Provincial Meetings

On a warm, very warm, and sunny day in Lampeter, brethren from the three counties and beyond attend Provincial Grand Chapter and Provincial Grand Lodge at the University of Wales Trinity St David, Lampeter in West Wales. The morning session representing the scarlet and blue of Royal Arch, with the afternoon session Craft Masonry.

We were honoured by visiting dignitaries from around the regional group and beyond, however there was one very notable and familiar face missing; The Provincial Grand Master of South Wales, R.W.Bro. D. Gerald Rowbottom who suddenly and sadly passed to the great lodge above just days before. All those in attendance held a moments silence in quiet contemplation of a man held in great affection in the West and he will be sadly missed by the brethren of the province.

Head of West Wales Freemasons and the Provincial Grand Superintendent A. James Ross opened Grand Chapter, to make numerous first appointments and promotions. However, there were two very notable appointments to be made. Excellent Companion Phil Jones became the Deputy Grand Superintendent, along with Excellent Companion Robert Smith becoming Third Principal. Of course, these two promotions mean that Excellent Companion David Rayson and Excellent Companion Gary Hicks, step down from their positions, both being thanked for their contributions to the province.

After a delightful lunchtime Festive Board, the afternoon session saw attention turn to Provincial Grand Lodge, where W. Bro. Noel Davies and W. Bro. Martin Marks were promoted to Provincial Grand Senior Warden and Provincial Grand Junior Warden. Both with long histories as Director of Ceremony for their own lodges and the province, it is fair to say that expectations are even slightly higher than usual for the forthcoming masonic year.

Once again, a huge congratulations to all the brethren and Companions who received appointments and promotions. All of which are thoroughly well deserved and recognise the outstanding contributions and dedication shown by its members.