Royal Cumberland Chapter Bounces Back
After a fallow period of a few years, during which the very raison d’être and individuality of the Chapter was reassessed, a gratifying sense of optimism was evident at their recent Installation meeting in Bath.
Companion Chris was Installed as First Principal, Roger as Second and Vince as Third, in a Ceremony well executed by all involved and skillfully orchestrated by the Director of Ceremonies, Companion Graham.
Chris, who is currently Senior Warden of St Alphege Lodge transferred from Hotspur Lodge and Ridley Chapter, in Newcastle Upon Tyne, via the Universities Scheme and has certainly proved to be a very welcome and able member of his new Lodge and Chapter.
He already plans to Exalt his father, into the Chapter in February next year and there are another two candidates to follow; with the expectation that their compatriots will soon realise what they are missing!
His only regret is that his friend and mentor from Newcastle, Gerard Ritchie, who died in December 2020 was not there to witness his installation: however, it would be reassuring to think that Gerard might be looking down on proceedings with a sense of pride.
As the oldest Chapter in Somerset, with a strong sense of tradition but willingness to adopt changes where necessary, they are now well placed to flourish under the new management team.
