The annual service to commemorate the life and work of Florence Nightingale (1820-1910) was held at Westminster Abbey, London, England, May 7, 2014, 6:30 pm—7:30 pm. This annual service celebrates nursing and midwifery and all staff working in healthcare services that include active duty military nurses. This is to honor Nightingale’s legacy and her work caring for soldiers during the Crimean War (October 1853—February 1856).
In attendance was Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra, Royal Patron of The Florence Nightingale Foundation, who was presented a bouquet of flowers by Gideon Rowland, aged 10, son of the Lamp carrier Gloria Rowland.
Over 2000 nurses, midwives, healthcare professionals and guests attended the service. Barbara Dossey, INCA Co-Director and Florence Nightingale scholar, was in attendance (seated on left under pulpit, second row, 7 seats in). The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr. John Hall who also gave the Address, led the service. Ros Moore, Chief Nursing Officer Scotland, gave the first reading and Group Captain Michael Priestley, Defense Nursing Advisor, delivered the second reading.
Gloria Rowland led the traditional Procession of the Lamp with an escort of student nurses from the University of the West of England. On arrival before the High Altar, the Lamp was handed to Lee Marklew who, in turn, passed the Lamp to Róisín McKeon-Carter. Gloria, Lee and Róisín are all Florence Nightingale Scholars.
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