Congratulations Most Excellent – Excellent Companion Howard Ford

The Adair chapter October meeting was a very happy occasion. Everyone was in good spirits, especially those companions appointed to office, and in particular the new Most Excellent First Principal, Howard Ford.

Excellent companion John Bennet and his outgoing team opened the chapter, welcomed excellent companion Andrew Clapp, who was representing the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, Ray Guthrie, and then proceeded with the business of the chapter. Sadly the first item of business was to receive a Eulogy for excellent companion  Arthur Marrow, who passed to the Grand Lodge above back in June. Arthur was a staunch supporter of Adair and other Chapters, a perfect gentleman, and lovely and engaging man who will be greatly missed.

Having heard the Eulogy, the chapter stood in respect of departed merit, and then the Principals got on with the main item of business, to Invest excellent companion Howard Ford as Zerubbabel, and to induct excellent companion John Holman as Haggai and excellent companion Glyn Derrick as Joshua.

John Bennett did what John does best, and installed Howard into the 1st Principals chair with his usual style and flair. Next, Howard, who had patently been working hard on the ritual, inducted John Holman into the 2nd Principals chair with great confidence and clarity. This left John Holman to instal Glyn, which he also did is a distinct and self-confident way. Congratulations to all four companions for such well-rehearsed ritual, and on your appointments to the Principals of the Chapter. 

Officers of the chapter were then appointed and invested, and excellent companion Andy Clapp then gave a near perfect presentation of the address to the Principals.

The new team, having completed the installation, then asked excellent companion Andy Clapp to present Companion Matin Brooks with his Grand Chapter Certificate, which he did with the greatest of pleasure.

The Festive Board was as usual completely delicious, and the dining room was full of lively conversation and laughter.