ROYAL ARCH MASONRY (CHAPTER)
Provincial Grand Chapter
Address by the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent
Companions
Whilst this has been a much-curtailed provincial meeting, held principally to comply with the requirement to hold a meeting each year, there are a couple of things that I do wish to say.
First, I must congratulate EComp Chris and David on (at last) being installed in their new roles. Both appointments are very well deserved based on past contribution and I have no doubt that both will work tirelessly for the benefit of the Province going forward. In particular, I have asked David to direct his boundless enthusiasm and passion for the Royal Arch towards membership matters, and I know he will work closely with the Deputy Grand Superintendent on that. However, the current suspension of exaltations presents a challenge, not just for them, but for all of us, and we must plan diligently for the time when the suspension is lifted and we can resume exaltations. Now is the time to ensure that we have candidates in the pipeline and not to wait. I hope that the announcement in this month’s second rising that the province will buy the regalia for candidates for the next year will encourage that,
The active officers for the current year formally took office back in March, but they have not had a chance to take advantage of that role. We have therefore decided that these officers will continue for a second year in their respective roles, so that they have a proper opportunity to visit the chapters in the province as we return to normal activity.
Companions, the last six months have been a challenge for everyone. Some have been hit very hard, I know, and I am sure we will continue to see the effects for some time to come. But our province has responded well in so many different ways and we should all be proud of that. Let’s take those positives and build on them for the future benefit of this Order, our Province and our own units.
Companions, continue to look after yourselves and remain safe. May the True and Living God Most High keep you, your families and friends under his watchful eye.
Active Officers of Provincial Grand Chapter
Due to the current exceptional circumstances surrounding the pandemic, the MEGS and Provincial Executive are all in agreement that it has been a very difficult year and that the Active Provincial Officers for 2020 should be given the opportunity to serve their active rank with distinction once the current social distancing restrictions have been lifted.
Therefore, all active officers of Provincial Grand Chapter have been informed that the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent intends to reappoint them for a further twelve months at the next PGC meeting currently arranged for 18th March 2021.
Andy O’Sullivan
Provincial Grand Scribe Ezra
Email: prgse@oxfordshirefreemasons.org