Westminster Abbey was the location for one of the most important events in Westminster City Council’s calendar on Sunday as it hosted the Civic Service marking the appointment of the city's new Lord Mayor.
Only months after the coronation of King Charles III, the Abbey was at the centre of Westminster’s gaze once more. One of London’s most recognisable landmarks opened its doors to residents, the community, friends and family of the Lord Mayor in the historic ceremony.
To recognise the links between the Council and Abbey, the honorary role of Deputy High Steward is given to the Lord Mayor of Westminster by the Dean of Westminster and Chapter in an annual Civic Service dating back to 1935.
With Consorts by her side, the Lord Mayor was greeted at the Great West Door by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE, Dean of Westminster. Included in the procession was the Lord Mayor’s Chaplain, Father Michael Jarmulowicz. Fr Michael is parish priest of the RC Parishes of Our Lady Of Lourdes, Maida Hill and Our Lady of Sorrows, Paddington.
Morning prayers, also known as matins, were sung before the Lord Mayor read from the Book of Matthew and Leader of Westminster City Council, Cllr Adam Hug, spoke about the importance of community in his reading from the Old Testament. This was followed by the sermon given by Father Michael Jarmulowicz with prayers led by The Reverend Robert Latham, Minor Canon and Sacrist and music sung by the Choir of Westminster Abbey.
After the service, councillors, cadets from the RAF, Army, London Fire Brigade and St John Ambulance and family joined the Lord Mayor for a reception in the grounds of Westminster Abbey with the bells of the Abbey ringing in the background.
The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of Westminster, Cllr Patricia McAllister, said:
On such a historic day, it was a privilege to to share the moment with my family, friends, Councillors, and the wider community.”
“Although it is one of my lesser-known responsibilities, it is a great honour and a privilege to hold the position of Deputy High Steward of Westminster.
“This city has been my home for over 50 years but events like this serve as a reminder of how special Westminster truly is.”
Published: 5 July 2023