The Present Day
The size of the Company is voluntarily limited, so that it is possible for Liverymen to know each other at every level and meet frequently to enjoy each others company.
The Company admits Freemen who may then apply for the Freedom of the City of London. Freedom of the Company may be obtained by Patrimony, Servitude or Purchase. Admission to the Livery is by election of the Court of Assistants from Freemen who must be Freemen of the City of London. It is usual, but not mandatory, that Freemen advance to become Liverymen of the Company.
Admission by Purchase is the more general form of entry to the Company. Candidates require two Sponsors who must be members of the Livery. Guidelines have been produced for Sponsors of prospective Candidates and can be obtained from the Clerk.
The Sponsors take responsibility for following these guidelines and in particular for ensuring that they are qualified to propose a Candidate and importantly that the Candidate is fully aware of the responsibilities of becoming a Freeman and Liveryman of the Company. Emphasis must be placed upon the time and financial commitments both initial and on-going.
The Joiners and Ceilers are known throughout the City for their hospitality and friendship towards each other and their guests and it is the responsibility of Sponsors to ensure that their Candidate is encouraged to meet and enjoy the fellowship of the Livery by accompanying him to the various functions over a period of time and until he feels comfortable and accepted.
It is the responsibility of all Liverymen to attend Common Hall for the election of the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs and to attend the three Courts of Livery each year.
Other principal functions and commitments are the Gentlemen's Banquet in November, Ladies Banquet in May/June and the Church Service lunch/dinner in July.
The Livery, their families and guests continue the tradition since 1590 of attending the Annual Service in St. James Garlickhythe in July followed by an informal luncheon or dinner. A Carol Service is held in the church in December for the Livery, families and guests followed by a buffet supper and there are two informal dinners following the March and October Courts of Livery.
The Events Committee organise various informal lunches, visits and activities throughout the year to encourage fellowship within the Livery with particular emphasis on newer Liverymen and their families. The Joiners and Ceilers Golf Society promote an Annual Golf Day for members and guests in the Autumn.