It has been a busy Masonic season for the companions of University Chapter of Liverpool No 4274, with the last couple of meetings consisting of double exaltations. It was no surprise therefore to receive a copy of the summons for the next meeting from the scribe Ezra, Alan Moore for the next order of business, being another double exaltation, making it six new candidates in a single season!
All Masons who take the step and become a member of the fantastic Royal Arch to complete their Masonic journey are to be celebrated, and the companions of the chapter were particularly looking forward to celebrating the joining of two members from University Lodge of Liverpool No 4274, as members of the chapter. Particularly as both are past masters of the lodge, Krisjan Cooper and Liam Buchanan.
It has been a dual Masonic journey for Krisjan and Liam, in that both were initiated into Freemasonry on the same night. Passed and raised at the same time and have followed each other through the offices of the lodge on the ladder, both becoming master of University Lodge of Liverpool, one year after the other.
In recognition of his contribution to Masonry, Krisjan was appointed as an acting Provincial Grand Steward at Provincial Grand Lodge in 2022, and so it was fitting to hear that Liam has also been recognised and will be appointed as an acting Provincial Grand Steward at Provincial Grand Lodge 2023. So, it came as no further surprise that they would be exalted in a double ceremony into Royal Arch Masonry.
The assembled companions were called to order for the opening of the chapter, having first been welcomed by first principal John Gibson, second principal Matt Casson, and third principal David Waring. The running of the chapter being expertly guided by director of ceremonies, Michael Jones.
Having opened the chapter in due form, and with the ballot proving unanimous in favour, the exaltation was to begin. Assistant sojourners, Wayne Warwick and Philip Farrar, were excellent in conducting their charges and presenting the two candidates to the chapter. Principal sojourner Adam Lindop, who had conducted himself superbly in the last couple of exaltation ceremonies was unfortunately unable to attend and at short notice Rob Burgess stood in.
The three sojourners were superb and their command of ritual was second to none, which made for a very enjoyable ceremony. The two exaltees were treated to a wonderful ceremony which was executed with flair and made the whole event a very pleasant one indeed to observe. In pride of place was the wooden archway which had been made by the fair hand of scribe Ezra, Alan Moore, and was freshy painted in grey, and with silver lettering looked very impressive.
The three principals all played an equal part, completing the ceremony of exaltation, and the icing on the cake was in the capable hands of Rob Burgess, who again delivered a very impressive recital of the mystical signs of a Royal Arch Mason.
With the business of the chapter concluded, it was closed in due form and the companions and guests retired to the fine dining room at the Athenaeum to continue the celebration of exaltation at the festive board. Following the customary toasts, the two newly made Royal Arch Masons were congratulated, both Krisjan and Liam, taking turns to say how pleased they were to have joined such a wonderful chapter, amongst friends, and they were looking forward to being active members of the chapter. Both were rightfully applauded and this being the last meeting of the season, the future looks very bright for the chapter with an exciting year ahead.
