‘Not farewell but fare forward’ – Queen Anne’s School hold biennial service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey
Queen Anne’s School pupils travelled to London on Friday 5 November 2021 to uphold an important and prestigious Queen Anne’s tradition – the biennial service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. One of just six schools that have the great privilege to hold a service in the Abbey, the service was even more poignant as the community thanked Headmistress Julia Harrington for her 15 years of Headship, creativity and dedication.
At the last service in 2019, it would have been impossible to imagine the events of the last 18 months. This year, the usual guest list of almost 2000 pupils, alumni, parents and staff was sadly restricted due to the COVID pandemic. However, all pupils were able to attend and mark the occasion together and were excited and proud as they arrived in London to see the Queen Anne’s flag flying high over Westminster.
A beautiful and moving service was conducted by Reverend Anthony Ball, Canon of Westminster, Rector of St Margaret’s Church and Trustee of the United Westminster and Grey Coat Foundation, that Queen Anne’s School is proud to be a part of.
The Procession opened the proceeding led by crucifer Nam Charlotte (Lower 5) and acolytes Annabelle (4) and Angel (Upper 5). The Foundation Chalice, borne by Deputy Head Girl Sahiba (Upper 6) and the school Flag, borne by Deputy Head Girl Rowena (Upper 6) were carried to the High Alter escorted by younger pupils Alexandra (4) and Lucy (Upper 4).
Roy Blackwell, former Clerk to the United Westminster and Grey Coat Foundation, gave an inspiring and upbeat address. He spoke of this fondness of oxymorons, sharing their playful use in the arts, science and everyday life. He gave the pupils a powerful message to not be afraid to stand up for what they believe in and that even the small and brave act of saying ‘no’ can be incredibly powerful. As great supporter of Queen Anne’s School for many years, Mr Blackwell was well-placed to share in his happy memories and thanks for the innovative and enthusiastic commitment of Julia Harrington throughout her 15 years as Headmistress. His address came to a close with a message from T. S. Elliot’s The Four Quartets ‘Not farewell but fare forward.’ A reminder of the longevity of spirit of the Queen Anne’s community and that those that move on to the next chapter of their lives will always have a part of Queen Anne’s with them.
The music and hymns in the service reflected the themes of remembering, thanksgiving and hope with a stunning collection of music presented including Paean by Percy Whitlock and Rhosymedre by Ralph Vaughan Williams. The school Consort Choir and School Voices led by Director of Music John Padley were joined by several guest alumni singers.
In a reflection of Roy Balckwell’s address, Senior Deputy Head Mark Richards commented with his own oxymoron on seeing the alumni singers “It was a bittersweet and emotional moment to see the old girls return to sit alongside current pupils for this wonderful tradition.”
Throughout the service the voices in the choir soared over the congregation, filling the Abbey with beautifully magic moments.
Particularly effective and haunting was the Echo Carol by Philip Wilby for which the solo singers led by Molly U6 sang from the organ loft creating a heavenly sound and atmosphere. The same can be said for U5 Nga Yan’s solo flute performance of Debussy’s Syrinx which accompanied the readers during the intercessions.
The journey of the service led to the final choir anthem ‘All shall be, Amen and Alleluia’ followed by the triumphant organ and brass, giving us hope and optimism for the future.
On the return coach the girls were offered gingerbread – a tradition that stretches back as far as 1698 and the original Westminster and Grey Coast Hospital foundation.
Julia Harrington said, "This was my 8th Westminster Abbey service and, although it was very different in many ways to the previous occasions, it was nevertheless every bit as special for us all. The girls and staff demonstrated just how special our Queen Anne’s community is, whatever besets us. I could not have asked for a more poignant and wonderful service for my final thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. It was an exceptional day. My thanks go to all who made it so."
The school looks forward to the future and 2023 when we hope the whole Queen Anne’s community will meet again at Westminster Abbey.
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