The December convocation for the members of the Chapter of Vigilance, who meet in Darlington, wasn’t the usual business meeting that they have become accustomed to for their last meeting of the calendar year. Nick Taylor, Most Excellent Zerubbabel, was delighted to welcome on behalf of the members a deputation of Provincial Officers led by the Grand Superintendent, John Paul Thompson.
Having welcomed the Provincial team, the officers of the chapter then carried out an exaltation ceremony where they welcomed their newest member, Companion Manos Damigos. The exaltation ceremony was also enhanced from the norm, as part of an ongoing Durham Province initiative to add more theatre, Owen Guy-Fisher joined in with the officers of the lodge. Owen took the role of principal sojourner for part of the ceremony which intensified the experience for all companions in general, but most especially for Companion Manos who thoroughly enjoyed his first step in Royal Arch Freemasonry.
John later commented that the exaltation set the bar very high which reflected the hard work and efforts that all those involved with the ceremony had gone to. On behalf of the chapter members Nick presented John with a cheque for £100 towards the Durham Freemasons Charity as well as a cheque for £100 towards TLC Teddies. Members and visitors enjoyed the festive board downstairs which was a turkey free zone. The evening concluded with a generous raffle followed by the Janitor’s toast, having had a good night by all.
