It has been a busy year for City Chapter No 2514, following two landmark events; the celebration of their centenary and for first principal David Codling, the personal celebration of fifty years membership of the Royal Arch.
David was ready again for the installation of the new principals, with all companions assembled at the Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool for the opening of the chapter. Assisted by second principal Derek Hedges and third principal David Edge, the chapter was opened in fine form under the expert guidance of director of ceremonies Roy Hedges.
Principal guest, Past Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals Colin Rowling, who is also a member of the chapter, accompanied by Gladstone Group Vice Chairman Matt Casson, were both formally welcomed to the chapter by David, and without further ado, the installation ceremony began.
Third principal elect, Andrew Prowse, was presented and performed his obligation with aplomb, the scene was set for an excellent ceremony. David Withey, delivered the prayers for a third principal in fine oratory style.
David Edge was then presented to Derek Hedges as second principal elect, and like Andrew before him, performed a faultless obligation, with Matt Casson delivering the prayers of a second principal in thundering fashion, the companions enthralled by Matt’s delivery.
It was now turn of Derek Hedges to be presented to David Codling, as first principal elect and again the obligation was superb, Colin Rowling rose to deliver the prayers of a first principal, completing a triplication of superb prayer recital that set the scene for a perfect installation ceremony.
Derek having been suitably installed as first principal, continued the ceremony installing both second principal David Edge and third principal Andrew Prowse respectively. Following the installation of the officers of the chapter, Colin rose to give his congratulations to first principal, Derek, and immediate past first principal, David on a wonderful ceremony conducted so well by both. Commenting that the work that had gone into producing such a splendid occasion was so obviously a team effort, and well done to everyone who had taken part.
Colin was then presented with a cheque to honour the charities, which with Derek’s permission he read out to all companions, which was for £200 for the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity. Colin thanked the chapter companions for their generosity.
Colin was asked to present to two newly exalted companions, Neil Harnick and Arthur White, their Grand Chapter certificates. Colin took great delight in explaining the symbolism and meanings of the certificates, which was both enthusing and informative, also presenting both with a written interpretation to accompany his explanation. With tongue-in-cheek he may at his discretion test them on their knowledge of the certificates at the next meeting!
With the certificates signed and congratulations given, it was time for the chapter to be closed, and the companions and guests retired to Crompton’s restaurant for the festive board. The distinctive delta shaped table is a constant feature of City Chapter’s festive board and once all companions were seated, the evening continued.
At the festive board, Colin spoke about a wonderful evening of ceremony, friendship and obvious camaraderie around the table during the evening and congratulated again the three principals on the occasion of 101 years of the chapter’s history. First principal Derek, also commented that he was honoured to be principal of the chapter again, thanking David Codling for all his hard work not only in the last year, but over the many years in support of the chapter and that he was grateful for their close friendship, and the support of the chapter in his year as first principal, indeed he was looking forward to the year ahead in service of City Chapter.