Blessing the River Thames: A Tradition of Prayer, Hope, and Stewardship

The Blessing of the River Thames is a long-standing diocesan tradition shared by the dioceses of Southwark and London, centred on prayers of protection and thanksgiving, reflecting the river’s vital role in the life of London. For centuries, the Thames has shaped the city by sustaining communities, supporting livelihoods, and connecting people. For Mothers’ Union, this tradition closely reflects our commitment to prayer for families, communities and the places where everyday life is lived. 

On Sunday 11 January, Mothers’ Union members from the dioceses of London and Southwark gathered on London Bridge for the annual blessing of the River Thames. Joining clergy from Southwark Cathedral and St Magnus the Martyr, the ceremony was a visible and prayerful expression of Mothers’ Union’s presence as part of the Church of England in the heart of the city. 

Although the day was cloudy and cold, members were delighted to mark the occasion alongside congregations of local churches and the wider public. The service was led by The Rt Revd Jonathan Baker, Bishop of Fulham, and brought together clergy and communities from both dioceses. It was brief but rich in meaning, with prayers and scripture readings shared, linking ancient tradition with contemporary worship.  

Prayers were offered for all who use the river and bridges, including the RNLI and River Police, and in remembrance of people who have lost their lives in the Thames. A wooden cross was blessed and placed into the water, a symbolic echo of the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan. Carried swiftly downstream by the strong current, the cross quickly disappeared from view as people leaned over the bridge barriers to follow its path. 

Reflecting on the day, Penny Lochhead, Southwark MU Diocesan President, said: “Our dioceses share the river as our boundary, and the reflection that it is the lifeblood flowing through the city served as a reminder that we are enabled by the life-giving Holy Spirit as we fulfil our calling as members of Mothers’ Union, supporting families in central London and across our wider dioceses. It was wonderful to come together in this way as our first act in celebrating our 150th anniversary year.” 

In preparation for the event, Pauline McCalla, London MU Diocesan President, contacted Fr Philip Warner of St Magnus the Martyr, who warmly welcomed Mothers’ Union members to attend and bring banners for the procession. Despite the grey weather, the atmosphere was joyful, and as the Mothers’ Union banners were unfurled, many passers-by stopped to ask questions and learn more about the organisation. All in all, it was a positive and encouraging start to Mothers’ Union’s 150th anniversary celebrations and an opportunity to raise awareness of our work. 

As we look beyond 2026, we pray that moments like these across our movement continue to deepen our dedication to prayer, partnership and service, rooted in hope for the future and confidence that God remains at work in our communities, just as He has been throughout our history.