On Tuesday, 6 October, Bristol Cathedral hosted a service to mark the beginning of the new legal year. The legal year begins on 1 October and is the calendar during which judges sit in court. The service included a sermon from the Revd Dr Andy Murray, Dean of Priority Communities and Chaplain to the High Sheriff, alongside music from the Cathedral Choir and the Preludes Children’s Choir.
The service brought together members of the judiciary, the legal profession, local government, the emergency services and civic institutions, reflecting the longstanding tradition of seeking wisdom at the start of a new legal year. Among those taking part were senior judges, King’s Counsel, magistrates, councillors, the Lord Mayor, High Sheriffs from across the region and representatives of the NHS, police and armed forces.
During his sermon, the Revd Dr Andy Murray spoke about why those in attendance make the sacrifices they make in service of wider society, saying:
“The Holy Bible suggests that God created us this way, so when we cultivate justice, kindness, mercy, and humility we are living out God’s design for our lives - and the world becomes a better place.”
Drawing on the wider themes of justice and community responsibility, the service encouraged those working within the legal system to reflect on their vocation and public duty.
The Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, Dean of Bristol Cathedral, said:
“We acknowledge a shared high calling, a common commitment to a justice that all can recognize, done without fear or favour, affection or ill will. So, we seek God’s strength and guidance that we might remain true to our calling; informed, wise, and just.”
In addition to the services readings, music and prayers, a presentation from Tyreke Morgan of youth organisation Babbasa offered a perspective on the experience of being young and British today.
Following the service, attendees were invited to a reception hosted by the High Sheriff, with donations supporting Bristol Youth Charity Action (BYCA) and Bristol Cathedral.