The joint Annual Meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Chapter was held at Barry Memo Hall on Saturday, 29th of June, 2024. The proceedings commenced at 10:30 a.m. when E.Comp. Simon Francis, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, called the Companions to order. He welcomed and received rulers, dignitaries, and distinguished Companions into the Provincial Grand Chapter, who were greeted with enthusiastic applause.
The Provincial Grand Chapter then received the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, D. Gerald Rowbottom, accompanied by the 2nd Provincial Grand Principal, E.Comp. Lyndon Howells, and the 3rd Provincial Grand Principal, E.Comp. Simon Daniel, along with their Provincial team. Together, they proceeded with the opening of the Provincial Grand Chapter.
In his address, the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent extended a warm welcome to all rulers, dignitaries, distinguished guests, and heads of orders. He gave special recognition to Lincolnshire Freemason E.Comp. Chris Jones, who is undertaking an extraordinary 7,500-mile walk to raise funds for the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF). E.Comp. Chris was present for both the Provincial Grand Chapter and Provincial Grand Lodge meetings, and the Grand Superintendent was delighted to present him with a donation of £1,000.00 on behalf of the Province of South Wales.
The responsibility and honour of investing the Companions was entrusted to the Deputy Grand Superintendent, R. Michael Coombes. Following the reappointments, appointments, and promotions within the Provincial Grand Chapter, the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent addressed the Companions. He expressed his delight at the Province’s proactive approach to embracing the Hermes system, commended the support of his administrative and communications team, and more. His full address can be read here.
The Deputy Grand Superintendent, R. Michael Coombes, then delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks to the Grand Superintendent, which was met with spontaneous applause from all the Companions present, reflecting their warmth and appreciation. The Grand Superintendent and his Royal Arch executive were pleased to be joined by Companions from all parts of the Province, a testament of the togetherness and companionship of our Chapters.
