We are very fortunate to have a ProvGDC of such calibre as EComp Geoff Walker.  At the recent convocation of St Martin’s Chapter, his powers of recall were much in evidence, as there were no fewer than 22 Officers of Supreme Grand Chapter in attendance.  Earlier in the meeting, EComp Geoff delivered a superb proclamation to the recipient of the Grand Superintendent’s certificate recognising 50 years membership of the Holy Royal Arch.  Such a presentation is always special, but when the recipient is EComp Richard Wallis, a Past Grand Superintendent, it makes it all the more special and the proclamation much, much, much longer!  This explains the fantastic turnout of Grand Officers as well as the 14 acting Provincial Officers who also turned out to support such an eminent Freemason.

Well, no one was to be disappointed as it was truly a memorable evening.  The Grand Superintendent presented the certificate in the delightful Warwickshire way – a lovely chat with EComp Richard followed by the formal presentation of the certificate and the all-important lapel badge.  As with any such conversation, a skilled interviewer will ask the right questions and let the other party answer.  EComp Richard didn’t let us down and we were treated to a plethora of stories that can only come from a full Masonic life very well lived.  Indeed, the Grand Superintendent let slip that EComp Richard’s masonic CV was an incredible nine pages long.

EComp Richard thanked the Grand Superintendent most sincerely for the way in which he had presented his certificate and then congratulated EComp Geoff for what he thought was the most impressive proclamation that he’d ever heard and was most grateful, showing the humility of the man and the mason.

The meeting was then followed by some fizz before the assembled throng were treated to a delightful Festive Board.  The Severn Street fayre was excellent, the company most convivial and the toasts sincere.  The chapter obviously holds their MEZ in great regard as they presented him with a beautiful, engraved silver salver to mark his achievement.  They even supplied him with a suitable cloth to keep it sparkling!  Ever thoughtful, EComp Richard made a point of presenting EComp Ken Oliver, the chapter Scribe E, with a little something to thank him for organising his special evening.  The companions then left to make their way home, content in the knowledge that they had been witness to an extraordinary event and wondered what they would be doing in ten years time for EComp Richard’s 60th!

Here are a few pictures of what occurred after the Convocation was closed;

E. Comp Simon Grove