4 minute read
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.
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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.
The Royal Arch Annual Church Service was again held at the beautiful St Mary de Castro Church on Sunday 17th October 2021.
Royal Arch Church Service
Companions, together with family and friends, enjoyed a lovely service, which was conducted by the Rev. Canon Michael Wilson.
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.
Supreme Grand Chapter
On Wednesday 10th November 2021, the first full Supreme Grand Chapter meeting since the lockdown was held at Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London.
It was so lovely to see the Grand Temple filled with Companions in their colourful Royal Arch regalia. This was the first time that Excellent Companion Steve Finnigan had been able to attend since receiving his Grand Rank of Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies.
The ceremony could not be held in April this year due to the pandemic, so unfortunately Steve missed the honour of having his Grand Rank bestowed on him and his collar placed over his head.
The picture shows those who were able to attend from our Province, although they were not able to stay for the Festive Board, due to the meeting of Gartree Lodge to celebrate Michael Herbert’s 60 years in Freemasonry.
Chapter of Installed First Principals
The first major Chapter convocation after the easing of Covid restrictions took place on Thursday 23rd September 2021 at Freemasons’ Hall, Leicester when the Grand Superintendent, Noel Manby was installed into the chair of Installed First Principals Chapter No. 7896 by the Third Provincial Grand Principal, Jonathan Varley.
Royal Arch Communications Team
About two years ago our Grand Superintendent, Noel Manby, decided that he wanted a Communications Officer and appointed me to that position. Noel was obviously ahead of the game as now Supreme Grand Chapter is asking each Royal Arch Province to have such an officer, although making the point that it is not a collared appointment.
At Supreme Grand Chapter in London on 10th November 2021, a presentation was given showing the way the method of communication in the Royal Arch will proceed in the future. The first meeting of Provincial Communications Officers took place after that meeting. Therefore, I am anxious to gather a team together, in our province, to work with me on the various aspects of communication. So, I would be keen to hear from anyone who has skills in or a knowledge of the following: Facebook
Messenger
You Tube
Writing Articles
Photography You can contact me via email at jpeberdy@aol.com and I will be happy to share my thoughts on what your role could include.
