ROYAL ARCH MATTERS
Provincial Grand Chapter 2021 Provincial Grand Chapter for 2021 was at held on 29th September 2021, albeit without the usual representatives from other Provinces. Despite the restrictions, a good time was had by all. The Grand Superintendent, Noel Manby, reappointed Paul Wallace as his Deputy, Christopher Packham as Second Provincial Grand Principal, and Jonathan Varley as Third Provincial Grand Principal. In his address to the Companions, the Grand Superintendent said how wonderful it was to see so many Companions in attendance as we move forward to a much more normal existence in both our daily and Masonic lives. He went on to say how delighted he was that during the period of suspension the majority of Chapters held regular social meetings using Zoom to keep in touch with their members. As a result, he had received encouraging reports from several Chapters that Companions who had not been attending prior to the pandemic joined in with the Zoom meetings. This had the effect of rekindling their interest, it was therefore vital that Chapters continue to engage with those particular Companions to ensure that they want to return to their Chapters and once again enjoy the companionship of our meetings and festive boards. It was also commented that there is a place for Zoom meetings in the future whether it is to deal with administrative matters at a Provincial and Chapter level, or simply keeping in touch
with Companions who for one reason or another are unable to attend regular meetings. Noel also said that it is a good time to be a Freemason, and that we must ensure we grasp the opportunity to build on the improvement in the public’s perception of what it is we do in our communities and what it is we stand for. He again repeated the challenge he set out in his address last Christmas and that is, for every active Provincial Grand Officer to introduce at least one new Royal Arch member during their year of office. Finally, he stated that we are planning to hold a full Provincial meeting next March with the usual visitors from adjoining Provinces, and in the meantime, he hoped that as many of the Companions as possible will return to their Chapters and enjoy the companionship of the wonderful Order which we have all missed so much. Pictured left to right, Deputy Grand Superintendent, Paul Wallace, Second Provincial Grand Principal, Christopher Packham, The Grand Superintendent, Noel Manby, and Third Provincial Grand Principal, Jonathan Varley.
Royal Arch Church Service Companions, together with family and friends, enjoyed a lovely service, which was conducted by the Rev. Canon Michael Wilson.
The Royal Arch Annual Church Service was again held at the beautiful St Mary de Castro Church on Sunday 17th October 2021. 26
Leicester Square WINTER 2021
The Tudor Choir were present, and their singing added greatly to the service. The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, Noel Manby, the Second Provincial Grand
Principal, Christopher Packham and the Third Provincial Grand Principal, Jonathan Varley each gave a reading to the attendees. Canon Michael Wilson delivered a thought-provoking sermon with his usual touch of humour. Afterwards the congregation were able to mix, chat and enjoy a glass of wine.
