Furness and South Lakeland Group was pleased to host a visit by the Provincial Grand Stewards’ Chapter of West Lancashire No 8516 at Barrow Fairfield Masonic Hall. The beginning of the convocation, held by the members of the demonstration team, seemed rather ‘strange’ as the temple looked rather void of all the items that defines a Royal Arch chapter meeting.
However, as the demonstration began, the forming of a usual temple took place, alongside a clear and informative explanation as each item was replaced in situ. As Rob Fitzsimmons was taken poorly on his journey to Barrow, Terry Dickinson had to take over as first principal for the evening and was a superb stand-in for the ceremony and also at the banquet later in the evening.
The demonstration was spellbinding, as each component was explained and described, before being placed in the appropriate area of the temple. The atmosphere was enhanced by the use of a dimmer switch, which added a subtle solemnity to the proceedings, creating a truly ‘magical’ engagement.
It was a fantastic and enlightening experience to witness. All the banners were described, plus their relation to the four main banners. Having clarified all the various offices within the chapter, finally, it was beautifully explained, that to ‘cement’ a chapter, it was the three principals that made it all gel and make sense.
The companions were then treated to the usual Furness and South Lakeland Group hospitality that was enjoyed by all. Listening to the conversations at the banquet, it was obvious that the demonstration was a success. It is hoped that Deputy Grand Superintendent David Barr, who was in attendance, will not allow another four decades to pass by, before the team perform such an informative and captivating demonstration again.