Submitted by Val Hiscock on
On Saturday 16th September 2023, King Offa Commandery visited Burton Lazars, Leicestershire, the site of the medieval Headquarters of the Order of St Lazarus in England.
Following a short presentation in the Village Hall to explain the importance of Burton Lazars to the Order by Chevalier John Bullock KLJ, an act of Commemoration, overlooking the site of our ancient headquarters, took place.
Chevalier David Waterton-Anderson KSG, KLJ, OMM OMLJ played a moving lament to unsung heroes, ‘Coronach - Hector the Hero’, followed by ‘Calon Lan’
Tea, delicious locally produced Stilton Cheese, Melton Mowbray Pork Pies and cakes were then enjoyed in the Village Hall.
Tea was followed by a splendid ‘Hymns of Praise’ Service in the beautiful Parish Church of Saint James, Burton Lazars by kind permission of Revd Dr Mary Barr and the Churchwardens. Revd Kevin Charles SChLJ officiated as Senior Chaplain.
A number of favourite Hymns were sung, chosen and introduced by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire - Mr Michael Kapur OBE, The High Sheriff of Leicestershire- Mrs Henrietta Chubb JP, The Mayor of Melton Mowbray - Councillor Mr Alan Hewson, The Chairman of Leicestershire County Council - Councillor Dr Kevin Feltham, Leicestershire County Councillor for Melton East - Councillor Mrs Pamela Posnett MBE and the Commander of King Offa - Chevalier Mario Rizzardi KCLJ, CMLJ. A hymn was also sung chosen by The Bailiff of the Grand Priory of England and Wales - Chevalier Charles Holloway GCLJ, KMLJ.
A very special afternoon in a historically significant location to the Order of St Lazarus.
