An Evening of Ceremony, Milestones, and Good Company
There are some evenings that neatly capture everything that is good about Chapter life and this was certainly one of them. A well balanced blend of ceremony, quiet achievement, and conviviality, all delivered with that familiar rhythm that makes these meetings both meaningful and enjoyable.
The Chapter opened in good order, with a particularly warm welcome extended to the Inspector General, whose presence always brings a certain sense of occasion without ever feeling overbearing. Visitors were equally well received, and the room quickly settled into a relaxed but purposeful tone.
Business was dispatched efficiently, as one would hope, before attention turned to the more engaging parts of the evening.
A New Companion Joins the Fold
The ballot for John Wenborn proved successful, and he was subsequently Perfected into the Chapter. His journey into the Order was marked by a ceremony delivered with clarity and confidence by those taking part. It is always encouraging to see the ritual handled with both care and a sense of enjoyment, and this was no exception.
Alongside this, the Chapter was also pleased to welcome Illustrious Brother Godfrey Webster 30° as a Joining Member. Bringing with him many years of experience, his presence will no doubt add further depth to the Chapter’s already strong membership.
A Remarkable Milestone
The clear highlight of the evening was the presentation of a Fifty Year Certificate to Illustrious Brother Peter Bassett 31°. While the certificate itself marks fifty years in the Ancient and Accepted Rite, it only begins to reflect the depth of his Masonic career.
Peter has been in the Craft for some sixty years, and his contribution across the Orders is quite extraordinary. A Very Worshipful Brother in Craft, he is a Past Grand Superintendent of Works, a Past Grand Sword Bearer in the Chapter, and a Past Grand Junior Overseer in the Mark, alongside holding Grand Rank in several other Orders. He currently holds the rank of Past Grand Sword Bearer.
At 96 years of age, Peter remains a quietly impressive figure. Having moved to the area some twenty years ago to be closer to his daughter, he has continued to support and contribute to local Masonic life ever since.
In a few well chosen words, he thanked the Companions and wished the Chapter every success in its future endeavours, a simple sentiment, but one that carried real weight given the years behind it.
Looking Ahead
With the formalities complete, attention turned briefly to the future. Craig Harding was elected as Most Wise Sovereign for the ensuing year, alongside Bryan Wilson 30° as Treasurer. Both are well known within the Chapter, and their appointments were received with confidence and support.
Ending on the Right Note
Of course, no meeting would be complete without the Festive Board, and this one did not disappoint. A classic serving of pie and mash provided the perfect setting for relaxed conversation, a few well placed anecdotes, and the easy camaraderie that rounds off the evening so well.
It is often said that the strength of a Chapter is found as much in its fellowship as in its ritual. If that is the case, then this was an evening that demonstrated both in equal measure.
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable meeting and one that bodes well for the year ahead.
Aricle by Craig Harding
