On Saturday, 8th March 2025, a new page was turned in the history of the Provincial Grand Chapter of South Wales as over 200 Companions gathered for the Investiture of the new Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. Paul Raymond Clement.
The day commenced early, with final preparations and rehearsals at 8:30 AM, as eager Companions arrived in anticipation of the momentous occasion. By 10:00 AM, Cardiff Masonic Hall was at full capacity, filled with an electric atmosphere, with the distinguished presence of Royal Arch Masons occupying every available space.
At 10:30 AM, the Grand Director of Ceremonies called upon the Companions to take their seats in the Duke of Kent Temple. With the Temple completely filled, the Provincial Grand Chapter was formally opened at 10:45 AM by the Most Excellent Third Grand Principal, Gareth Jones, OBE, assisted by Officers of Supreme Grand Chapter, having received current and past executives, dignitaries, and special guests.
The Grand Superintendent Designate’s Patent of Appointment was then submitted for inspection. Having been examined and approved, the Grand Director of Ceremonies was instructed to form a deputation to present the Grand Superintendent Designate, who knelt at the West of the Chapter. The Deputy Grand Scribe E proceeded to read the Patent of Appointment, after which the Most Excellent Third Grand Principal addressed the Designate, seeking his solemn commitment to the duties of the Office.
Following a prayer from the Acting Third Grand Principal, the Grand Superintendent Designate took his obligation and was formally placed in the Chair, marking the beginning of his tenure.
Without delay, the newly invested Grand Superintendent proceeded to re-appoint and invest:
- E.Comp. Simon K.S. Daniel as Second Provincial Grand Principal, and
- E.Comp. Philip Bevan as Third Provincial Grand Principal,
Both reaffirmed their obligations before being duly proclaimed by the Grand Director of Ceremonies.
The Deputy Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. Martyn P. Wake, was then re-appointed, obligated, and invested, with the Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies leading the proclamation. The Grand Superintendent also confirmed the re-appointment of his Provincial Grand Officers, ensuring continuity within the Provincial Grand Chapter.
Addressing the Companions, the Grand Superintendent delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing his honour and delight at assuming office and sharing his enthusiasm for meeting Companions across the Province in the coming months, praising the extremely hard work of his predecessor, With no further business to attend to, Provincial Grand Chapter was closed.
The after proceedings that followed were filled with laughter, companionship, and a strong sense of pride, a true testament to the strength and spirit of Royal Arch Masonry within the Province. It was an unforgettable occasion, marking the beginning of an exciting new era for the Provincial Grand Chapter of South Wales.
As a new era begins to unfold, we reflect on the reign of our Past Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. D. Gerald Rowbottom, whose 8 years in charge serves as a poignant reminder of his immense contributions. His unwavering dedication to Royal Arch Masonry, his leadership, and above all, his love and compassion for all companions will be profoundly missed. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire for years to come.
