The Investiture was followed by a wonderful banquet at the Cavalry and Guards Club.

A splendid occasion where members and friends of the Order of Lazarus could finally come together to worship and celebrate, and a truly memorable day for the Grand Priory of England and Wales.