A very warm welcome to St Bride’s, the Journalists Church, as we come together to honour the memory and to celebrate the life of Jean Morgan– a remarkable woman, who overcame so much, and achieved so much, during her distinguished career.
Jean was a lifelong lover of journalism, language and people – a true journalist. She overcame asthma as a child which curtailed her education and so she launched herself into journalism, starting in Wales.
Later she moved to London which became her home. She was extraordinarily able, a hunter after stories and a force of nature who influenced many. She was fiercely independent at home and in her career, admired and loved.
An extraordinarily able and intellectually gifted man; astute and perceptive in his analysis; a prolific journalist, author, historian and broadcaster; and a much valued mentor to young journalists – the industry has lost one of its most respected figures.
As we remember her today with thanksgiving, we remember also her family, his colleagues, and all who were close to his heart.
We begin now with an opening prayer by the priest and poet, John Donne.
Let us pray.
Bring us O Lord at our last awakening
Into the house and gate of heaven,
To enter into that gate and dwell in that house
Where shall be no darkness nor dazzling, but one equal light;
No noise nor silence, but one equal music;
No fears nor hopes, but one equal possession:
No ends nor beginnings, but one equal eternity
In the habitations of your glory and dominion
World without end. Amen.
