Albert Lucking Chapter hold final meeting prior to relocating to Romania
Albert Lucking Chapter hold their last meeting on UK soil before relocating to Romania in the ongoing International Romanian project
On Wednesday 29th October, at the Southend Masonic Centre, Albert Lucking Chapter No. 2717, held their last Convocation on UK soil, ahead of the Chapter's transfer to Romania, which is expected to occur in the early part of next year.
Today’s schedule was for three separate ceremonies of exaltation conducted by the Romanian officers and overseen by the Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals (APGP) Jim Wolfe and the Essex Royal Arch Support and Presentation Team.
However, hasty improvisation was needed as the minibus conveying many Romanian Companions from Luton Airport to Southend, was stationary in miles of traffic, following a collision on the M25. Members of the Essex team readily stood in for the main officers and as two of the Romanian candidates had flown in via Stansted arriving in good time, a ceremony was able to take place.
A little later than planned the weary group from Luton Airport finally arrived and taking their respective roles were instrumental in carrying out two further successful ceremonies.
The meeting was also honoured with the presence of Dennis Baum. Third Provincial Grand Principal (3PGP), together with George Lambeth APGP.
Some 40 sat down to dine in a very convivial Festive Board although time constraints had forced some of the formalities to take place here and these included Dennis Baum belatedly, welcoming the Exaltees into the Essex Province of the Royal Arch and the Albert Lucking Chapter, by presenting them all with a personal welcoming letter from the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, Paul Tarrant and a Royal Arch Chapter tie. He also went on to welcome Andi Gaiu, a joining member and the First Principals father.
Dennis Baum also commended the Romanian officers for their skilful and dedicated performance of the Royal Arch ritual, especially since it is not in their native language. He also recognised Mike Steptoe, a founding member present and who like himself attended the Chapter’s consecration in 1985 and further proclaimed his honour, at being at its final meeting. The only other surviving founder member, Robert Hadlow-Mount, was unable to attend.
The last three years have been eventful and at times intensive, as the Provincial Grand Chapter of Essex worked internationally to help the Grand Lodge of Romania set up its own Supreme Grand Chapter. Now, with the process nearing completion, the Albert Lucking Chapter and the Epping Forest Chapter by relocating to Romania will help finalise the project.
Due praise must be afforded to the Essex Royal Arch Support and Presentation Team under the guidance of Jim Wolfe, for their tireless, dedication and support during the entire process.
A job well done…
A few of the earlier stories regarding this project can been seen by clicking these links.
https://www.essexfreemasons.org.uk/news/romania-init
https://www.essexfreemasons.org.uk/news/ra/rom-001
Photos:
Top: Members and guests with sitting L-R Dennis Baum 3PGP, Five Exaltees, Jim Wolfe APGP, George Lambeth APGP
Left: Dennis Baum after welcoming the new exaltees and joining member
Right: Selection of photos from the Festive Board
Further photos can be viewed on the Albert Lucking Lodge website under Chapter news…
