Colne Chapter celebrate Terry Nicholson achieving 50-years in the Royal Arch

The celebration of a veteran member and the newest member completing his entry process

The ‘Archway effect’ is gaining momentum in Essex

Chapters are becoming more confident as their experience of Archway increases

A rare occurrence for the Royal Arch in Essex

Field Promotion for Ian Watson to Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies

Every Essex candidate can have the best possible Exaltation

A new companion's Exaltation is reinforced tenfold when ritual is of the highest standard.

Braintree Royal Arch Masons celebrate 100 years of the Chapter of St Mary

80 members and distinguished guests at Chapter meeting and banquet celebrate significant milestone

The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent addresses the Annual Convocation

A strong recognition of support and thanks for the hard work being undertaken by the Province

Essex First Principals Chapter Install new First Principal

Increased focus on communication as Royal Arch Masonry moves into its third century

A taste of Essex and the spirit of Royal Arch Masonry fills Freemasons Hall

The Annual Convocation of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Essex at the Grand Temple

The Paras create a first in the history of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Essex

A Pegasean passion receives rapturous applause at Freemasons’ Hall as Col (retired) Andrew Jackson addresses Companions

50 years of service celebrated at the Earl of Warwick Chapter No. 2504

Ken Elmes, a Past Assistant Grand Sojourner and the Second Provincial Grand Principal in 2003 celebrates 50 years service

The PGC of Essex Annual Convocation is on 21st Sept 2023

Russell Race DL, the ME 2ndGP, and Col Andrew Jackson (Ret’d) CEO of ‘Support Our Paras’ are the principal guests.

Essex Royal Arch Masons SUPPORT OUR PARAS

Col (ret’d) Andrew Jackson lands solid support at the Colchester Combined Chapters Convocation

Why did I join the Royal Arch? – A personal view by Tony Terry

Tony Terry of Patriotic Chapter No. 51 shares why he joined the Royal Arch - and why he stayed

Essex Royal Arch Presentation Team and “Talking Heads”

The Essex Royal Arch Presentation Team can present "Talking Heads" at your Lodge meeting

Victorian Chapter meets Professor Chris Booth to learn more about CHAPS

CHAPS talk a huge success at Victorian Chapter and a cheque for £500 goes to a truly worthwhile cause

Canute Chapter celebrates its Centenary Meeting

Centenary Meeting celebrates all that is good about the Royal Arch and in fine style

Seven Kings Chapter reach Platinum status whilst still expanding

Seven Kings Chapter now 118 years old yet still expanding and showing the way

Sowing the seeds of a Supreme Grand Chapter – Part 1

Read about this unique 'international' collaboration helping Romania establish its own 'Grand Chapter'

Essex Chapter No. 276 – Celebrates being 175 years old

Celebrating their 175 year anniversary and also holding a special place in Essex Royal Arch Freemasonry

Meeting of Combined Chapters of Central Essex

The enjoyment of Combined Chapter meetings and their importance in bringing Companions together

Essex First Principals Chapter witness a unique demonstration of Olde

Discover more with the Essex First Principals Chapter No. 3256 and the Royal Arch in 1750

Chingford Masonic Centre hold a Combined Cluster Convocation

Over 50 attend a Combined Cluster Convocation held at Chingford Masonic Hall.

St Chad Chapter No. 3115 Marks two Milestones

St Chad Chapter celebrated with a beloved Companion as well as a return of some property.

Prittlewell Chapter ‘Old’ but still going ‘Strong’

A settlement was first recorded 10,000 years ago at Prittle Brook. This hamlet slowly grew and developed through the Roman occupation...

Southend Royal Arch Masons Celebrate 75 Years and raise £2,400 for Charity

Over 100 Essex Freemasons met at a special meeting in January to celebrate St Philip Chapter 75th Anniversary 

Freemasons Supporting ‘Scotty’s Little Soldiers’ with £4,000

Colchester Royal Arch Companions of Abbeygate Chapter No. 4219, raised £2,000 for ‘Scotty’s Little Soldiers,’

Essex Freemasons make up the difference for new charity Minibus

Essex Freemasons have given £24,000 to help Essex based charity Headway Essex raise enough money to buy a vital new minibus. 

Royal Arch Masons Awarded Top Marks by 20 out of 20 Primary Schools

The Provincial Grand Master of Essex Freemasons, Paul Tarrant, is also the Grand Superintendent of the Royal Arch Masons in Essex

Two Clacton Freemasons Fire Walk for Saint Helena Hospice Twice!

Alan Penney (left) and Alex Willis, both of Colvin Lodge 5374 which meets at Clacton on Sea, recently walked on ‘Hot Coals' to raise over £600

Stewards of Pure Ancient Masonry A Daily Advancement

For many of us who are members of the Royal Arch, we can sometimes question why we become companions of this Order. 

Successful Red Table Meeting at Frederick Leistikow Chapter No. 9143

John Crudgington, the Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals (APGP) for Frederick Leistikow Chapter No. 9143 which meets at Maldon Masonic Hall 

United Grand Lodge of England - Press Statement

Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the United Grand Lodge of England have issued a Press Statement 

Surprise Presentation for Companion in the USA

Michael J Ramos a Brother and Companion, from across the pond and a great anglophile is well known to many around the Province

Easterford marks contribution to the 2022 Festival

The Provincial Grand Master, Paul Tarrant (PGM) in a private capacity visited Easterford Lodge 2342 received a ceremonial cheque for £53,500.

Saffron Walden Masonic Hall ‘House of Jewels’

In the afternoon of Saturday the 10th July 1999 the Masonic Hall in Saffron Walden was destroyed by a horrendous fire 

A Centenary and a Banner dedication at United chapter

After 2 cancelled meetings in 2022 the Companions of United Chapter were able to celebrate their Centenary and dedicate their banner.

Déjà vue for John Jones 50 years a Royal Arch Mason

John Jones attended his Thames Mouth Chapter 6994, in what he thought was to be a normal meeting but, this was to be far from the truth 

How a bird box helped a Ukranian family

Brian Cattermole, as a hobby, makes bird boxes which he donates or raffles for charity.

Voices and Companionship in Perfect Harmony

On St George’s Day, on behalf of Essex Provincial Grand Chapter, the Deputy Grand Superintendent (DepGSupt) Elliott Chevin presented a 50th Certificate.

Harlow Meets Harlow and another First for Essex

As news-stories about ‘meeting for the first time since before lockdown’ have run their course, some fine accounts are emerging of Essex Companions 

Mistley RA Chapter...25 and counting anniversary

Mistley Chapter recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with a visit from our APGP, E Comp John Crudgington PGStB

75th Anniversary Meeting for Monkhams Chapter No 4161

Monkhams Chapter No 4161 celebrated its 75th Anniversary Meeting at the Harlow Masonic Centre, which had been delayed a year

Abbots Hall Move to the Next Chapter after Lockdown

The April Installation meeting of Abbots Hall Chapter No. 6205 saw the Companions put the Lockdown period of their history behind them

The Armed Forces Covenant - What does it mean?

The Armed Forces Covenant: What Is It and What Does It Mean to Essex Freemasons?

Meet The New Provincial Grand Charity Steward

From his beginnings in Dagenham, Chris Hicks left university as a scientist after studying biology with microbiology,

Charity work does not stop once a Festival ends

A Message from Essex’s New Provincial Grand Charity Steward, Chris Hicks after a very successful Festival 2022

Earl of Wessex & Duke of Kent to celebrate Duke of Edinburghs Award

More than 30,000 young people with disabilities and special educational needs (SEND) will be able to do their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Truly the Chapter of Stedfast Unity really did live up to their name

The February meeting of the Chapter of Stedfast Unity really did live up to their name. Despite some Officers being unavailable

Le Soken Royal Arch Chapter: A Year Late, but Worth the Wait!

Le Soken Royal Arch Chapter, which meets at Kirby Cross, had been planning to celebrate their 75th anniversary

Tabula Rotunda call in the 'A' team after not had any Exaltees for a few years

Having not had any Exaltees for a few years, and like buses, they found themselves in the happy position of having two for their meeting.

Stanford-le-Hope Chapter 75th Anniversary - Let's Draw a Veil Over That

On Saturday 12th February 2022, Stanford-le-Hope Chapter celebrated its 75th Anniversary, just a year late.

John Jones “A True Companion” 50 Years A Royal Arch Mason

Southend to witness a salute and presentation to John Jones for his 50 years in the Royal Arch

Abbeygate Chapter: Code for Success at Abbeygate Chapter

Companions of Abbeygate Chapter have worked hard not only to achieve Festival 2022 Patron status but also in building-up the Convocation

Liberty of Havering Chapter: Triple Tau – Chapter of Success

On Thursday 3rd February 2022, Liberty of Havering Chapter No. 1437 carried out a rarely seen triple Exaltation at Upminster Masonic Centre.

Waltham Abbey Chapter on the Up! First Convocation

The Companions of Waltham Abbey Chapter No 2750, held their first Convocation in 2022 on Tuesday 25th January

The Earl of Warwick Lodge: Ken Elmes 50th Anniversary

The Brethren of The Earl of Warwick Lodge No. 2504 were delighted to welcome Martin Howse, their Assistant Provincial Grand Master (APGM) 

A Christmas message from the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent

Christmas is near, a time of traditions, storytelling, and reflection. All three are bound up in Charles Dickens’ wonderful story A Christmas Carol.

Paul Humphrey: A Living Legend Remembers Rodney

One of the most heartfelt personal tributes about the late Rodney Bass was made to the Brethren at the Greyfriers Lodge Installation Meeting 

Abbots Hall Chapter: The Root, Heart and Marrow of Masonry

Abbots Hall Chapter No. 6205 is back in business. It was Consecrated in December 1948, the year when the cheese ration was cut but the milk ration

Newly arrived Afghans given essential supplies thanks to Freemasons

More than 15,000 people evacuated from Afghanistan are receiving basic necessities such as food, clothing and baby milk from the British Red Cross

Essex Freemasons helping PICC Pals make medical history

A group of 15 Southend based volunteers are helping to make medical history that has turned into a cottage industry and a potential life saver

A 100-Year Chapter with a 100-Year Companion

Congratulations were conveyed by Centenarian Victor Matthew Crowley to his fellow Royal Arch Companions at Westcliff Chapter No. 2903

Historical, Mystical and Symbolical Westcliff Chapter Centennial

The Chapter Centennial Celebratory Convocation was held on 3rd November 2021 in Southend

Paul Tarrant pleased to Consecrate the Chapter of XV

The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, Paul Tarrant was pleased to Consecrate the Chapter of XV, the first rugby based Chapter

It’s Great at Grey Friars Chapter No. 5169, 315th regular Convocation

The designated Companion to be the primus First Principal had to stand down because he was appointed as the Provincial Grand Superintendent

Essex Hinge of Friendship Chapter ‘Return in Style’

Essex Hinge of Friendship Chapter No 9296, based at Hutton, returned to their October meeting in style.

When You’re Smiling: Steve Nottage was invested with the British Empire Medal

Steve Nottage was invested with the British Empire Medal which was presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE

Nore Give More! Congratulated by the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent

In the spirit of being a beacon of light helping those in distress, Nore Chapter No 3610 has been congratulated by the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent

Jeff Cripps PPSGW 50 Years in Freemasonry

Deputy Provincial Grand Master (DepProvGM) Nick Franklin was delighted to present Jeff Cripps with a Certificate to commemorate his 50 years

Essex Royal Arch Masons Getting Back on Track

Kirby Masonic Hall hosted the Installation Convocation of Essex First Principals Chapter No 3256 on Thursday 23rd September 2021 

Essex Freemasons fund eyes on the sea to help save lives

New state of the art CCTV cameras will ensure that eyes will always be on the sea looking out for people in distress and saving lives

British Red Cross supported by Braintree Masonic Centre

Essex Freemasons jumped into action and assisted the British Red Cross (BRC) Afghan Crisis Appeal by providing basic essentials

Freemasons donate £1140 to Maldon Saints Youth Football Club

Maldon Masonic Lodges join in and support Maldon Saints YFC appeal for funding to purchase Defibrillators 

Teamwork makes the dream work, first Province to meet approval of UGLE

Under the leadership of Peter Low and the hard work of his Team, on 21st August 2021 Essex was the first Province to meet approval of UGLE

Essex Provincial Grand Stewards Golf Day, South Essex Golf Club

The eagerly awaited Provincial Grand Stewards Golf Day finally took place at the South Essex Golf Club on Friday 31st July 2021.

Provincial Grand Chapter accounts - year ending 30th June 2021

The Provincial Grand Chapter accounts for the year ending 30th June 2021 are now available

The Finishing Line is in Sight! But will it be for £5 or 6 Million?

Charity representatives of the 300 plus lodges in Essex attended the Provincial Charity Stewards Conference: Saturday 14th August 2021 

A ‘Freedom Day’ Exaltation: Victorian Chapter No. 2184

‘Freedom Day’ Exaltation, 19th July 2021, the first meeting for 18 months with thirty-five members and visitors in attendance. 

A Foot Soldier and Stalwart for Freemasonry

E Comp Brian Heasman - Fifty Years and Upwards - On the Front Line, proposed Chapter of XV.

Illumination across the board at Provincial Grand Stewards Chapter

At the meeting of the Provincial Grand Stewards Chapter on July 26, those lucky enough to be attendance, along with most of the Provincial Executive

Ixion Chapter 2501: It was certainly worth the wait!

With restrictions lifted Ixion Chapter 2501 were finally able to hold a Convocation, on the 24th July, to celebrate the significant achievement

The Royal Arch - Back To Basics: Gerald Reilly

For all those non-researchers among us who often wonder about the history of the ritual we use today 

A New Chapter For An Essex Mason: Club historian for West Ham United

One of the most experienced Freemasons in Essex is about to begin an exciting new chapter. Taking over as the club historian for West Ham United

Making a day of it for NHS frontline workers

Many dignitaries celebrating NHS, Social Care and Frontline Worker’s Day at local masonic centres across Essex.

A Sparkling Achievement! Earlham Lodge No. 7266

On behalf of the Chapter, Charity Steward Graham Verby receives the Fest22 Platinum Award from Third Provincial Grand Principal Elliott Chevin

NHS, social care and frontline workers celebration day – 5th July 2021

Essex Freemasons celebrate the work and dedication of the NHS, social care and frontline workers

Essex Freemasons donate £30,000 to support vital service for visually impaired

Essex Freemasons have donated £30,000 to independent sight loss charity Southend in Sight

Carli Lansley Foundation Donation from Saxon Hall

Chapter 2717 have donated £100.00: Continued community support & engagement from Saxon Hall

Royal Arch: The Desire of Improving in Freemasonry

Every candidate for the Royal Arch (RA) must confirm he has a desire to improve in Freemasonry.

The Essex 500 INSPIRE Challenge: Best story submitted by a Lodge and Chapter

The best story submitted by a Lodge and Chapter during the month of July will each win £500 for their chosen charity 

The Royal Arch, The Cyrus Proclamation and Masonic Knowledge

The Royal Arch is a means of providing advancement in Masonic knowledge and experience which can be enhanced further by exploring sources

Many Companions are Getting Ready to Get Ready

For many Companions the further easing of restrictions on 17th May 2021 will seem like an opportunity to return from exile.

Teddies for Loving Care celebrates 20 years

On 12th March 2001 a unique scheme was launched by Essex Freemasons. Teddies for medical staff to give to children to help relieve their distress.

In his 84th year, Never Too Late to Become A Freemason

Bro Voltaire proved it is never too late to become a Freemason by being Initiated and made an Entered Apprentice of the Lodge of the Nine Sisters

The Story of how, the Enigma of The Royal Arch

The story of ‘How that which was lost is discovered’, the HRA gives great pleasure to almost everyone who has taken the ‘Fourth Independent Step"

Essex 500 Shoebox Challenge: Time is running out!

Time is running out if you have yet to register for the Essx500 SHOEBOX Challenge.

12 Million Steps for Muscular Dystrophy: A total of 12,378,321 steps

In the eight days from 23rd to 30th December 2020, 112 Essex Freemasons stepped up to the plate for the Provincial ‘500 Step Challenge’.

Southend’s freemasonry centre, Saxon Hall Vaccination Centre

Southend’s freemasonry centre, Saxon Hall, in Aviation Way, opened its doors last week for use as a vaccination centre in the battle against Covid19.

Every Essex Freemason, Companions Helping Companions

Every Essex Freemason has contributed one way or another to the Covid-19 Project of the United Grand Lodge and the Masonic Charitable Foundation. 

Combined Chapters of Central Essex give to the Festival 2022 Appeal

The Deputy Grand Superintendent In Charge, E.Comp. Nick Franklin, was recently presented with a cheque for £1000 

2nd October: Provincial Grand Chapter Tribute

For the first time, the Provincial Grand Chapter of Essex was held at Chingford Masonic Hall on Friday, the 2nd of October. 

The Late W Bro Alan John Everard PSGD, PAPGM

Worshipful Brother Alan died peacefully in the morning of 23 September 2020 after a period of not being well, with his family by his side.

First Rising - the official newsletter for members of the UGLE

Welcome to the fifth edition of First Rising – the official newsletter for members of United Grand Lodge of England.

Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF), The Freemasons’ Charity

Three major grants awarded by the MCF, the Freemasons’ charity, helping to improve the lives of thousands affected by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. 

Women Freemasons have been meeting across the country for over 100 years.

There are two female-only Grand Lodges: The Order of Women Freemasons and HFAF – Freemasonry for Women

Discoveries from the treasures of English Freemasonry

The Grand Master’s throne with a carved framework of gilt lime wood, flanked by a pair of Doric columns.

The District Grand Lodge of East Africa during the pandemic

We are delighted to share news of the charitable activity undertaken by the District Grand Lodge of East Africa during the pandemic.

UGLE Webinar with John Dickie

We are delighted to announce that author John Dickie will be joining us for an exclusive webinar to discuss his new book: 'The Craft - How Freemasons Made The Modern World'.

Proud of our History: Testimonials - UGLE Website

Freemasons across England, Wales, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are proud of their 300 year history of helping those in need.

Covid-19 Update: Rule of Six

Brethren, you should today receive a letter from Grand Lodge informing you that the Rule of Six changes to the Covid-19 regulations

Rodney Lister Bass: A Province in Mourning

Companions, as we are currently a Province in Mourning, we thought that we would share this tribute with you, when we all showed our respect

Masonic Dining in England during Covid restrictions

Donald Taylor, Director of Legal Services at UGLE, answers some common questions about Masonic dining in England during Covid restrictions.
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