Papal Nuncio's Summer Reception

As a result of our discussions with the Rev Alan McCormack, vicar of St Vidast-alias-Foster where the Associated Companies Carol Service is to be held, my Mistress and I received an invitation to attend the Papal Nuncio's Summer Reception.  Alan is an Anglican yet has close ties with other churches.  The event took place on 26th July at Papal Nunciature on Wimbledon Common.  The Papal Nuncio is the charming Archbishop Antonio Mennini and is the Vatican’s Ambassador to the Court of St James’.  The Nunciature is a splendidly Italianate mini palace with formal if slightly ‘relaxed’ garden behind.  Among the guests were a number of friends from the Livery Companies including Brigadier David Santa-Olalla, Clerk to the Leathersellers.  We also met the Librarian to St Paul’s Cathedral, Joe Wisdom who is married to the Administrator of St Vidast and was very knowledgeable about the WW1 Altar Frontal.