Nicholas & Camilla's wedding - Comper banner
Dear friends
We are touched by those of you who have requested a suggestion for a wedding gift. It is most kind of you to offer; however, having given it some thought, we would like to direct your generosity to another cause.
Our lives have been greatly enriched by the Church of St John the Evangelist. As is typical of the church community, both parishioners and clergy were quick to offer their assistance in preparation for and on the day of our wedding. We are indebted and would like to take the opportunity to give back to the church.
As some of you will know, the architect Sir Ninian Comper designed a number of furnishings and vestments for St John's, including the recently restored, magnificent cope adorned with the eagle of St. John. Lesser known, yet perhaps more enchanting, is Comper's Banner of the Blessed Sacrament.
Made in the 1890s, the silk, bejewelled and gold embroidered banner has suffered war damage and neglect. It is in desperate need of repair. The attached photographs show evidence of its exquisite detail, elegant composition and colourful design, not to mention the quality needlework carried out by the Sisters of Bethany.
It has been said of Comper's vestments that 'they are the finest works made for the Church of England since the Reformation’. We tend to agree. Furthermore, living and working from the Priory on Beulah Hill and worshipping at St John’s, Comper had a special relationship with the church. It would bring us great pleasure to see his banner restored to its former glory.
The church is in discussion with a professional conservator and estimate the repairs will cost many thousands of pounds. We ask you to consider a financial contribution, of any size, towards this worthwhile project. If you can Gift Aid your donation, that will increase the size of your gift at no cost to you. For those who would prefer to give on the day, there will be donation envelopes at the back of the church. Please write 'Comper banner' on the form.
If you would like to read more about Comper and his vestments, please see links below:
With many thanks
Camilla & Nicholas
Organizer
John Pritchard
Organizer
England
THE PCC OF ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, UPPER NORWOOD
Beneficiary