Civic Service for the Mayor of Guildford:
On Sunday 12 September 2021 a Civic Service for the Mayor of Guildford was held at the Holy Trinity Church. The Ash Manor Combined Cadet Force (CCF) leads a precession including the Mayor, Borough Councillors and distinguished guests from the Guild Hall. Upon arrival at the Holy Trinity Church, the Ash Manor School Choir sang to the congregation as they seated and was greatly enjoyed by all.
Civic Service
The Sermon was performed by the Mayor’s Chaplain, Canon Robert Cotton. He welcomed the congregation and noted that this was the first time that a Cadet Force had taken part in this service. He thanked Ash Manor School for participating in this service so early in the school year, which was greeted by applause.
During the service Hymns including “Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven”, “I Vow to thee, my country” & “Love Divine, all loves excelling” were sung. Prayers were read by Chris Hollingshurt, Guildford Cathedral, Sarah Creedy, Honorary Alderman & Students from Ash Manor. Jane De Lay of Shooting Star Children Hospices explained the work of her charity, which the Mayor has chosen to support this year.
The Promise of Office
The purpose of the service is to affirm that the Mayor has been duly elected and makes a promise before God and the congregation to serve the Borough and its people.
Mayor’s Chaplain: “As Mayor, you stand before God and this congregation to affirm your intent to serve this Borough and its people, upholding all that is right and good in our town and villages, and honouring God with your life and service during your year of office.”
The Mayor: “I, Marsha Jayne Moseley, having been elected to the office of Mayor for the Council of the Borough of Guildford, hereby reaffirm that I have taken the said office upon myself.
I will duly and faithfully fulfil the duties thereof according to the best of my judgment and ability. I have undertaken to be guided by the Councillors’ Code of Conduct in the performance of my functions in that office.
I do further affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, her heirs and successors according to law.”
Concluding the service
After prayers and singing the National Anthem, the congregation was dismissed. The Ash Manor School Choir sang to conclude the service. The Ash CCF led the congregation out of the Church to return to the Guild Hall, where the Mayor thanked all for attending.
