After
the formation of the Setantia Lodge of Installed Masters
a number of Royal Arch Masons suggested that a Royal
Arch Chapter of Installed First Principals should be
formed in order to continue the friendships made during
their year in office and to further the interest in Royal
Arch Masonry.
The
first meeting to discuss the formation of the Chapter
was held on Friday 21st November 1975. Thirty two Companions
signed the attendance register but there were others
present. Sixty potential Founders were identified but
it was hoped that 72 would be on the Petition. The actual
number listed on the Petition was 73. This petition
was submitted to Setantia Lodge of Installed Masters
at their meeting on 31 January 1996. Their consent was
given and the Petition was presented to Grand Chapter,
(through Provincial Grand Chapter), in April 1976. This
was approved by Grand Chapter at the meeting in April
1976.
The
date of 30th November 1976 was selected by the Grand
Superintendent, E Comp Sir Knowles Edge, Bt, as the date
for the Consecration. The Chapter of Unanimity No 113
had already given their assent for the use of the Regalia
and Furnishings. By May 1976 the proposed Crest for
use on stationary had been approved by Grand Chapter.
The
first Three Principals of the Chapter were:-
E Comp
S H Hunt PAGSoj MEZ
E Comp
P P Paul PAGSoj H
E Comp
K E Moxley PAGSoj J
E Comp
A F Ferris GDC was IPZ.
Since
the Consecration the Chapter has continued to meet twice
a year on the first Thursday in May (Installation) and
the second Monday in November. At this latter meeting
we have an eminent lecturer, usually from outside the
area, who is well versed in matters concerning the Royal
Arch.
Our
year end is 31May and our current subscription is £17
with a joining fee of £1.
Visitors
below the rank of First Principal are very welcome.
The
membership at present is about 135 and composed of many
distinguished Craft and Chapter members as well as those
who have only just been installed as First Principal.
Should
anyone be interested in joining the Chapter they should
contact:-
E Comp
E C Williams PGStdBr
Scribe
E
Invergordon
3
Queens Drive
Fulwood
Preston
PR2
9YH
e-mail: cwilliams.setantia@amserve.net
