On Monday 25th November 2025, members of the Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs assembled at the historic Church of St Lawrence Jewry for its annual Service of Rededication and Thanksgiving. A moment both of celebration and of reflection was enriched by hymns and music, and a memorable address from our Honorary Chaplain, the Reverend Sophia Acland.

The Chaplain drew inspiration from two striking biblical passages: Micah 6:9–15 and Luke 12:13–21. These texts served as the foundation for an address that challenged, encouraged, and resonated deeply with those gathered. The message? A single, urgent call: Act Now.

The Chaplain spoke candidly about the warnings issued by the prophet Micah, who denounced the corruption and injustice he witnessed in eighth-century Jerusalem. Practices such as false measures, dishonest trade, and social inequality were among the charges levelled at the city’s leaders. “Micah’s punches hit home, but with good reason,” she noted, drawing attention to the resonance of these words in today’s world. In an age marked by social division, rapid change, and geopolitical instability, the prophetic demand for ethical conduct and accountability remains highly relevant.

She went on to remind the congregation that the City of London, while globally respected for its financial leadership, is not immune to the challenges facing wider society. Increased competition, the implications of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, and the ongoing effects of economic inequality all present serious questions. Yet, just as Micah balanced stern critique with a vision of renewal, so too must we recognise our capacity to contribute to positive change.

The second reading, taken from Luke’s Gospel, offered a further provocation. Jesus’s parable of the man who hoards his wealth, only to die before doing anything useful with it, underscores the futility of self-centred accumulation. In her interpretation, the Chaplain invited members to reflect on how their time, talent, and resources might be used in the service of others. “We are called to use what we have in the service of the good, and of others. And we are called to do that not at some vague, far-off time in the future, but now,” she said.

The words of Maurice Greene’s famous anthem “Lord Let Me Know Mine End” echoed this message: “He heapeth up riches and cannot tell who will gather them”.

She praised the work of the Company in living out these values. From the EASI Award, which supports innovative young businesses with social or environmental aims, to the mentoring and financial support provided by members, the Entrepreneurs’ Company continues to make a meaningful difference. She cited the success of the scale-up showcases led by our new Master during his mayoral year, as well as the impact of the Entrepreneurs Trust in supporting education and charitable causes. These examples illustrate that prompt, principled action can generate real and lasting outcomes.

In this context, the call to “act now” is not simply a moral imperative; it is a practical encouragement to all entrepreneurs to harness their creativity and resilience to help address the great challenges of our time. The Chaplain recognised that while global issues can appear daunting, the individual contributions of committed people can be transformative. Quoting anthropologist Margaret Mead, she reminded us:

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

 

 

The sermon concluded with a message of hope and shared purpose. The Chaplain encouraged all present to consider how they might contribute further, whether through philanthropic giving, sharing expertise, mentoring others, or leading with integrity in their own ventures. In doing so, each member affirms the role of the Company as a force for good, dedicated to fostering excellence and supporting those who are creating solutions to the world’s most urgent problems.

As we embark on a new chapter under the leadership of Master Alastair King, may we continue to draw inspiration from our Chaplain’s words. Let us be reminded that the opportunity to make an impact is not something to be deferred. It is something to be embraced with urgency and conviction. The time to act is now.

 

Read the Address Installation Service November 2025.

 

An Inclusive Company, Rooted in Values

NOTES: Membership of the Company is open to successful entrepreneurs of any faith, and none at all. While Livery Companies have long supported the City of London’s parish churches as part of their traditional and civic responsibilities, the Entrepreneurs’ Company is proudly inclusive.

Since 2015, it has proudly appointed Church of England clergy to serve as its Honorary Chaplains, but what unites our members is not religious tradition alone, but a shared commitment to our core values: excellence, integrity, innovation, community, and heritage. These principles guide our work and define the unique contribution our members make within the City and far beyond it.