Joining the Royal Arch (or ‘Chapter’) is often referred to as the fourth and final stage in Pure Antient Freemasonry is available to join once you have been raised and attained the post of a Master Mason for at least four week. Once you are exalted into the Chapter, you are referred to as a “Companion” of the order.
This week, and to help Companions meet, network, learn and support each other in Berkshire, a new club was launched, “The Berkshire Royal Arch Companions Club.”
The Club was formally launched with a celebratory breakfast attended by 65 Companions including a few curious and likely future Companions, who are currently Master Masons.
Peter Oakley, Excellent Companion and 3rd Provincial Grand Principal for The Royal Arch in Berkshire, opened the meeting and shared his personal story of his journey from being a Master Mason through to joining and growing in the Royal Arch. He was joined by Club Lead, James Gilding-Brant who introduced his hand-picked committee, to help steer and support the future plans of the Club.
Supporting the launch of the Companions Club was the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent of Berkshire, Anthony Howlett-Bolton OBE. This is the most senior position of the Royal Arch in Berkshire. MEGS Howlett-Bolton also holds the position of The Provincial Grand Master of Craft Freemasonry for Berkshire. He discussed the importance of how the Companions Club will support the future growth and awareness of the Royal Arch in Berkshire. Deputy Grand Superintendent, Jim Sampins, and Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Berkshire Province, Mark Heppelthwaite congratulated the club and attendees in the forming of the new Companions Club, and wished them well on their future journey.
The Royal Arch Companions Club has three planned events for new members this year, including: a subsidised trip to The Veils Exaltation Ceremony at the Bristol Masonic Centre, an enactment of the 1750’s Royal Arch Ceremony at Sindlesham and a Trip to the Supreme Grand Chapter in London. Joining the club is free for All Berkshire Royal Arch Companions and details of all of the events and how to book them are available in their Private Members Facebook Page Here. With some Q&A’s, the event ended with a round of applause for the organisers.
