On Monday, 30th June, 120 Royal Arch Companions from Berkshire and beyond assembled at Sindlesham Court for the historic consecration of a new Royal Arch Chapter for the Province of Berkshire.
Formally consecrated as Combined Services Chapter No. 9900, the Chapter is now the latest to be added to the roll of the Supreme Grand Chapter of England. The event marked a proud and meaningful occasion for the 20 petitioners, who then became Founders. Each playing a key role in establishing this new chapter of Royal Arch Freemasonry.
The Chapter shares its number with its sister Berkshire Lodge — Combined Services Lodge No. 9900 — already established under the United Grand Lodge of England. Like its Lodge counterpart, the Chapter offers a welcoming and vibrant Masonic home to those with a background from the Armed Forces or Emergency Services, providing a space where shared experiences and values can be celebrated through the unique lens of Royal Arch Freemasonry.
[The Consecrating Team, the Combined Services Chapter Principals and the attending Founders. ]
Consecrated with dignity and celebration, Combined Services Chapter No. 9900 is now a place where Royal Arch Companions can explore the deeper meaning of the Order, while enjoying the camaraderie and shared purpose of their past service.
[The Berkshire Choir members, who brought the joy of sung verse and hymns at various key moments throughout the Consecration.]
[Some of the items that were used during the Consecration ceremony… Which is really quite a sight to see and the author recommends you try to, at least once…]
Following the ceremonial proceedings, the Companions gathered for a Festive Board with a distinctive “rations pack” theme, in keeping with the Chapter’s service heritage. The menu included a traditional Egg Banjo (fried egg sandwich), steak and kidney pudding, and a selection of cheese and biscuits — all served in good humour and high spirits.
[The Combined Services Chapter Principals Toasting at the Festive Board L to R: Ecom Paul Thomsett, PProvGSwd, H; E Comp Jamie Ingham Clark PGSoj, Z; E Comp Gil Singleton PProvGSoj, J.]
The first full meeting of Combined Services Chapter No. 9900 will take place on Wednesday, 23rd July at Sindlesham Court, where the Chapter will conduct its first Exaltation ceremony.
[Consecrating Team and the Founding Principals L to R: E Comp James Sampins PGSwdB, Deputy Grand Superintendent; E Comp Peter Oakley PGStB, Third Provincial Grand Principal; Ecom Paul Thomsett, PProvGSwd, H; E Comp Anthony Howlett-Bolton, OBE, Most Excellent Grand Superintendent in and over Berkshire; E Comp Jamie Ingham Clark PGSoj, Z; E Comp Bernard Greenwold, PGSwdB PDepGSupt, Acting Provincial Grand J; E Comp Gil Singleton PProvGSoj J]
Membership enquiries are warmly welcomed from those with experience in the Armed Forces or Blue Light Services, and qualified Royal Arch Masons from all backgrounds are always invited to visit and share in the fellowship.
(For visiting or membership enquiries please contact the Scribe E of the Chapter: scribeec9900@gmail.com )
