WELCOME BACK!
On Wednesday 1st September 2021, some 40 companions joined together for one of the first meetings of any Royal Arch Chapter since the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in August, to witness the Installation of three new Principals of the High Barnet First Principals Chapter. E Comp John Linley, Past Provincial Grand Scribe E was inducted into the First Principals chair, E Comp David Hampton, Deputy Grand Superintendent, was inducted into the Second Principals chair and E Comp Keith Piggott PPGSN, was inducted into the Third Principals chair. The Officers of the year were proclaimed by the Principals whilst the Chapter remained COVID secure throughout the proceedings.
The Companions dined after the meeting in a very convivial manner with much banter and good camaraderie throughout the occasion. The Deputy Grand Superintendent addressed the Companions, welcoming them back to Royal Arch Masonry in general and the Chapter in particular, outlining the plans for COVID safe practices in Chapters and asked the Companions to contact those who may still be vulnerable within their own Chapters, to encourage them to return when they feel comfortable to do so. The Deputy Grand Superintendent also highlighted the activity of the Executive, who had been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic albeit via Zoom meetings and emails and talked about the initiatives that had started pre-lockdown, which would again be resurrected in the coming months, when as near normal activity is resumed.
A wonderful occasion that was enjoyed by all those in attendance and “it was great to be back”