United Guilds Service
The first United Guilds Service was held on Lady Day, 25 March 1943, the first
day of the year by the old calendar. One reason given for its institution was
to remember the religious origins of the Guilds but essentially it arose out of
the desire of the Companies to unite and help to solve the problems facing the
blitz-damaged City.
At the meeting of the Masters and Clerks of the Twelve Great Companies 1 February
1943 it was resolved to hold this service and to send a petition to the King that
he attend. The Masters and Prime Wardens were to attend in their robes with such
of their livery as 'may be able'.
In the event the King did not attend but the Lord Mayor and the Aldermen did
so. Dr. Fisher, the Bishop of London, gave the address. The Lord Mayor gave an
austerity luncheon after the service to the Masters and Prime Wardens.
In his speech the Lord Mayor hoped that the service would be held annually for
it gave an opportunity for the Livery to 'approach God with one voice of united
prayer'. the Master of the Mercers, Lt. Col. E. Clementi Smith, replied and emphasised
the problems facing the Companies at that date and how they could be relied upon
to do everything possible to rebuild the City.
The arrangements are supervised by a Committee under the Chairmanship of Mr.
J. P. Gough (Fishmonger).
