Royal Arch News
After attending the Annual Convocation of the Royal Arch Province of Lincolnshire at the Lincolnshire Showground on the morning of 10th May 2017, our Grand Superintendent, E Comp Wayne Williams, accompanied by the Provincial Grand Scribe E, E Comp David Brown, continued their travels towards St Ives for the evening Convocation of St Ivo Chapter.
In addition to a fine exaltation ceremony during which Companion Mike Osborne was welcomed and introduced to the Supreme Degree, the occasion was a well-planned opportunity to present a Jubilee Certificate marking 50 years in Royal Arch Masonry to E Comp Vic Bashford, PPrGScN at the spritely age of 96 years. The Grand Superintendent recalled the occasion of our own Provincial Convocation in June 2013 when it was his pleasure to present to E Comp Vic his “Certificate for Meritorious Service” to recognise his exemplary service to the Royal Arch in this Province in two of our Chapters (St Ivo and Ailwyn) and in which he had served as ME Zerubbabel on two occasions in both as well as MEZ in our First Principals’ Chapter in 2004. E Comp Vic has held the Provincial Rank of PPrGScN for some 25 years - a seasoned campaigner in every sense of the word and a stalwart for the Royal Arch in this Province, having held one senior Chapter office or another consecutively for no less than 31 years. 
During the presentation, the Grand Superintendent also referred to E Comp Vic’s wartime service in the Royal Air Force when he served on the very first of the dreaded Russian North Atlantic convoys in 1941, escorting Hurricane aircraft parts to the Russians as part of the allied war effort. For such courage and bravery, the Veterans were rightly awarded, over time, the Russian Ushakov Medal and, more latterly, the newly minted Arctic Star medal by way of formal British recognition.
E Comp Vic responded in such modest terms expressing his appreciation to all concerned and one who, over the years, has rightly earned the respect and admiration of us all.
- Written by: John Fergusson
On Wednesday 19 April, a most enjoyable event in the calendar of Northants and Hunts Provincial Grand Chapter occurred on the occasion of the Annual Principals evening, which was held at Corby Masonic Centre. This brought together Chapter Principals from across the Province, supported by practically the entire Provincial Team, led by the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E Comp Wayne Williams and accompanied by his Executive
On replying to his toast, the Grand Superintendent gave an extensive overview of the state of the Province which is clearly in very good heart. Of particular interest to all was the news that our Province exalted in excess of 60 new Royal Arch members over the last calendar year; growth on previous year is almost unprecedented and the MEGS paid tribute to all those present, having contributed to what is an extraordinary result.
This evening also saw the introduction of the new static Royal Arch displays, produced by E Comp Andy Moore, designed to publicise the vital fourth stage in completing the journey through Pure Antient Masonry. These were shipped to ten centres in our Province on that very evening, ensuring that they will be immediately highly visible, thus raising the Royal Arch profile to all Master Masons.
A very warm and convivial atmosphere was most apparent throughout the evening, both in the temple and at the excellent Festive Board, culminating in an extremely happy and memorable evening for all present.
- Written by: John Fergusson
Two Companions from this Province – E Comp Stuart Morgan (Montagu Chapter No: 466) and E Comp Jeff Chambers (Chicheley Chapter No: 607), one of our Provincial DGDCs – join a small party that have already embarked on their epic Charitable cycle ride over no less than 900 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
They hope to reach their goal by 1st May during which time they are hopeful of raising sufficient monies to make healthy donations to the Eve Charity for research into Ovarian Cancer and other associated cancers in order to acknowledge the comfort and support given to E Comp Stuart’s late wife, Angie, during her illness. It is also the intention of our two Companions to make a significant donation to the Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire Mark Benevolent Association, to recognise all the help and support that the Mark Charity gives to needy and worthy causes, not least worthy Masons in time of distress and suffering.
We wish E Comps Stuart and Jeff a safe and successful journey and many a happy sojourn along the way. If any Companion wishes to sponsor them, all donations can be sent to: Bro Brian Bell Provincial Charity Steward 62 Highfield Road DAVENTRY Northants NN11 9BJ
All cheques should be made out to the “N&H Mark Benevolent Association”. If Companions would like to increase their donation by Gift Aid and you are qualified to do so, please include your name, full address, and post-code to confirm that you are a UK Tax Payer.
- Written by: John Fergusson
Euston Chapter enjoyed an excellent Installation meeting on Thursday 6 April 2017 which was marked by the official visit of E Comp George Clayton, the 2nd Provincial Grand Principal who was escorted by E Comp Tony Winn, Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies.
E Comp Mike Harrison was installed as MEZ, E Comp David Markham was installed as Haggai and E Comp Alan Randle was installed as Joshua.The quality of the ritual throughout the evening was excellent. This Ceremony itself was a great example of team effort. All the officers taking part gave of their very best and provided incoming First Principal E Comp Mike Harrison with a truly memorable, though belated, completion of his journey to the First Principal's Chair. A very warm and fraternal atmosphere pervaded throughout the evening both in the temple and at a great festive board. Companionship at its very best!
We wish the newly installed Principals a very enjoyable year in their respective offices.
The newly installed Principals (left to right) E Comp David Markham, E Comp Mike Harrison and E Comp Alan Randle
along with the 2nd Provincial Grand Principal, E Comp George Clayton, E Comp, Tony Winn Provincial Assistant Grand Director of
Ceremonies, E Comp Dr Christopher Clark, Provincial Grand Registrar, E Comp David Bowdler, Provincial Grand Steward
and E Comp Robin Hitchcock Past Grand Standard Bearer
- Written by: John Fergusson