On Sunday night I led a very dramatic service in which the eighth Bishop of Christchurch, Victoria Matthews, was installed as Warden in Christ’s College, Canterbury, the school where I serve.
Ancient and contemporary combined: organ, brass, timpani, violin, French horns, fanfare trumpets, choirs, and board, staff, families, and students at full voice sang Maori, Latin, and English – from the ancient Psalm 100 sung in powerful canon, to twenty first century renditions. Mr Robert Aburn (Director of Music) and Mr Matthew Cook (organist) led this music superbly. Justice Young, Acting Board Chairman, received the legal requirements from Bishop Victoria and, after promises made by her and by us all, he inducted her and assigned her the seat of her office to loud applause.
Bishop Victoria preached on the readings of the day read by the Head Prefect, Winston Cosgrove, and the Headmaster, Mr Simon Leese. As warden she encouraged and challenged us all to grow into the image of God given to us. A significant, memorable service, with strong pacing and full, enthusiastic participation. As I said at the start of the service: “We meet to install our Warden. We meet to worship God.”
Further photos
Photo above L to R: Rev. Bosco Peters, Bishop Victoria Matthews, Justice William Young
All photos by Mr David Johnson
