We enjoyed a splendid afternoon at our OH Memorial Service, filled with warmth and wonderful conversation.
The afternoon began with our traditional meet-and-roast lunch at the Hare and Hounds near Gittisham. There, we enjoyed the usual excellent food and drinks while engaging in lively conversations about Allhallows and life beyond. As 2:30 approached, we made our way to St. Paul's Church in Honiton, excited to reunite with fellow OHs.
Inside the church, the atmosphere was lively with conversation as we found our seats for the service. The Rev'd Canon Chris Vallins, an OH himself, delivered a heartfelt sermon that beautifully captured our school’s spirit and the significance of this time of year as we commemorate All Saints Day and All Souls Day.
We fondly recalled the days when pupils had the entire day off to celebrate All Saints Day.
A poignant moment came as we remembered our recently departed OHs: Stuart Macgregor, John Bardolph, Roy Frith, Nick M. Tomlinson, Robert Baly, Julian R. Hobbs, and Neil Maccuaig.
OH Club Honorary Secretary David Woollatt laid a wreath at the altar, leading us into a moment of silence accompanied by the organ's Last Post.
The service featured stirring hymns, including "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling," "The Lord's My Shepherd," and "For All the Saints, Who from Their Labors Rest."
The address by Rev'd Canon Chris Vallins and Lay Preacher David Shaw provided valuable spiritual insights into All Saints Day and its deep connection to our school community.
A special thank you to all OHs and their families who attended; your presence made the occasion truly special. We are also very grateful to Rev'd Chris Vallins and everyone at the church for their wonderful hospitality and delightful refreshments afterwards.
You can see a copy of the service booklet here.
Looking ahead, we’re excited for our next event—the OH London Cocktail Party and AGM. We hope to see you there!
