A few of the Warwickshire brethren may have been looking at the weather forecast with some trepidation.  The annual Church Service was fast approaching and the weather apps were all suggesting that we may be due some rain!  The morning arrived and, sure enough, as some landed at Alderson House just in time for a shower, which lead one well-known brother to hurryingly put the roof back up on his wife’s convertible!  Thankfully, that was the last of any inclement weather and, as enjoyed over past years, the sun did indeed shine of the righteous.

Whilst members of the Provincial Choir under the superb direction of Chris Grove, – accompanied by our own musical maestro, Peter Summers, at the organ – were getting in some last-minute practice, members of the Provincial Grand Stewards’ Lodge were getting the church in order.  At the same time, many Warwickshire brethren and companions were enjoying a scrummy lunch at Alderson House and the Warwick Arms.  Once complete, the ladies were escorted up to the church whilst the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies and his team corralled those fortunate to be part of this year’s procession.  Chapter First Principals joined Worshipful Masters once again but this was the first year when Royal Arch Provincial Officers took part.

Heads of the other Orders added considerable colour to the occasion and we were also delighted to welcome representatives of both Staffordshire, including the newly-minted Provincial Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother Jeremy Roberts, and Worcestershire.  We were also honoured with the presence of the High Sheriff of Warwickshire, Susan Rasmussen, and Deputy Lieutenant David Kellham.  The ‘chain count’ was also increased by Pam Redford, Chair of the Warwickshire District Council, who was accompanying by her consort, husband Wallace; and the Mayor of Warwick, Simon Pargeter.

With the herding complete, the considerable procession heading out of the car park at Alderson House and made its way towards St Mary’s.  As always, it was a delight to see so many of the Warwickshire Masonic family make their way proudly wearing their regalia and pronouncing membership of our august institution.  Conducted with the usual pomp and ceremony for which Warwickshire can be duly pleased, the assembled throng made their way into the church and the service could begin.

Led by our Provincial Grand Chaplain, Revd Tim Boyns, and assisted by the vicar of St Mary’s, Revd Canon Angus Aagaard, they were once again joined by representatives of the Hindu, Sikh, Islamic, Jewish and Christian faiths.  The theme this year was Integrity which points to the challenge of uprightness, honesty and purity.  This was carefully weaved throughout the service, from the readings – excellently delivered by the Mark Provincial Grand Master, Andrew Armbrister; the Deputy Grand Superintendent, David Graham; and the Provincial Grand Master, Philip Hall – to the hymns and, of course, the address delivered in Tim’s inimitable style.  With several references to the Lodge of Integrity, the numerous members present denied any sponsorship of the Provincial Grand Chaplain!  As ever, with the most able assistance of Chris Grove and Peter Summers, the music led by the Provincial Choir added the cherry on top.  The service complete, the congregation followed the Provincial Grand Master and Julie out of the church and back into the world in which Integrity, along with our other core values, shows how Freemasonry can make a difference.