This morning, Friday 16 September, pupils and staff from across the College gathered in the Sports Hall for a Service of Thanksgiving to Celebrate the Life of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Featuring hymns, prayers, and poems, it provided an opportunity for the College to gather and pay their respects.
Beginning with the sombre Funeral March for Queen Mary, played by the College Wind Ensemble, the Sports Hall was basked in song and music as the College rose to sing In Christ Alone.
On a morning of several prayers, the College Chaplain, Revd Briggs, began the procession with The Bidding Prayer, a prayer of mourning, remembrance, and celebration.
“As we call to mind the promise made at her Coronation that all her judgements should be guided by Law, Justice and Mercy, we rejoice in her steady acceptance of this vocation. We celebrate her love for her family, her commitment to duty, and her calling to create unity and concord at the heart of the Commonwealth.”
This was followed by a rendition of Homeward Bound, sung beautifully by Year 9 pupil, Max Marson-Day, who captivated the whole school – no small feat considering the momentous nature of the occasion.
In the first of two readings by the Joint Heads of College, Samuel Edwards recited Isaiah 61. 1–3.and in the second reading, Phoebe Kay read Romans 14. 7–12.
In his address, Revd Briggs paid tribute to whom he described as “the most famous woman”, and a beacon of continuity and servitude. He recalled stand-out moments in her life, in addition to her presence and impact on a national, and global scale. The address concluded with a time of reflection, in which a photograph from each year of Queen’s life was displayed on the screen.
Following on from a set of prayers, led by pupils from across the College, attention turned to the Camerata, who sang The Lord is my Shepherd with Mrs Rapple Moore conducting.
Next to speak was Year 9 Matthew Perry, the College Poet Laureate, who read his poem, In Loving Memory of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Matthew reads his poem in the video below.
Last to speak at the Service was the Headmaster, Tyrone Howe, who read John Donne's, Words of Commendation, before the service concluded with the College singing The National Anthem, for many the first time singing the words God Save the King.
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