Bhaktivedanta Manor Communications was delighted to work in partnership with Hertsmere Borough Council to host the Hertsmere Civic Service. The gathering brought together civic leaders, faith representatives and members of the community for an uplifting occasion of prayer, reflection and celebration.

Presided over by the Mayor of Hertsmere, Councillor Parveen Rani and the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Mr Robert Voss CBE, the service celebrated the contribution of civic and faith communities to local life, highlighting shared values of compassion, harmony and mutual respect.

The service opened with a welcome from the Mayor, followed by a reading from the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire and a traditional garlanding ceremony.

Her Grace Visakha Dasi, the Mayor’s Chaplain, led the opening prayers, followed by Sanskrit prayers and a ceremonial blessing for the civic leaders.

Prafulla Shah, from the Oshwal Centre, gave a reading, while children delighted guests with a Diwali and Ramayana-themed performance, sharing the traditional story’s message of goodness and the triumph of light over darkness.

Reverend Steven Young, Team Rector of the Parish of Elstree and Borehamwood, read from a Biblical passage which encouraged sincere love and harmony.

A particularly meaningful moment came when key guests and civic award winners each lit a lamp or tea light, symbolising hope and the positive contribution everyone can make to society.

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The successful gathering demonstrated what can be achieved when local government and faith organisations work together. Hertsmere Borough Council and Bhaktivedanta Manor created a welcoming space where diverse traditions could be celebrated and relationships strengthened.

“Such a wonderful celebration of our incredible community here in Hertsmere’, said the Mayor of Hertsmere Cllr Parveen Rani, “Our Civic Service was filled with joy and warmth at Bhaktivedanta Manor…”