A very warm welcome to St Bride’s as we come together to honour the memory and to celebrate the life of a truly remarkable man, outstanding even within a profession that is renowned for its exceptional characters.
Jeremy Alexander was not only a consummate professional and an extraordinarily gifted writer; he was also a man of immense kindness and charm, who inspired the love and affection of those who knew him, and the deep respect of those privileged to work alongside him.
So it is with sadness, but above all with joy and gratitude that we remember him with thanksgiving today, here at the Journalists’ Church, on what would have been his 82nd birthday.
We shall have as few announcements as possible during this service, so if you would please stand for the hymns and sit for just about everything else, you will not go far wrong.
Our opening prayer is from the Celtic tradition.
Let us pray:
May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow.
May the soft winds freshen your spirit.
May the sunshine brighten your heart.
May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you.
And may God enfold you in the mantle of his love.
May you have the blessing of being consoled.
May you know in your soul that there is no need to be afraid.
When your time comes, may you be given
every blessing and shelter that you need.
And may there be a beautiful welcome for you
in the home that awaits you.
In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.