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 convocation of the Colne Chapter No. 2477 held at Wivenhoe Masonic Hall on the 7th March 2024 although considered a general meeting was for Terry Nicholson a highly significant event, as on the exact day 50 years ago he was exalted into the Chapter.
Since then, being a regular attendee and actively involved with the Chapter, becoming the First Principal during 1987, it was a surprise that, David Wilson, Second Provincial Grand Principal (2ndProvGP), attended to present Terry with his 50-year certificate in recognition of his contribution to the Royal Arch in Essex and Suffolk as well as the Colne Chapter.
Terry in expressing his thanks addressed the companions and spoke about his masonic career as well as his working life. He included a very interesting comparison with Masonry 50 years ago that in 1974 initiates were more likely to be aged 40 years and over rather than today’s 30 years and over.
The current First Principal, James Mitchell then, ably assisted by his officers demonstrated an Exaltation ceremony with the recent Exaltee, Johnathan Bartlett, acting as the candidate, which gave him a better understanding of the ceremony.
The 2ndProvGP was then delighted to present Johnathan with his Supreme Grand Chapter certificate providing him will a full and detailed explanation of its significance and the many features.
Later the 2ndProvGP said, “I was honoured, that in this one meeting to recognise a member with a long service award whilst welcoming the newest member. The future of the Province and each Chapter rests upon our newest Exaltees and we must ensure they are given the space to learn and understand our order, so they too can carry the torch for future generations.”
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Top: Johnathan and Terry proudly displaying their certificates.
