Master Sue Algeo was delighted to welcome World Traders back to live events with a wonderful, Covid-secure occasion in the heart of the City of London.

The day started with an Installation Court at Trinity House, a building steeped in history and decked with historical paintings and artifacts. The Company elevated five members to Livery and welcomed a new Freeman, who were all pleased to have the opportunity to be appointed to their new roles in person.

Following the Court, a larger gathering of members assembled at the Company’s church, All Hallows by the Tower. There, Rev Katherine Hedderly gave a moving service which reminded us all of the power of friendship and the resilience of the City. The Master gave a reading from Isaiah 35 which included the words: “sorrow and sighing shall flee away”. World Trader Richard Burge read from the Philippians: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds…” It was truly a service of thanksgiving for the opportunity to be together – and so much more.

The World Traders choir, in reduced form, sang beautifully and were supported by recorded St Martin’s Voices and the organ. It was a pleasure for everyone to hear the live music.

Afterwards, members processed to Trinity House where lunch was served. While it was not possible to gather for drinks, a happy atmosphere descended on the lunch party and the Master’s speech was enjoyed by all. As she rightly said, how fitting that the first event should be the Thanksgiving Lunch.

Trinity House has a long history of protecting and supporting distressed mariners. Presented with a Royal Charter in 1514, the Corporation of Trinity House of Deptford Strond supported the sailing community, building many of the lighthouses seen around the British Isles today. Each table at the lunch had as its centrepiece a decorative lighthouse to remind us of the work of the City in protecting the mariners who begin their travels from moorings on the Thames. The lighthouses were a wonderful symbol of the support that the City offers and the resilience that comes when we work together. Thank you, Master, for a truly memorable occasion.