United Guilds Service

This uplifting annual Service originated in 1943, when at a meeting of the Twelve Great Companies it was decided to hold a service to lift spirits in the City following the Blitz in 1940-41.

The Service has now become an annual event in the presence of Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs and Court of Aldermen.  It is one of the few occasions when the livery companies and Guilds of the City all gather together and is one of the most colourful events of the City’s Year.

As always the Master, Senior Warden and Liverymen attending enjoyed a position in the Company pew in the nave. The Select Preacher this year was the new Bishop of London, the Right Reverend and Right Honorable Dame Sarah Mullally DBE and her theme reinforced the charitable aims of the City Companies.

Following the service Furniture Makers and their guests returned to Furniture Makers’ Hall where following a champagne reception an excellent lunch was enjoyed in good company and all agreed it had been a memorable event.