At the St Martin’s Royal Arch Chapter No 4011 September meeting, a historic and most memorable celebration occurred of 50 years since E Comp Michael Spencer P Prov GSN had been exalted into Royal Arch masonry. Michael had already received his 50-year certificates in Craft and Mark, so this certificate completed the big three, which does not occur as often as some might think.
The honour of presenting the certificate, due to other commitments, was delegated by the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent to the 2nd Provincial Grand Principal, Nigel Hawkins, and the Provincial GDC James Freakley.
Being the third of the three certificate presentations there was inevitably concerns by the Provincial Team regarding repetition. E Comp Michael as the ultimate freemason, we all know him to be, however wowed everyone present with his personal reflections without hesitation, repetition or indeed deviation and for much longer than just a minute.
The Provincial DC’s long proclamation to Michael was as flawless and inspirational as ever. Indeed, the festive board was reached seemingly without a pause, where the festivities continued apace.
The meeting was supported by a plethora of very senior masons in many orders which indicated once again, if it was necessary, the high esteem and affection in which E Comp Michael is universally held. The meeting ended with everyone vowing to repeat the big three treble in ten years’ time.