Church Service at St. Cross - October 2010

FAMILY CHURCH SERVICE

On the 31st October 2010 - All Saints Day - at the Church of the Hospital of St. Cross,Winchester, 180 Knights together with their families and friends gathered for the biannual family church service.The venue was the inspired choice of Mrs. Sonia Gulliver, wife of our Provincial Prior and despite some wet weather, what a superb one it proved to be. The Hospital of St. Cross is England's oldest continuing almshouse comprising of Medieval and Tudor buildings and a Norman Church. For over 850 years, St. Cross has provided food and shelter to people in need and today "houses" 24 retired gentlemen, as well as serving the local community.

The Master and Trustees of St. Cross granted us permission to use the venue and after a couple of informal visits/meetings by members of the Provincial Executive, the format of the service and ceremonial were agreed. The Master, the Venerable Michael Harley, Archdeacon of Winchester, with our own Provincial Prelate, Kt. the Rev. Bill Whitfield, conducted the traditional service. 

The service comprised of well loved hymns, one of our own Knights playing the trumpet and the lessons and precepts read by members of the Executive. All twelve Preceptories were well represented and it was a most colourful sight to see so many Brother Knights in their full regalia. The Other Orders were in attendance and they too wore the regalia of their office. A contingent of Knights and their partners travelled long distances from other Provincial Priories to support our service - clearly a sign of the special bond that exists between the United Orders.

The ceremonial was enhanced by the twelve banners of the Preceptories, when processed in and out of the Church and during the service, made an impressive display at the Altar. Once the service had finished, the Clergy and Provincial Prior led the formal procession out and thanked all those present for attending. Traditional afternoon tea was then served to the majority of those attending in the nearby, aptly named, Brethrens' Hall. The Knights, their families and friends, together with those who live and work at St Cross, spent an hour in convivial conversation.

It is certainly known that, not only was it a most enjoyable and uplifting experience, but we have two prospective candidates, who now wish to be considered for admission to the Order. A truly successful afternoon all round!