The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals Hosts Annual Carol Service at HM Tower of London

On Thursday 19 December 2024, the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals held its annual Carol Service at the historic Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula, situated within HM Tower of London. The service celebrated the Nativity of Jesus Christ through a carefully curated programme of scripture readings, traditional carols, and sublime choral music.

The evening began with a moving solo rendition of “Once in Royal David’s City,” which set a reflective and uplifting tone. The congregation joined in singing traditional favourites such as “We Three Kings,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” Each hymn was brought to life by the skilled accompaniment of the choir, directed by the Master of Music Colm Carey BMus. Highlights included performances of “Adam Lay Ybounden,” “Gabriel’s Message,” and “Lully, Lulla, Lullay,” alongside a delightful rendition of “I Saw Three Ships.”

A key feature of the service was the series of readings that illuminated the Christmas story. These were delivered by esteemed members of the Worshipful Company:

Miss Mathilde Ellis, an Apprentice, read the First Lesson from Genesis 3:8-15, recounting the fall of humanity.

Mrs Adrienne Harper, The Clerk, presented the Second Lesson from Isaiah 9:2-7, sharing the prophecy of the coming Saviour.

Mr Alan Bullock, a Freeman, read the Third Lesson from Luke 2:1-7, detailing the journey to Bethlehem and the birth of Christ.

Mr Spencer Gifford, a Member, delivered the Fourth Lesson from Luke 2:8-16, narrating the angelic proclamation to the shepherds.

Mr Josef Khan, The Treasurer, read the Fifth Lesson from Matthew 2:1-11, recounting the visit of the wise men and their gifts to the Christ child.

The service concluded with the Sixth Lesson, John 1:1-14, delivered by the Chaplain, The Reverend Canon Roger Hall MBE, which reflected on the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us.

Adding to the evening’s reflections, the Master, Mr Michael Thwaites, shared a touching reading of “Christmas Giving” by Iris W. Bray. The reading encapsulated the themes of kindness, generosity, and community, resonating deeply with all those present.

The Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula provided an extraordinary setting for the evening. Built during the reign of Henry VIII and completed in 1520, the chapel serves as the parish church of the Tower of London. Steeped in history, it is the resting place of figures such as Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey, while remaining a centre of worship for the Tower community.

The Worshipful Company extended its heartfelt gratitude to the Constable of the Tower, General Sir Gordon Messenger KCB DSO & Bar OBE ADC; the Governor of the Tower, Brigadier Andrew Jackson CBE; the Chaplain, The Reverend Canon Roger Hall MBE; and Master of Music Colm Carey BMus for their support in making the event possible. The service was generously sponsored by Insafe International, whose contributions helped ensure its success.

This cherished annual tradition brought together members of the Worshipful Company, their families, and guests, offering an evening of joy, reflection, and celebration of the festive season. Attendees departed inspired by the timeless story of the Nativity and uplifted by the spirit of Christmas shared in this sacred and historic space.