Reception following the Installation of Reverend James Titley
16th July 2023Guildhall
It is always an honour to visit the Guildhall and shake hands with the Lord Mayor, who works tirelessly to support the City of London, expanding financial partnerships, protecting the environment, raising money for his chosen charities and even for pollinating bees! A businessman who has morphed into the penultimate politician, Nicholas Lyons, like his predecessors, has the enviable ability to remember people- without a prompt! Our conversation included a reference to the Master’s Weekend Away in Glasgow, his meeting and conversing with Mistress Will and his trip to India, which paved the way for Chris Hayward’s recent visit. On this occasion friends, family, members of his past and present congregation, peers and church leaders joined Masters of Livery Companies, Guilds and Representatives of the City of London, to congratulate The Reverend James Titley on his new role as Guild Vicar of St Lawrence Jewry. It was fascinating to see City of London officiants, who typically surround the Lord Mayor carrying mace or a sword, welcoming into the fold, the man who represents the spiritual side of the City of London Corporation. James in his own speech of appreciation remarked about his new view, which this past week included the King arriving and departing. James’ friendly, open demeanour was lovely as he encouraged people to return to St Lawrence Jewry to see the results of the intensive restoration as well as to attend the varied services on offer. It is not surprising, when you have a Lord Mayor and a Vicar with inclusion in their hearts, that you have a City bursting with goodwill in their soul.