The Blessing of the Thames

Another of those quaint rituals that occur in London that draws on ancient customs although in reality has only been practised in current times for little over a decade.  The clergy from Southwark Cathedral on the south bank of the river Thames head northwards over London Bridge, to meet the clergy from St Magnus the Martyr who head south from their church on the northern banks of the river.

At the half way point (once they all meet on the same side of the Bridge)..

a short ceremony is held, the Bishop of London then tosses a wooden cross into the river....

and they then all head off for a nice cuppa.