On Sunday 7 June St John’s Wood Church gathered for a Festal Eucharist and farewell celebration to mark Anders’ retirement as the Vicar of St John’s Wood after 24 years of ministry in the parish. The service brought together parishioners, former curates, clergy colleagues, and friends from the local community and other denominations and faiths. We gathered to give thanks for Anders’ ministry, preaching, pastoral care, liturgical scholarship and leadership at St John’s Wood.
As Anders reminded the congregation in his final sermon, the Eucharist was dedicated to St Barnabas, whose name means “son of encouragement”. Anders reflected on the encouragement he himself had received at St John’s Wood over many years, and on the encouragement the parish community has given more widely.
Together with Director of Music Michael Cayton, Anders carefully selected the music for the service, each piece carrying a particular personal significance.
The distinguished English violinist Thomas Bowes joined Michael and St John’s Wood choir in a musical contribution which greatly enriched the worship and liturgy.
The service was followed by speeches from former curate Jeremy Tayler, Anders’ colleague on the Liturgical Commission Colin Podmore, and Archdeacon Luke Miller. Their reflections ranged from the humour and friendship shared with the many curates who trained under Anders, to his immense scholarly contribution to the liturgy of the Church and his tangible legacy in areas such as modern church silver. This was followed by a presentation to Anders from the churchwardens, Judy Booth and Graham Young, on behalf of a grateful congregation.
As a final act before leaving the church building, Archdeacon Katherine Hedderly formally relieved Anders of his responsibility for the cure of souls of the parish.
The congregation then moved to the church hall for a joyful reception and celebration, with a generous spread of food, music, conversation, and reunion among friends old and new. It was a fitting conclusion to an evening marked throughout by gratitude, affection, and thanksgiving for Anders’ ministry at St John’s Wood.