On a sunny and pleasant Wednesday evening this week, Chairman of Governors Dr Alastair Wells and Dr Rose Wells; former Chairman of Governors Mr George Pincus MBE; the Headmaster and his wife Poppy, joined with a large group of teachers, pupils, guests, parents and OE Sacristans, for the annual Chapel Dinner.
The occasion has become one of celebration and thanks, and is held to recognise the importance of the College Chaplaincy within the school community. All invited guests had in some way contributed to the life of the Chapel, during the academic year.
The evening began as ever on a formal note with the ancient service of Compline, led by Associate Chaplain, Canon Adrian Esdaile, and sung by a selection of Chapel Choristers under the direction of Mr Luke Fisher. This was followed by an opportunity for informal drinks on the Chapel lawns before being called to Main Hall for dinner.
The three course, black tie dinner matched the occasion with current sacristans, Upper Fourth Michelle Yip (W) and Upper Sixth Harry Lee (H), entertaining guests between food courses with a variety of musical offerings on viola and marimbas respectively. To round off the entertainment Mr Fisher led the Barbershop in a chorus to conclude the meal. OEs and former Sacristans Mark Halstead and Luke Melville were invited to join in the melodies.
All ended with fine speeches from Chapel Prefect, Upper Sixth Laju Aragho (Fa), and Canon Adrian. Toasts were offered by Lower Sixth Isaac Chow (F) to the College Patron, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and also the College itself.
Canon Paul, whose last Chapel Dinner this was before moving on from the College after more than 18 years as Senior Chaplain, also offered a short speech thanking the team of sacristans and everyone who was present for their contribution to the life of St Luke’s Chapel.
Presentations were made in thanks to the leaving sacristans, Laju Aragho and Harry Lee for all their dedication and hard work over many years. Kay Williams who has continued to look after chapel so beautifully was also presented with a large bouquet of flowers in thanks and recognition of her total dedication.
