Jerusalem Chapter No 32 which is ‘attached’ to St George’s Lodge of Harmony No 32, is one of the oldest Royal Arch chapters in the Province of West Lancashire. Founded in 1792, it is steeped in tradition, not often observed.
The installation of new principals at the Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool is always keenly enjoyed, and the companions and visitors were looking forward to the installation ceremony to come. The chapter was opened in the appropriate manner by the three incumbent principals, Stephen Morgan, Christopher Brown and Mark Dimelow, as first, second and third principals respectively.
Principal guest Michael Radcliffe, accompanied by Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals Ian Sanderson and Gladstone Group Chairman Paul Storrar, were all seated within the chapter as the installation proceedings began.
A ceremonial bowl was brought forward and third principal elect Robert Gray partook in a ritual washing of hands, which having been so completed, was then presented by director of ceremonies Paul Shepherd, to third principal Mark Dimelow. Robert orated his obligation as third principal elect faultlessly, and having attended to the necessary scripture readings was placed in the south east.
Having invited Samuel Robinson to occupy the third principals chair, Mark Dimelow was then presented as second principal elect, and again was duly obligated and having attended to the necessary scripture was also placed in the south east.
Paul Shepherd, having collected Christopher Brown, then presented him as first principal elect to first principal Stephen. Christopher was exemplary in his obligation and having attended to the necessary scripture readings, a conclave was declared. First principal Stephen installed his successor in time honoured fashion, and having been so invested, Christopher closed the conclave.
Mark Dimelow having been installed as second principal, and has served in that office before, was then presented with third principal elect, Robert Gray, who was also installed by Mark in fine fashion and invested with robe, jewel and sceptre of that chair.
All three principals having been suitably installed and adorned, and the conclave being closed, and all other companions were admitted. The newly installed principals were then proclaimed by immediate past first principal Stephen Morgan. Paul Storrar delivered an impressive scarlet robe address, swiftly followed by principal guest Michael Radcliffe with the purple robe address and finally by Mark Dimelow who gave the blue robe address, all three delivering perfect addresses.
The ceremony of installation being duly completed, the chapter was closed in solemn form and all assembled in the Crompton’s Restaurant to enjoy dinner. The chapter, like the lodge, prides itself on its hospitality and camaraderie around dinner. Principal guest Michael wished all three principals well in their year in office and brought the best wishes of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews, as well as his own personal congratulations. Long may the chapter companions continue to enjoy their Royal Arch Masonry.