Ceremonial matters

The Proctors’ functions include ceremonial duties at a range of events:

Congregations of the Regent House

In a duty that is both substantive and ceremonial, the Proctors and Pro-Proctors (or their Deputies) are required by University regulation to attend all Congregations of the Regent House (i.e., meetings of the University’s governing body). This means that they are present for each of the 18 Congregation days devoted to the conferral and celebration of degrees.

University Sermons and special services

At least two of the Proctors, Pro-Proctors or Deputy Proctors attend each of the five University Sermons in Great St Mary’s Church, as well as the Mere’s Commemoration sermon at St Bene’t’s and the Sermon before the University in King’s College Chapel. The Proctors (or their Deputies) attend special church services and major memorial services (such as those for former Chancellors, Vice-Chancellors and Past Proctors).

For more information about University Sermons, including this academic year’s preachers, see University Sermons.

Guild of Benefactors

The Proctors and Pro-Proctors participate in the annual ceremony at which new Companions are admitted to the University’s Guild of Benefactors.

Civic events

The Proctors, Pro-Proctors, Deputy Proctors, Marshal and Vice-Marshal attend civic services on Remembrance Sunday at Great St Mary’s Church and at the War Memorial. The Proctors represent the University at the High Sheriff’s annual Justice Service for the County. They are occasionally invited to participate in other civic events.

Other University ceremonial

The Proctors assist in the conduct of in-person voting at elections of a Chancellor or High Steward. They attend the Rede Lecture and the Leslie Stephen Lecture. When the occasion arises, they participate in the Proclamation of a new Sovereign to the University, and in the presentation of a Loyal Address to the Sovereign.