The annual Riverside Communion is a popular event; set against the banks of the Thames, the service always proves a hit with staff, pupils and members of the local community alike. However, it had hit a little snag yesterday; despite the fact that it is June, the weather was not kind, and the rain that had been threatening all day proved a barrier for the event. However, not one to be easily put off, the Reverend Stephen Cousins made use of the marquee on the Front Field, and so the Riverside Communion became the Marquee Communion. Pupils from Queen Anne’s School, Caversham, joined the Shiplake cohort and members of local parish churches, to enjoy a beautiful evening service. The Reverend Rachel Ross-Smith, Chaplain to Queen Anne’s, also joined the Rev to host the service.
The service opened with a welcome from the Chaplain, after which the service proceeded with prayers read by the congregation, different readings and hymns. The pupils from each school were joined by members of the local parish. The Chamber Choir performed, and it proved to be a very memorable, moving evening. A refreshments reception followed the service, allowing time for reflection and socialising.
