Alfred Robbins Lodge

London’s Royal Arch Chapters and Companions continue to revel in each other’s company with installations, inductions, proclamations, 50-year certificates, Centenaries and a flurry of exaltations taking place. Following wonderful convocations full of fervency and zeal, London’s Royal Arch Masons continue to relax and socialise together, raising their glasses and breaking bread, fully embracing the true meaning of fellowship.

Middlesex Imperial Yeomanry Chapter

Middlesex Imperial Yeomanry Chapter No 3013 met at Freemasons’ Hall on the 25th October 2023, where the Third Metropolitan Grand Principal, E Comp Chris Head, had the great pleasure of presenting four Supreme Grand Chapter certificates to Companions Martin Byrne, David Simon, Courtney Lawrence and Peter Mantell. A wonderful Festive Board was afterwards enjoyed downstairs at Tuttons, Covent Garden.

Guildhall School of Music Chapter

Guildhall School of Music Chapter No 2454 met on the 3rd November 2023 at Freemasons’ Hall, attended by E Comp Wayne Hirst, Metropolitan Grand Inspector, who witnessed the Exaltation of Bro Mihai-Alexandru Enache. A wonderful dinner was then enjoyed at the DoubleTree by Hilton on Southampton Row.

RAF Chapter

On 7th November 2023 at Freemasons’ Hall, RAF Chapter No 7335 celebrated its Diamond Jubilee and was graced with a visit from E Comp Timothy L’Estrange, Deputy Metropolitan Grand Superintendent, escorted by Deputy Metropolitan Grand Director of Ceremonies, E Comp David Siebler. He was supported by Metropolitan Grand Stewards, E Comps Brad Collings and Lex Agathangelou. They were joined by Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendent E Comp Ian Clark and Metropolitan Grand Inspectors E Comps Wayne Hirst and Tony Shepherd.

The Chapter conducted a first class Exaltation of Bro Sqn Ldr Joel Forbes and then proceeded to Install Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp John Burnapp, as First Principal.

At dinner, in the Grand Officers’ Robing Room within Freemasons’ Hall, a brief history of the 60 years of RAF Chapter was presented by E Comp Timothy, in an entertaining and enlightening manner, much to the delight of all present for this auspicious occasion.

City of Westminster Chapter

City of Westminster Chapter No 1563 met at Freemasons’ Hall on12th October 2023 to conduct the double Exaltation of Bros Jose Mattos and Antony Wentworth.

Ex Libris Chapter

Ex Libris Chapter No 3765 met on the 17th November 2023 at Freemasons’ Hall and welcomed Metropolitan Grand Inspector E Comp Tony Shepherd, who was joined by Visiting Officer E Comp Jason Wright. E Comp Tony took great pleasure in presenting Comp Daryll Hughes with his Supreme Grand Chapter Certificate and witnessed the Installation of E Comp James Redgate as Third Principal. The hungry Companions then retired to Tuttons, Covent Garden.

Quintinian Chapter

E Comp Nick Critchlow, Metropolitan Grand Inspector, visited Quintinian Chapter No 5416 on 18th November 2023 at Freemasons’ Hall and presented a Supreme Grand Chapter certificate to Comp Simon Burrill. The Chapter later dined at the Trattoria Verdi on Southampton Row.

Cornhill Chapter

Cornhill Chapter No 1803 met on 21st November 2023 at Freemasons’ Hall for its annual Installation meeting. The Chapter welcomed E Comp Nick Critchlow, Metropolitan Grand Inspector, who witnessed the Installation of E Comps Stephen Day, Jeffrey Bennett and Mark Hobden as First, Second and Third Principals respectively. E Comp Nick was joined by Escorting Officer E Comp Paul Asante; and all retired to a lively dinner at the Trattoria Verdi, Southampton Row, where the contents of the infamous Sweet Trolley were duly demolished.

The Welcome Project: busy in Chapter!

The Welcome Project gives every new Initiate and Exaltee in the Metropolitan area an early opportunity to attend and observe a high-quality Initiation/Exaltation within a short period after joining, chosen from several especially selected Lodge and Chapter meetings. They will meet other recent joiners to London Masonry and build new friendships whilst gaining an understanding of the ceremony they have recently participated in. Engagement is at the heart of the Project’s aspirations. (You can find out more about how the Welcome Project works in Arena 53 at www.londonmasons.org.uk/arena)

As part of the Welcome Project, E Comp Tony Masella, Metropolitan Grand Inspector, visited Sanitarian Chapter No 3458 on 24th February to witness the triple Exaltation of Bros Allen Roderick, Mark McAllister and Leslie Jardine, with a lively lunch following at the Thistle London Hotel in Bloomsbury.

And at Freemasons’ Hall on 4th March, Lambeth Borough Council Chapter No 2941, received a visit from Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Tony Masella, for the Exaltation of Bro Carlos Tiago Fortunato Gomes de Carvalho, as part of the Welcome Project. E Comp Tony also presented a Supreme Grand Chapter Certificate to Comp Jimmy Rahman. The Exaltation Ceremony was conducted by the Metropolitan Grand Chapter Stewards’ Demonstration Team, with ‘Added Theatre’! The demonstration team comprised E Comps Paul Asante, Mick Scotchmer, Ron Cruikshank, David Thompson, Doug Syrett, Chris Burgess, Richard Hime, Dave Luckins and Keith Johnson; and Metropolitan Grand Inspectors, E Comps Nick Critchlow and Wayne Hirst. Before the thirsty Companions retired for a lively Festive Board downstairs at the Boulevard Brasserie, Covent Garden, Scribe Ezra was delighted to announce that the Chapter had attained the Gold Star Award for the Metropolitan Grand Superintendent’s London Air Ambulance Appeal.

The Metropolitan Grand Chapter Stewards’ Demonstration Team had previously performed the ‘Added Theatre’ demonstration at the 18th January Metropolitan Grand Stewards Chapter No 9812 convocation, in Temple 10 at Freemasons’ Hall, also as part of the Welcome Project. The Chapter Principals presiding were E Comps Wayne Hirst, Raymond Adams and Stephen Clark as First, Second and Third Principals respectively. The members passed a Proposition that the Chapter donated 10 ‘white wands and carrying cases’ for the use of the appointed Royal Arch Metropolitan Grand Stewards during their ‘active year’. A wonderful Festive Board was then enjoyed in the Gallery Suite within Freemasons’ Hall.

Temple Chapter

Temple Chapter at Jerusalem No 4611 – the only Chapter in London which proudly practises Oxford Ritual – met at Mark Masons’ Hall on 1st December 2023. First Principal E Comp Tony Shepherd Installed E Comp Andy Kemmish as Second Principal and then Exalted Bro Dave Allcock into this wonderful Chapter. He also welcomed the Chapter’s newly appointed Visiting Officer, E Comp Simon Edwards, for his first visit. The many members and guests enjoyed the Festive spirit with a turkey carvery dinner within Mark Masons’ Hall, replete with Christmas Carols and a hilarious rendition of the 12 Days of Christmas. Comp Philippe Rouse, a Belgian Craft mason, continued what is now a Chapter tradition, physically ‘breaking bread’ with every Companion at dinner since his Exaltation in May 2022. He has attended every single convocation, traveling by Eurostar from Brussels.

Athenaeum Chapter

Athenaeum Chapter No 1491 met on 8th December 2023 at Freemasons’ Hall for the Exaltation of Bro Kiril Topalski, afterwards enjoying a turkey dinner at Tuttons, on the Covent Garden Piazza.

Royal George Chapter

Over 50 Companions attended a very special Royal George Chapter No 3539 convocation on 11th December 2023, to witness a profoundly sincere and entertaining presentation by the Most Excellent Second Grand Principal, Russell Race, of a 50-year Long Service Certificate to E Comp Derrick Silver, former Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendent, at Freemasons’ Hall. Also present were three former Deputy Metropolitan Grand Superintendents: E Comps Charles Grace, Chris Frankland and Chris Clark; former Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendent E Comp Stephen Fenton; current Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendent E Comp Ian Clark; and four Metropolitan Grand Inspectors.

The presence of so many senior Royal Arch Masons and the emotionally charged atmosphere within the temple was without doubt a direct result of the respect and affection with which E Comp Derrick Silver is held within London’s Masonic family. As we are all taught very early in our Masonic journeys, you truly do get out what you put in and a suitably joyous celebratory Festive Board was enjoyed at the DoubleTree by Hilton.

Cheerybles Chapter

Cheerybles Chapter No 2446 met on 13th January 2024 at Freemasons’ Hall and received a talk on the Royal Arch Banners and Ensigns written by Scribe Ezra, E Comp Les Hipwell. A Supreme Grand Chapter Certificate was also presented to Comp Sergio Braga-Mullin by E Comp Tony Shepherd, Metropolitan Grand Inspector. The Chapter had met conjointly with Sure & Steadfast Lodge No 9100 and a wonderfully combined dinner was enjoyed at the Concert Artistes Association in Covent Garden.

Amicus Chapter

On 15th January 2024, the members and guests of Amicus Chapter No 3772 gathered at Freemasons’ Hall for the Chapter’s Centenary celebrations. The Chapter was graced by the presence of E Comp Timothy L’Estrange, Deputy Metropolitan Grand Superintendent, escorted by Deputy Metropolitan Grand Director of Ceremonies, E Comp David Siebler. E Comp Timothy was joined by Metropolitan Deputy Grand Chaplain E Comp Zvi Solomons; former Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendents E Comps Derrick Silver and Stephen Fenton; current Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendent E Comp Ian Clark; and former Deputy Metropolitan Grand Superintendent, E Comp Chris Clark. The Chapter’s Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Tony Shepherd, presented a Supreme Grand Chapter Certificate to Comp Raymond Nedas before Scribe Ezra, E Comp Howard Becker, made a brief presentation of the Chapter’s first 100 years. 45 Companions then dined at BOHO Social, on Charlotte St, W1

Macaulay Chapter: A new home for Royal Arch expertise

The 250th convocation of Macaulay Chapter No 5010 was particularly special, not just for that milestone, but as the ‘launch’ convocation for the new home of ‘current and former Royal Arch Representatives, Coordinators and now, Metropolitan Assistant Grand Inspectors (RA)’.

This launch convocation on the 20th November 2023, not only celebrated the illustrious history of this repurposed Chapter, but helped it turn a new page. Conceived by E Comp David Ellis and implemented by E Comp Nick Allan (Scribe E) with help from the RA Coordinator team (now MAGI – RA), the Chapter is in response to the need to provide greater support, recognition, and collaboration for all those working in these challenging roles, while providing a fun and dynamic environment. This renewed spirit of connectedness will help members thrive in their roles outside the Chapter and further contribute to the growth and success of the Royal Arch.

The inaugural convocation and drinks reception was just such an occasion. Guest of Honour, Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendent, E Comp Ian Clark PGSwdB, entered a full-to-capacity temple to see 39 joining Companions, plus a host of prospective Honorary Members, including himself.

MEZ, E Comp Tony Jacobs, offered the Sceptre to the guest of honour and tried to make a swift exit. E Comp Ian was having none of it and returned the Sceptre to its rightful holder. A ballot for the first 39 joining members, as well as a number of Honorary Members, including E Comp Ian Clark, and, in absentia, E Comps Timothy L’Estrange and Simon White, were warmly welcomed into the Chapter with a unique ‘welcome ritual’.

The convocation anticipates regular items intended to encourage stimulating conversation. The ‘Macaulay Exposition’ this time focused on the ‘Past, Present and Future’ and was delivered by E Comp Peter Sawyer (Past), E Comp Forbes Cutler (Present) and E Comp Ian Clark (Future); and was well received by all the Companions and encouraged lively debate. Future convocations promise a similar blend of discussion, presentations and networking opportunities to enrich Companions’ Masonic journeys. Macaulay Chapter will focus on the key principles of knowledge sharing, mentorship, and personal development.

Rare in these times, the Treasurer was able to announce another unexpected benefit of such increasing numbers: a reduction in annual dues. This was met with rapturous applause.

After retiring from the Temple, members and visitors alike enjoyed a Champagne drinks reception followed by a sumptuous Festive Board in the Gallery Suite; which reflected the sense of occasion.

Macaulay is not a ‘Special Interest’ Chapter, but a ‘Team’ Chapter; and all Royal Arch Representatives, former or serving, are encouraged to join and get involved. It offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. With active participation and contributions encouraged from all members, it aims to be a platform for sharing knowledge, talent and expertise, and provides helpful tips to take back to our Lodges and Chapters to the advantage of all.

For more information, contact the Chapter’s Scribe E or see www.macaulaychapter.org.

Ceylon Chapter

On 16th January 2024, Ceylon Chapter No 6436, met at Freemasons’ Hall to conduct the rehearsal of an Exaltation ceremony; during which Visiting Officer, E Comp Anthony Codd, presented five Supreme Grand Chapter Certificates to Comps Miles Owarish, James Harlow, Emilio Chiquito, Carl Smith and Lucasz Stasiak, all of whom then retired to ‘break bread’ at Tuttons, Covent Garden.

Evening Star Chapter

Also on 16th January 2024, Evening Star Chapter No 1719, gathered for its first meeting after moving from Freemasons’ Hall to Mark Masons’ Hall and received a visit from Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Wayne Hirst. E Comp Wayne proceeded to present 91-year-old E Comp John Round with a 50 Year Long Service Certificate. John had, earlier in the meeting, delivered an excellent piece of ritual whilst acting as Principal Sojourner.

Royal Edward Chapter

At Freemasons’ Hall on 19th January 2024, Royal Edward Chapter No 1489, in the presence of Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Tony Masella, conducted a marvellous Exaltation of Bro Harry McLoughlin. E Comp Masella was escorted by E Comp Tony Allcock OBE, MetAGSoj; the Companions dined at the Hercules Pillars on Great Queen Street.

Avenue Chapter

On 23rd January 2024, Avenue Chapter No 3231 conducted a wonderfully sincere Exaltation of Bro Daniel Safwi at 10 Duke Street, dining at the Oxford and Cambridge Club on Pall Mall.

Robert Burns Chapter

Quite rightly on 25th January 2024, Freemasons’ Hall saw Robert Burns Chapter No 25, in the presence of Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Wayne Hirst, hosted a Red Table Burns Night Supper at the Concert Artistes Association Dining Club, Covent Garden. Roy Burgess served as the piper and seven ‘blue Masons’ were present. The Chapter meeting featured the Exaltation of Bro Dave Chemigz.

Square Mile Chapter

Square Mile Chapter No 9352 met on the 25th January 2024 at 10 Duke Street, St James’s for an Explanation of the Royal Arch Tracing Boards, carried out by the Metropolitan Grand Stewards’ Chapter demonstration team. The presentation team comprised of E Comps Richard Hime, Doug Syrett, Nick Critchlow, Mick Scotchmer and Ian Morrison, who all wore the new Stewards’ Aprons. A delightful Festive Board was enjoyed at the RAF Club on Piccadilly.

Beaconsfield Chapter

On 12th February 2024, Beaconsfield Chapter No 1662 met at Freemasons’ Hall for the Installation of E Comp John Bounds as Second Principal and the Induction of E Comp Jason Wright as First Principal, dining at Tuttons, Covent Garden. Late last year, Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Paul Armstrong, had also attended the Chapter to present E Comp Phil Gibson with a 50 Year Long Service Certificate.

Cholmeley Chapter

At Mark Masons’ Hall on 19th February 2024, Cholmeley Chapter No 1731 gathered for the Exaltation of Bro Julian Meakins with the Chapter’s customary and longstanding ‘added theatre’. A wonderful Burns Night Supper was thoroughly enjoyed, replete with Piper, Address to the Haggis and a dram for all.

St Pauls Column

On 23rd February 2024 at Freemasons’ Hall, St Pauls Column No 7197 met for the Installation of E Comp Martin Groves as First Principal and for the Induction of E Comp David Newcomb as Third Principal. A generous donation of £500 was made towards the ‘Up Against Time’ London Air Ambulance appeal. Welcoming Metropolitan Grand Inspector E Comp Tony Shepherd, who was escorted by E Comp Tony Martin, Metropolitan Grand Steward, the Companions then dined well at the Grange Beaumont Hotel on Bedford Row.

Mount Sinai Chapter

On 27th February 2024, Mount Sinai Chapter No 19 demonstrated the rarely seen ‘Passing the Veils’ ceremony in Temple 10, Freemasons’ Hall, in the presence of Deputy Metropolitan Grand Superintendent, E Comp Timothy L’Estrange; the Second and Third Metropolitan Grand Principals, E Comps Rob Chaproniere and Chris Head respectively; Assistant Metropolitan Grand Superintendent E Comp Simon White; and Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Wayne Hirst.

Ravensbourne Chapter

At Freemasons’ Hall on 1st March 2024, courtesy of Ravensbourne Chapter No 1601, Metropolitan Grand Inspector, E Comp Tony Shepherd, not only witnessed the Exaltation of Bro Paul Lucaci, but played a minor role as Second Assistant Sojourner. The Chapter is adopting the Savage Club Chapter ritual, which features a rearranged running order to that of the mainstream rituals, but with an identical story, which it is widely believed makes better logical sense for the candidate, being shorter in duration and with no meaningful content being lost. E Comp Tony was escorted by E Comp Brad Collings, Metropolitan Grand Steward, and an informal dinner was enjoyed by all at Tuttons in Covent Garden.

This article is part of the Arena Magazine, Issue 54 April 2024 edition.
Arena Magazine is the official magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

Read more articles in the Arena Issue 54 here.