As The Weekly goes to press, Westminster Abbey is preparing for its Commonwealth Day Service, with representatives from this growing global network of 56 countries – including Australia and New Zealand – gathering. I’ve been to a few of these, as well as the reception that follows at Marlborough House, and they really are spectacular events. Watching on as the Abbey fills with the bustling energy, tradition and distinctive dress of various cultures, and the powerful feeling of a shared passion and hope for the future is quite overwhelming. The focus is on youth and opportunity with musical performances and readings reflecting that.
The day was “treasured” by the
