QVSR Founder’s Day

On 22nd April, we celebrate our Founders’ Day here at the Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest. It was on this day in 1902 that King Edward VII gave formal approval for the name of the new Seamen’s House and Institute to be named “The Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest.” Previously known as the Wesleyan Seamen’s Mission, a work which began 182 years ago in 1843, the change of name coincided with a major building and renovation work which was undertaken in 1901. The re-naming was done to honour the memory of the late Queen Victoria.

QVSR CEO, Alexander Campbell OBE, welcomed everyone to this year’s service, and invited attendees to join together in songs of praise.

Our lead Chaplain, the Rev’d Cameron Kirkwood, writes: “For all of us associated with the QVSR – it is arguably a significant day in the year. A day when we remember how much we are indebted to the men and women who had the vision that led to the creation of work amongst seafarers and who have contributed to the leadership and vision of the QVSR since. None of this amazing work for which the QVSR has become known would have happened without the foresight of the original founders, who set out with the intention of offering a Christian ministry of care and support to seafarers who sought employment in the docks along the Thames. We owe them a debt of gratitude – without them this important work simply would not exist – and so for this reason we honour them on this Founders’ Day.”

This year we were very pleased to be joined by Carolyn Godfrey, The Vice President of the Methodist Conference, who led our opening prayer.

Prayers also came from QVSR Trustee and Superintendent Minister, the Rev’d Jenny Impey, with Bible readings from QVSR Trustee, Jean Thomas and London Tilbury Seafarers Centre Manager, Julie Hobby.

QVSR Operations Manager, Abdul Kalam, gave an inspired insight of his childhood and growing up in Poplar, reflecting on the importance of community and diversity;

“as someone who doesn’t come from a Christian background, I’ve never felt like I had to set my faith aside here. I’ve always felt respected and included, not despite my faith, but with it…

That’s the kind of place QVSR really is. Where I don’t have to hide who I am. Where I can speak about my faith, ask for religious leave, or share a different perspective in a meeting — and know I’ll be heard. That’s not tolerance. That’s belonging.”

In our celebration, as well as paying tribute to all those who have been part of our fascinating story, we also wanted to recognise those who have made a significant contribution to the local community – Sister Christine from Neighbours In Poplar was the first recipient of our newly created “Rev’d David Roe Award” in recognition of her welfare work here in Poplar.

QVSR Chair, Sir Alastair Norris, gave the vote of thanks at the end of the service. We were delighted that so many of our maritime partners as well as members of the local community came to celebrate with us.

After the service guests enjoyed a delicious buffet and took a few moments to view the historical display curated by our Volunteer Team. The display tells the story of the QVSR from its very beginnings in 1843, highlighting its work in meeting the needs of Seafarers and others who have turned to it for support.