Sacred Delta Chapter No 216, which meets at the Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool, is one of the oldest Royal Arch chapters in the Province of West Lancashire and is proud to have met continuously since the award of its charter on New Year’s Day in 1849. In keeping with the tradition of the symbolism of New Year which offers an opportunity for reflection, renewal and hope for the future, the companions have been considering the challenges which face many chapters, increasing membership and exploring new ideas for the future.
After the chapter was opened in due form by first principal Ian Elsby, Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies David Boyes was admitted and announced that Canon John Hall, Third Provincial Grand Principal, stood without. First principal Ian Elsby, in response, stated that the chapter would be delighted to receive him. Led by the Provincial escort, Mike Melling and Ken Meath, Third Provincial Grand Principal John Hall, accompanied by Gladstone Group Chairman Paul Storrar was admitted into the chapter.
After all were seated, the three principals, Ian Elsby, David Jones and Mike Fox, all rose to formally welcome John to the chapter, and as is his right, Ian offered John the first principal’s sceptre. Having accepted, John stated that after an afternoon of travelling to Liverpool, he was confident that the three principals were fully equipped to carry out their duties and that he was content to observe the proceedings. He then handed the sceptre back to Ian.
The three principals had resolved to remain in their respective positions for the ensuing year, and it fell to acting director of ceremonies, Mike Melling, to proclaim respectively the first principal, second principal and third principal, as Ian Elsby, David Jones and Mike Fox for the ensuing year. Following the investment of officers, it was the turn of John Hall to rise and bring the congratulations of Mark Matthews, not only to the three principals but the companions of the chapter also who had taken part.
First Principal Ian presented John, with cheques to honour the charities, which were announced to the companions present, as £125 to Maghull Young Adults and £125 to Stick ‘n’ Step. John thanked Ian and the companions of the chapter for their generous donations.
The business of the chapter having concluded, all retired to enjoy dinner at the festive board and continue the installation ceremony in the Pearce suite at the hotel. At dinner, John, again congratulated the chapter and expressed a wish that all continued to enjoy their Royal Arch Masonry.
First principal Ian, in response to the toast to three principals, announced details for the next meetings of Sacred Delta Chapter. The chapter is to host a series of events to explore and discuss local history of Liverpool and the surrounding environs and allow the chapter to attract visitors and guests to allow growth of membership.
To that aim the next chapter meeting will hold a talk to be presented by the renowned Liverpool tour guide, Phil Marshall, entitled ‘A virtual tour of Liverpool’. This promises to be an informative, educational and no doubt humorous event, which as a white table event, is hoped will attract non-Royal Arch Masons to the event for a fun and educational evening.
Sacred Delta Chapter is looking forward to this change and is hopeful that this will allow continuity of the chapter to grow and thrive and continue to promote the enjoyment of Royal Arch Masonry.
