Report of the Annual Convocation | Thursday, 11th June 2026
Executive Summary
The Annual Convocation of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Freemasons in Berkshire was held on Thursday, 11th June 2026, at the Berkshire Masonic Centre, Sindlesham.
The convocation was a resounding success, marked by ceremonial precision, the appointment of new Provincial Officers, and a strong sense of unity and shared purpose. Reflecting the Province’s ongoing strategic transition towards a vibrant, member-centric civic organisation, the event successfully balanced solemn ritual with a warm, celebratory atmosphere, concluding with an excellent Festive Board.
Dignitaries and Distinguished Guests
The Convocation was greatly enhanced by a strong turnout of Grand Officers and distinguished visitors, reflecting Berkshire’s excellent relations with neighbouring jurisdictions.
• Presiding: The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, supported by the Deputy Grand Superintendent and the Provincial Principals.
• Distinguished Visitors: In attendance were numerous Visiting Grand Superintendents and Provincial Executives representing a wide array of external Provinces, continuing a long-standing tradition of mutual support and generous hospitality.
Ceremonial Highlights & Appointments
The Convocation was opened in due form, proceeding with the dignity and precision that characterizes the Royal Arch in Berkshire.
Appointments and Promotions
The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent invested his newly appointed Principals and Provincial Grand Officers for the ensuing year. Honours were conferred both upon Companions receiving their first Provincial appointments and those receiving well-deserved promotions. Notably Excellent Companion Steve Hieke passed the sceptre to Excellent Companion Paul Wilding as newly appointed 3rd Grand Principal. In his address, the most Excellent Grand Superintendent explicitly charged all newly invested officers to wear their rank with pride and to actively lead by example within their respective Craft Lodges and Chapters.
Welcome to Newly Exalted Companions
A significant highlight of the ceremony was the formal introduction of 12 newly Exalted Companions, each attending their very first Provincial Grand Chapter. They received a warm and distinct welcome and a small gift from both the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent and the Deputy Grand Superintendent, underscoring the Province’s commitment to mentoring and integrating its newest members.
Key Notes from the Annual Address
The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent delivered a powerful and forward-looking address, marking the completion of the three-year “One Organisation on One Journey” transition. Key themes included:
• Cultural Shift: The successful implementation of a “yes if” culture across the Province.
• Growth and Re-engagement: A reminder that personal contact drives 80% of membership growth, with a directive to Chapters to actively re-engage Companions whose attendance has dropped.
• The Modern Freemason: Alignment with the national strategy to promote a visible, civic-minded society based on four pillars: intellectual underpinning, community visibility, modernized language, and social impact.
The full address can be read here: https://berkspgl.org.uk/megs-address-at-pgc/
The Festive Board
Following the formal closure of the Provincial Grand Chapter, the Companions retired to the Festive Board to enjoy a veritable feast. The atmosphere was one of genuine warmth, vibrant cross-generational bonding, and fraternal harmony. The hospitality extended to honoured guests and local Companions alike provided the perfect conclusion to a memorable day.
Conclusion
The 2026 Annual Convocation perfectly demonstrated that the Royal Arch in Berkshire is in exceptionally good heart. Thanks to the meticulous planning of the Provincial Grand Scribe E, Bob Rance and the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, Paul Youngman and their respective teams, the entire day was delivered flawless precision. Companions departed with a renewed sense of pride in the Order, clarity regarding the strategic horizon, and a deepened commitment to the future of Royal Arch Masonry.
This marks my first post as Provincial Grand Communications Officer. I am immensely proud to carry this office and look forward to serving the Province and connecting with you all as we move forward together
Steve Rush
Provincial Grand Communication Officer
