Thistle & Rose Chapter’s well attended February meeting was special for a number of reasons. It was the new Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, EComp Mark Constant’s first official visit following his installation on Saturday. He was also joined by his newly appointed Second and Third Provincial Grand Principals, EComp Barry Howard & EComp Chris Mullen, along with a number of Active Provincial Officers.
The candidate for exultation on the evening was Brother Robert Poulter. Bro Poulter was Initiated, Passed & Raised within an American Lodge based in Germany in 1979. Concluding his journey thought pure ancient freemasonry 46 years later, proving it is never too late to join the Royal Arch!
Two of the Principals were father & son team, EComp David Hopkins as MEZ along with his father EComp Paul Hopkins as Joshua. EComp Dave Nixon stepped in as Haggai on behalf of EComp Ian Lapsley. EComp Dave Nixon also expertly delivered the complete Symbolical Lecture.
A special mention should go to EComp David Docherty, who despite having a recent spell in hospital came out of retirement to stand in as Principal Sojourner providing a perfect and meaningful performance of the whole Principal Sojourner’s piece. David wasn’t well enough to dine but was complimented in his absence by our new Grand Superintendent EComp Mark Constant.
The Grand Superintendent was delighted to be able to present EComp Steve Seward with his Past Third Grand Principals collarette, thanking him for his years of service to the Royal Arch Executive. EComp Steve thanked the Grand Superintendent and all of those that had supported him over the years.
The Festive Board continued with a Burns theme, with a delicious “Haggis, Neeps & Tatties” starter following the authentic and passionate address to the haggis by EComp Alex Henderson.
During his response EComp Mark Constant commented how much he enjoyed the evening and thanked the Thistle & Rose members and guests for making his first official visit as Grand Superintendent a night to remember.