The City New Year Service is an important marker of the beginning of the year, attended this year by the Sheriffs, Ward Aldermen and the Governor of the Bank of England, as well as many Masters and Clerks of the 110 Livery companies. It takes place annually in the Church of St. Michael Cornhill, which is known to have been in existence before the Norman Conquest. During the reign of King Henry VII (1485-1509), patronage was transferred to the Drapers’ Company, and the Church, with the exception of the tower, was completely destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666. The present Church was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren between 1669 and 1672.

The church was packed and the service uplifting, particularly the anthem “Gloria in Excelsis Deo” by Thomas Weelkes. After lessons read by the Aldermanic Sheriff and the Governor of the Bank of England, the sermon given by Mr Simon Pilcher, the Chief Executive Officer of USS Financial Management. In a fascinating and thoughtful address, he considered the modern day relevance and parallels of the Holy birth, and shone a moral and spiritual light on the principle of investment.

After the service, the Drapers’ Company kindly organised a reception and buffet lunch for over 200 churchgoers at nearby Drapers’ Hall. It was a very convivial occasion in spectacular surroundings. So large is the hall, it is still possible to find a quiet spot when needed!

The Company will be returning here later this year for our Annual Banquet on Thursday 11 May, and the Mistress and I are looking forward to this very much.