Tri-divisional meeting at Carlisle
Carlisle Masonic Hall was the setting for the biennial meeting of the three divisions in the north west of England. It was the turn of the Division of Cumbria to host the event under the auspices of Luguvalium Conclave No. 494. Luguvalium was the northernmost city of the Roman Empire situated within what is now Carlisle.
Making the journey to Carlisle were members from the Division of North and East Lancashire and the Division of West Lancashire. There were over 80 Knights in attendance for this special occasion.
Intendant-Generals Joe Sudhakar of Cumbria, Stephen Bolton of North and East Lancashire and Graham Williams of West Lancashire were amongst those witnessing the proceedings. Further dignitaries were present in the persons of two past Intendant-Generals, Keith Beaumont of Cumbria and Nigel Bramley-Howarth of North and East Lancashire both of whom hold the rank of Knight Commander of Constantine. In addition, making the journey from the far side of Hadrian’s Wall, was V. Ill. Kt. Mervyn McAleer the Intendant-General for the Division of Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway under the Scottish Constitution.
Carlisle proved a convenient venue as not only is it close to the M6 but the west coast railway mainline travels through the city meaning that those with access to stations in Lancashire could enjoy a relatively short and fast trip on one of the many Scotland bound trains with the walk to the venue on arrival taking only a few minutes.
The meeting was held in the morning with members and visitors alike being welcomed with a bacon sandwich and cup of coffee, although it was noted that some had had to decline the offer having stopped at the renowned Tebay Services on the M6 to enjoy one of their much vaunted full English breakfasts – well the weary traveller does need sustenance!
Before the opening of the meeting David Stewart, the Deputy I-G for Cumbria bade everyone a warm welcome.
David Bowden then took to the principal chair to open a Sanctuary of Knights of the Holy Sepulchre. The next business was to open a Commandery of Knights of St. John the Evangelist in order to install three candidates as Worthy Knights in that Order.
The candidates were Stephen Holcroft from North and East Lancashire, Billy Harrison from West Lancashire and Russell Caton from Cumbria.
The First Point was conferred by North and East Lancashire with Stephen being the principal candidate.
West Lancashire then took the reins for the Second Point with Billy Harrison being the main candidate.
David Bowden then took over as Commander to confer the Third Point with Russell being the main candidate.
All three Divisions played their part well with the ceremonies being delivered both accurately and with some style. The added pressure of representing your Division in front of other Divisions had no doubt played its part in ensuring that everyone gave of their best in presenting what was a delightful demonstration of the ritual.
Following the closing of the Commandery it was time to go from labour to refreshment. There was a chance to gather and meet with friends old and new prior to lunch being served. A three course meal, the menu being chicken, was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
The convivial atmosphere and buzz of happy conversation bore witness to the enjoyment of the occasion before, following the usual toasts and a parting word from David Stewart, it was time to depart.
