Warwickshire High Sheriff hosts multi-faith service at Warwick's St Mary’s Church

This was the second of two legal services marking the start of the county’s legal year – the first service was held at the Gurdwara Sahib in Leamington.

The service on October 1 was attended by around 280 guests, including representatives from Warwickshire's judiciary, legal profession, and local government, alongside High Sheriffs from neighbouring counties.

Attending dignitaries included the Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire, Tim Cox, mayors from across the county, and representatives from blue-light services, charitable organisations, youth groups, and religious communities from Warwickshire.

The ceremonial legal procession travelled from Shire Hall, through Northgate Street, to St Mary’s Church.

The service then opened with a fanfare by Warwick School fanfare team and a musical performance from the Sikh Community Jagmeet Rihal.

Performances were also given by Warwick Preparatory School senior choir, the Warwickshire and Coventry Gospel Choir, and from the organist Oliver Hancock.

The address was delivered by Reverend Canon Angus Aagaard and the Sikh Chaplin Surjit Singh.

The High Sheriff of Warwickshire, a role that represents His Majesty the King in all judicial matters across the county, plays a key role in upholding law and order.

During her tenure, Rajvinder Kaur Gill has dedicated herself to supporting both voluntary and statutory organisations that contribute to maintaining the justice system and public safety.

A key responsibility of the High Sheriff is the annual legal service, traditionally held in October to coincide with the start of the Michaelmas legal term.

This longstanding custom, dating back to when judges travelled from London to hold trials at local assizes, has been modernised to embrace Warwickshire's multi-faith and diverse community.

High Sheriff Rajvinder Kaur Gill said: “I was delighted to be joined by representatives of such a wide range of faiths – from Christianity and Catholicism to Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, and Sikhism – all coming together in our service.

"Their prayers, thoughts, and music brought a powerful sense of unity, understanding, and respect to this celebration of law. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making the service a success.”

Cllr Izzi Seccombe, leader of Warwickshire County Council, added: “The High Sheriff’s Legal Service is a cherished tradition in Warwickshire’s ceremonial calendar, and this year’s event truly stood out.

"More inclusive communities foster greater understanding and harmony, and I commend Rajvinder Kaur Gill for organising such a thoughtful and diverse service to mark the beginning of the legal year.”

Speaking about the event, Tim Cox, Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire, said: “It was a privilege to attend this multi-faith service to mark the start of the legal year.

"I would like to thank Rajvinder Kaur Gill for her kind invitation and for leading such a meaningful event.

"The team at the Collegiate Church of St Mary created a memorable experience, enhanced by the exceptional music, singing, and readings.”

Find out more about the High Sheriff of Warwickshire here: https://highsheriffofwarwickshire.co.uk/