Provincial Grand Chapter ofProvincial Grand Chapter ofProvincial Grand Chapter ofProvincial Grand Chapter of

Royal Arch MasonsRoyal Arch MasonsRoyal Arch MasonsRoyal Arch Masons

of Buckinghamshireof Buckinghamshireof Buckinghamshireof Buckinghamshire

ANNUAL CONVOCATIONANNUAL CONVOCATIONANNUAL CONVOCATIONANNUAL CONVOCATION

ofofofof

PROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPTERPROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPTERPROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPTERPROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPTER

To be held at the Berkshire Masonic Centre, Mole Road, Sindlesham, Wokingham, Berks RG41 5EA

MONDAY, 26th March 2012 at 3.30 p.m.

Companions must appear in full Royal Arch Clothing, Morning Dress or Dark Suit, White Collar, White Gloves, Black, Royal Arch or Provincial Tie and Black

Shoes

Contents Page No

Welcome from the M.E. Grand Superintendent ... ... ... 1 Officers of Provincial Grand Chapter 2011 – 2012 ... ... 2 Order of Procedure ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Minutes of 2011 Convocation ... ... ... ... ... 4 - 6

Provincial Grand Scribe E Report ... ... ... ... ... 7 - 10

Chapter Membership Statistics ... ... ... ... ... 11 - 15

Provincial Grand Treasurers Report ... ... .. ... 16

Accounts for Year Ended 31st December 2011 ... ... ... 17 - 18

Appointments and Promotions ... ... ... ... ... 19 - 22

In Memoriam ... ... ... ... ... ... 23

Roll of Chapters ... ... ... ... ... 24 - 25

2012 – 2016 Strategic Plan ... ... ... ... ... 26 - 27

Let there be Light ... ... ... ... ... ... 28

2013 Bicentenary Appeal ... ... ... ... ... ... 29

The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent

Dr Richard J.H. Neale

And the

Members of the Provincial Executive

For the Province of Buckinghamshire

Extend a warm welcome

To all companions and all of your Guests

The Annual Convocation

The Berkshire Masonic Centre, Sindlesham

Monday 26th March 2012

1

Grand Scribe E John Arthur Stribling Neleus 3062, 3089, 3305

Grand Scribe N Robert Sinclair Wharton Princes Risborough 5203, 3305

Grand Treasurer Russell Pendse, PGStB, SLGR Seer Green 9055, 3305

Grand Registrar Trevor William Stubbings Addington 1787, 2435, 3305

Grand D.C. Richard Hayden Reano Grenfell 3077, 3305

Grand Swd B John Leslie Simms, LGCR Sunnymeads 9313, 8689

Deputy Grand D.C. Raymond Arthur Curd Windsor End 9361, 9222

Deputy Grand D.C. Christopher D S Swinhoe-Standen Thames School's 6216, 3305

Grand Charity Steward John Angus McKenzie, PAGDC Inglefield 4238, 3305

Grand Sojourner Graham John McGowan-Smyth Five Points 8197, 3305, 9222

1st Asst. Grand Soj. Michael James Pritchard Taplow 3111

2nd Asst. Grand Soj. Roy William Trevatt Windsor End 9361

Asst. Grand Scribe E Michael Ralph Stephens Thames School's 6216, 9055, 9222, 3305

Grand Standard Bearer Andrew Charles Hough Roman Way 9533, 3305

Grand Standard Bearer Alastair William Hunt Bourne End 7943

Grand Standard Bearer Malcolm David Needham Dagmar 2262, 3305

Grand Organist Timothy James McSweeney Wineslai 2435

Asst. Grand D.C. Ian Hewitson Brown Thames School's 6216

Asst. Grand D.C. Peter Thomas Jordain Hampden 6483

Grand Steward Peter Timothy Bristow Inglefield 4238, 3305

Grand Steward Andre Bystra Wineslai 2435

Grand Steward John Ormston Princes Risborough 5203

Grand Janitor Anthony Paul Sydney Mills, PPGSoj Hall Barn 8480, 3305

Officers 2011 - 2012

Dr Richard J.H. Neale

Deputy Grand SuperintendentJohn Lionel Keeble, PGSwdB

Second Provincial Grand PrincipalPaul Alan Cawte, GStB

Third Provincial Grand Principal

MOST EXCELLENT GRAND SUPERINTENDENT

Paul Reginald Savage

2

ORDER OF PROCEDURE

1. To open Provincial Grand Chapter.

2. To read the Dispensations.

3. To call the roll of Provincial Grand Officers.

4. To call the roll of Chapters in the Province.

5. To submit for confirmation the Minutes of the Annual Convocation held on Monday 28th March 2011.

6. To receive the Provincial Grand Scribe E’s report.

7. The Treasurer to present his Report and the Audited Statement of Accounts for the year ended 31st December 2011.

8. To set the Provincial Annual Dues in respect of the year commencing 1st January 2013.

9. To elect the Provincial Grand Treasurer for the ensuing year, there only being one nomination namely, E.Comp T.R. Oxlade PPGSoj of Herschel Chapter No.1894.

10. To elect the Auditor for the ensuing year, there only being one nomination namely, E.Comp D. R. Gregory, PPGReg of Grenfell Chapter No. 3077.

11. The M.E. Grand Superintendent will announce the continuation in office of E.Comp Paul A. Cawte, GStB as the Second Provincial Grand Principal.

12. The M.E. Grand Superintendent will announce the continuation in office of E.Comp Paul R. Savage as the Third Provincial Grand Principal.

13. The M.E. Grand Superintendent will announce the continuation in office of E.Comp John L. Keeble, PGSwdB as the Deputy Grand Superintendent.

14. The M.E. Grand Superintendent will appoint and invest the Provincial Grand Officers for the ensuing year.

15. The M.E Grand Superintendent will address the Companions.

16. To transact any other business.

17. To collect Alms.

18. To close Provincial Grand Chapter.

19. To receive a presentation from the Royal College of Surgeons.

3

Provincial Grand Chapter of Buckinghamshire

The Annual Convocation of Provincial Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Buckinghamshire was held by Dispensations at the Berkshire Masonic Centre, Mole Road, Sindlesham, Berkshire, at 3.30p.m. on Monday, 28th March 2011 when there were present 350 Companions including invited Guests from other Provinces.

Dr. Richard J. H. Neale, M.E. Grand Superintendent in and over the Province of Buckinghamshire accompanied by the Second and Third Provincial Grand Principals, escorted by Grand Officers and Acting Officers of the Province together with fifteen visiting Grand Superintendents entered in procession.

Provincial Grand Chapter was opened in due form.

The Dispensation from the M.E. First Grand Principal authorising the holding of the Convocation at the Berkshire Masonic Centre, Sindlesham was read. The Provincial Grand Scribe E. also read a similar Dispensation granted by the M.E. Grand Superintendent in and over the Province of Berkshire.

Before proceeding with the agenda the assembled Companions stood in memory of E Comps, Peter Robert Sidney Renacre and E Comp Royston Gray Fender Past Deputy Grand Superintendents of Buckinghamshire.

Before continuing with the business on the agenda the M.E. Grand Superintendent referred to the passing to the Grand Chapter above of 23 Companions since the last Convocation. The Third Provincial Grand Principal offered a prayer in memory of the departed Companions, during which the assembled Companions stood to Order as a mark of respect to departed merit.

The M.E. Grand Superintendent then welcomed the visiting Grand Superintendents, Deputy Grand Superintendents, Principals and other Honoured Guests, with particular reference to those of Provinces making their first visit to the Provincial Grand Chapter of Buckinghamshire.

The Provincial Grand Scribe E. reported that all the Provincial Grand Officers were present with the exception of those made known to the M.E. Grand Superintendent, having tendered their apologies accordingly.

The Provincial Grand Scribe E. reported that all the Chapters in the Province were represented.

The minutes of the previous Annual Convocation held at Sindlesham on Monday 22nd March 2010, having been previously circulated in an abridged form to all the Companions with the summons for the Convocation, were taken as read and confirmed.

The Provincial Grand Scribe E. presented his report (A copy is attached) on the activities and progress of Royal Arch Masonry in the Province during the past year, highlighting the Grand Superintendent’s Reception Dinner in September,In April 2010 the M.E. Grand Superintendent was invited by the Province of Warwickshire to preside over their General Chapter of Instruction Festival held in Birmingham. He was accompanied by fifteen acting officers of the Province, to what proved to be a most enjoyable and informative occasion.

4

In July, at a “garden party” held at Stoke Place, Slough, the Province of Buckinghamshire was honoured by a visit from the M.W. Grand Master, H.R.H. the Duke of Kent. He was accompanied by the Grand Secretary, Nigel Brown, and the Grand Director of Ceremonies, Oliver Lodge. The Duke was introduced by the Provincial Grand Master and the Grand Superintendent to members of their Executives, Masters of forty Lodges and First Principals from twenty four Chapters. Various activities held in the Province, were on display including ihelp, Freemasonry in the Community. Masonic Trout & Salmon Fishing Charity.

The Grand Master took time to talk to everyone present which left a lasting impression on everyone present.

In January 2011 the Buckinghamshire First Principals’ Chapter had the pleasure of hosting the visit of the Second Grand Principal, George Pipon Frances on his first official visit to the Province of Buckinghamshire.

E.Comp. Russell Pendsé, PGStB., SLGCR., Provincial Grand Treasurer, presented the Statement of Accounts and Balance Sheet for the year ended 31st December 2010. Having been audited by E.Comp. Paul Reginald Savage PPGSN. it was resolved that the accounts and financial report as presented be adopted and recorded in the Minutes.

E.Comp. Russell Pendsé, PGStB., SLGCR., Provincial Grand Treasurer proposed and E.Comp. John Arthur Stribling, Provincial Grand Scribe E. seconded that the Provincial Annual Dues for the year commencing 1st January 2012 be maintained at £7.00 per member. The proposition was approved by the Companions present.

The M.E. Grand Superintendent announced that only one nomination for the Office of Treasurer for the ensuing year had been received, namely that of E.Comp. Russell Pendsé, PGStB., ProvGTreas., SLGCR., of Seer Green Chapter No. 9055 and therefore declared him re-elected Treasurer for the ensuing year .

The M.E. Grand Superintendent also announced that only one nomination for the Office of Auditor had been received, namely that of E.Comp. Peter Robert Cole, PPGSN. of Herschel Chapter No.1894 and therefore declared him elected Auditor for the ensuing year.

The M.E. Grand Superintendent then proceeded to appoint, obligate and install E.Comp. Paul Alan Cawte, ProvGJ. as Second Provincial Grand Principal following which, E.Comp. Ronald Lawrence Everett, PAGDC. was presented with a collaret jewel in recognition of his services as Second Provincial Grand Principal March 2010 to March 2011.

The M.E. Grand Superintendent then proceeded to appoint, obligate and install E.Comp. Paul Reginald Savage, PPGReg., as Third Provincial Grand Principal.

The M.E. Grand Superintendent then announced proceeded to appoint, obligate and install E.Comp. John Lionel Keeble, PGStB.ProvGDC, as Deputy Grand Superintendent. E.Comp. Thomas Dunn, PGSwdB. was presented with a collaret jewel in grateful recognition of his services as Deputy Grand Superintendant March 2004 to March 2011.

The M.E. Grand Superintendent then appointed and invested the Provincial Grand Officers in the Provincial Offices and Ranks to which they had been appointed or promoted and invested the re-elected Provincial Grand Treasurer. Following Investiture, the Companions were each presented with a Certificate by the Deputy Grand Superintendent. (A full list of recipients of Provincial Honours is appended to these minutes)

5

The M.E. Grand Superintendent addressed the assembled Companions. (A copy of the ME Grand Superintendent’s address is attached) at the end of which presentations were made to E.Comp, Thomas Dunn, the retiring Deputy Grand Superintendent, E. Comp Ray Reed PGSwdB the retiring PGM, and presented an award for meritorious service to E.Comp Randolph George Evans PPGSN. The Alms were collected and amounted to £1285 mostly in Gift Aid envelopes, enabling an estimated tax recovery of £289, with the total sum being deposited in the Provincial Relief Chest.

The Provincial Grand Scribe E. reported that greetings and apologies for non attendance had been received from or on behalf of ten Grand Superintendents, Deputy Grand Superintendents and Principals of neighbouring Provinces, together with those of other Distinguished Companions, and Companions of the Province all of which had been duly recorded.

The Provincial Grand Scribe E. also announced that the next Annual Convocation would be held on Monday, 26th March 2012 at the Berkshire Masonic Centre, Sindlesham subject to obtaining the necessary Dispensations.

All other Business of the Convocation being concluded, the Provincial Grand Chapter was closed in ancient and solemn form at 5.30 p.m.

The Companions joined in the singing of “Let there be Light”, followed by the first verse of the National Anthem.

6

Provincial Grand Chapter of Buckinghamshire

Scribe E’s Report 2012 / 2013

M.E. Grand Superintendent and Companions, it is my privilege and pleasure to submit this report for consideration on the activities and progress of Royal Arch Masonry in your Province for the past year.

It is with sadness I have to report that during the year nineteen of our members have passed to the Grand Lodge above, four of their number had reach the masonic rank of PPGSN, E. Comps Keith Hillyer, Charles Green, John Edward George Wisbey and David Reginald Allen. May all our departed Companions rest in peace; we add our sincere condolences to their families and Chapters.

For this year’s Annual Convocation we have introduced a new summons which includes the Scribe E and Treasurers reports, accounts, statistics, appointments, promotions and other information presented in a compact form, which we trust you will find an improvement.

Since our last Convocation, Members of the Executive Team have continued the policy of visiting Chapters throughout the Province, being escorted and accompanied by acting Provincial Officers. These visits were not only to Installation Convocations but also to working meetings especially where the Chapter has an exaltee, to make him especially welcome into our Province. Such visits are deemed an important part in the process of maintaining effective lines of communication with the Executive Officers of the Province.

It is with regret I report on the closure of two of our Chapters, Taplow Chapter No 3111 and Studholme Brownrigg Chapter, No. 2421, after 40 years and 115 years respectively, we have introduce a Ceremony for the Closing of a Chapter, which is to honour the Founders, to celebrate the history of the Chapter and the achievements of its members, followed by a service of thanksgiving. The symbols of the harmony, which have matured and flourished of the Chapter, are returned within the ceremony to the Province so that they may be again dispersed when Royal Arch Masonry has need of them.

There is an opportunity in the coming year to see the Royal Arch ceremony of Passing of the Veils, within the Province of Buckinghamshire, a demonstration of the ceremony is to take place at:- Buckinghamshire First Principals No 3305,meeting at Bletchley on Friday 20th April 2012. Herschel Chapter No 1894, meeting at Slough on Thursday 1st November 2012.

Members of the Provincial Executive Team have been privileged to attend the Annual Convocations of some twenty-four neighbouring Provinces, of who we are pleased to see with us today.

Our Provincial Convocation gives the Province of Buckinghamshire the opportunity of reciprocating the kind hospitality our Representatives have received during those visits and among our many distinguished guests today there are several making their first visit and deserve a special welcome.

7

Social Events The social calendar this year started with an inaugural Inter Provincial Quiz Night held at Sindlesham at the start of April between the Provinces of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Hampshire and Isle of Wight, the event was well attended by members, families and friends from the three Provinces, a very enjoyable evening with £1,500 raised during the evening for Charity. The Grand Superintendent’s Annual Reception and Dinner was held in July at the Buckingham Town Hall, Buckingham. It was a relaxed occasion where friends and their ladies were able to socialize at ease, with companions from all parts of the Province attending, a wonderful evening of fine food, good company and excellent entertainment courtesy of Companion Eugene Matthias who was magical, introducing his new dummy, ‘Susan’ (alias E. Companion Trevor Stubbings), into his act. The proceeds of the evening enabled a donation to Willen Hospice of £500.

This year Grand Superintendent’s Annual Reception and Dinner is to be held on 21st July at the Bell House Hotel, Beaconsfield.

During August our ME Grand Superintendent and his wife Pru invited members of the Buckinghamshire Royal Arch Executive, along with members of Inglefield Chapter to a relaxed Sunday afternoon at a barbecue held in their garden, in Farnham Royal which was much appreciated and enjoyed by all who attended...

Inter-Provincial Visits In recent years our M.E Grand Superintendent has introduced the visiting of the Royal Arch Province of Buckinghamshire to neighbouring Provinces and in turn hosting the visit from the other Provinces, this new addition to our Royal Arch Calendar has been well received and appreciated by all those taking part.

In May we had the privilege to host a visit from the Province of Wiltshire, which took place at a working meeting of Hall Barn Chapter in Beaconsfield. The Grand Superintendent, M E Comp David Blanchard, of Wiltshire accompanied by 14 of his executive and acting officers of the year attending with the equivalent from Buckinghamshire, accompanying our own Grand Superintendent, there were a further 39 companions from Hall Barn Chapter including their guests. Brother William Marlin of the Frederick Lawson Lodge was exalted into Hall Barn Chapter in an exemplary ceremony. The meeting was followed by a festive board which was a very happy and well run occasion; the two Grand Superintendents were each presented with an engraved whisky glass to commemorate the meeting, on the evening £450 was raised in aid of the Royal College of Surgeons for the furtherance of the Science of Surgery, a memorable Masonic occasion for Companion William and for all who attended.

In January Buckinghamshire had the pleasure in accepting a return visit to the Province of Wiltshire, our Grand Superintendent escorted by 17 executive and acting officers of the Province made a visit to a working meeting, of The Border Chapter No 3129 where they were welcome by the Grand Superintendent, M E Comp David Blanchard, of Wiltshire who was accompanied by his executive and acting officers for the year. A wonderful Masonic occasion enhancing the friendship between the Provinces.

8

Website The website since its introduction at last year’s annual convocation has been a great success, providing information and news throughout the Province with some 1,500 access to the site per month. I must thank all who help me with the content of the site in particular my assistant Mike Stephens who keeps the calendar of events updated and to our Second Provincial Grand Principal Paul Cawte for supplying information from around the Province. I would draw your attention to our interactive section on the website for each companion and Chapter to get involved.

Strategy Your Executive have during the year put together a Royal Arch Strategy document for the improvement and enjoyment of Royal Arch Masonry throughout the Province; the document is readily available on the website.

Statistics Over the past year various measures have been put in place aimed at increasing membership in the Royal Arch Province of Buckinghamshire, however, it is sad to see that the steady decline in subscribing membership experienced in previous years has continued during the year under review, resulting in 1276 Companions being registered on the Grand Lodge Adelphi data base as at 1st March 2012 compared with 1348 for the corresponding period of 2011.

Although down by 72 from the previous year, the percentage of Craft Masons who are members of the Royal Arch remains at a little under 38%.

There were 36 Exaltees compared with 47 for the previous year, whose ages ranged from 36 to 71 years. 33 Joining Companions and 2 Rejoining Companion.

Unfortunately 70 (19 from closure of C3111) Resignations, Cessations or Exclusions occurred. . And sadly the deaths of 19 Companions, to whose families and Chapters we express our deepest sympathy.

A target has been set during the year by Grand Lodge to increase the percentage of Craft Masons with membership of The Royal Arch to 50%. Companions I believe it is beholden on us all, to look to the 62% of Craft masons in Buckinghamshire who have not at present joined our beautiful Order and experienced the enhancement of their Craft masonry, the Companionship and the Joy of Royal Arch Masonry!

9

Grand Rank It is with considerable pleasure that I can now announce that the M.E. First Grand Principal has been pleased to make Appointments in Supreme Grand Chapter to the following Companions in the Province of Buckinghamshire:-

First appointments E.Comp Gordon Robertson - to the rank of Assistant Grand Sojourner E.Comp Raymond Anthony Ride - to the rank of Past Assistant Grand Sojourner E.Comp Paul Reginald Savage - to the rank of Past Grand Standard Bearer E.Comp John Arthur Stribling - to the rank of Past Grand Standard Bearer

and Promotions for:-

E. Comp Norman George Bliss, from Past Grand Standard Bearer to Past Assistant Grand Sojourner E. Comp Roy Anthony Michael Serle, from Past Grand Standard Bearer to Past Assistant Grand Sojourner

The Investiture of these worthy Companions will take place on Thursday 26th April 2012 and I am sure that you would like to join me in offering our sincere congratulations and best wishes to them all.

In organizing our Annual Convocation here at Sindlesham the whole process is made so much easier by the enthusiastic support and willing co-operation received from a number of Companions from the Provincial Grand Chapter of Berkshire. We are particularly grateful to their Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. Kenneth L. Benford, and his Executive Team for allowing us once again to use the splendid facilities of Sindlesham Court. I would like thank my Assistant E.Comp. Michael Stephens for his help throughout the year and in the preparation and organization of today’s Convocation and Banquet, along with many other Companions, which I trust will be enjoyed by all present.

Finally thanks Most Excellent Grand Superintendant to yourself for all the valuable guidance, assistance and support you have given to me in carrying out the duties of my office.

It is a tribute to your leadership that your Province is thriving, happy and keenly looking forward to what I am sure will prove another successful year for the Royal Arch in Buckinghamshire.

John A Stribling, 26-03-12

10

Buckinghamshire Provencal Grand Chapter Statistics 1st March 2011 to 29 February 2012

2011 2012Total Membership of Chapters at 1st March 2011 1688 1688Exalted during the year 36Joining Members during the year 35

Resigned during the year -50Died during the year -20Ceased Membership or Excluded -30Honorary Membership (net loss 6) -6

Total Membership as at 1st March 2012 1653

Decrease in Memberships -35

Numbers of Individual Members 1348 1276Decrease in Individual Members -72

Average age of Exaltee 50Average age of Membership 65

2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007Buckinghamshire Craft Members 3,386 3,465 3,587 3,711 3,832 3,897

Buckinghamshire Royal Arch Members 1276 1348 1374 1423 1499 1520

Percentage of Craft Members in Royal Arch 37.7 38.9 38.3 38.3 39.1 39

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15

Treasurer’s Report 2012/2013

M.E. Grand Superintendent and Companions, I have much pleasure in presenting my final report for the year ending 31st December, 2011.

Companions will recall that when I took the Office of Treasurer in 2006, the Province was nursing an operating deficit of £4,888. I would hasten to add that this was not because of lack of financial management, but because of an additional Convocation in the previous year. At the same time, becoming independent from the Craft Province, our operating cost per head increased substantially, in percentage terms. Whilst we were never at serious financial risk, I deemed that urgent measures were vital if we were to halt the erosion of our reserves, and put the Province on sound financial basis. In 2007, the procedure relating to ‘Notice of Motion’ was simplified, thereby eliminating the undue delay in commencement of due date, of annual subscriptions.

Most Excellent, I am very pleased to put it on record that at the end of last calendar year, our total net assets at Lloyds Bank were £26,074. During the year, our income rose by just over £400 while the expenditure rose by £1,340. This represents a surplus for the year of £4,082 compared with £4,999 in the previous year.

I believe that the mounting household debts in this Country, severe currency crisis throughout Euro zone and the persistent economic downturn around the World, spell out very difficult times ahead for us all. Chapter Membership has fallen by 2% in each of the last five years and there are no signs of any improvement on the horizon. For these reasons, I would implore the Province to exercise utmost caution with our finances, for the foreseeable future. For the same reasons, I consider it to be unnecessary to recommend any changes to the annual dues. Subscriptions per member, exaltation fees, and joining fees will remain at their respective present levels, which will become due on 1st January, 2013.

At the end December 2011, our Relief Chest Balance was £1,733 (£129). We did not make any donations to other Provinces during that year.

Once again, I would like to urge Companions who pay tax, to take full advantage of the concession offered by H.M.R.C. and complete the Gift-aid envelope correctly; otherwise the Province cannot claim the significant benefit of tax refund.

Most Excellent it gives a degree of satisfaction to know that I am handing over the finances of the Province to my successor, E.Comp Peter Cole from a position of strength and trust that he will find the experience as rewarding as I have.

Russell Pendsé, Provincial Grand Treasurer 26th March 2012

16

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2011

INCOME & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

Year ended Year Ended 31/12/2011 31/12/2010 INCOME

Annual Convocation 6,633.00 5,970.00

Annual Dues 12,736.50 13,098.00

Registration 360.00 270.00

Bank Interest Received 6.52 6.52

Miscellaneous Income 45.00 14.25

________ ________

£19,781.02 £19,358.77

EXPENDITURE

Annual Convocation 9,654.00 9,131.90

Postage 358.90 513.23

Rent & Office Expenses 1,599.27 1,803.99

Equipment & Software 657.43 350.00

Telephone 341.26 271.40

Provincial Directory 800.00 800.00

Supreme Grand Chapter 133.20 89.31

Escorts for Provincial Grand Officers 1,230.00 915.00

Miscellaneous Expenses 194.90 484.87

Regalia 46.07 0.00

Registrar’s Travel Expenses 684.00 0.00

________ ________

£15,699.03 14,359.70

Surplus for the Year £4,081.99 £4,999.07

17

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2011

BALANCE SHEET

Year ended Year Ended 31/12/2011 31/12/2010

Current Assets

Cash at Bank 26,544.41 22,352.42

Current Liabilities

Accruals 470.00 360.00

________ ________

Net Assets £26,074.41 £21,992.42

Represented by

Accumulated Surplus B/F 21,992.42 16,993.35

Surplus for Year 4,081.99 4,999.07

________ ________

Accumulated Surplus £26,074.41 £21,992.42

RELIEF CHEST

Opening Balance 129.68 3,177.72

Alms Transferred 1,285.00 1,126.30

Direct Transfer 0.00 5.00

Interest Earned 9.06 19.41

Gift-aid Tax Received 308.99 301.25

Donations Made 0.00 - 4,500.00

_______ _______

Account Balance £1,732.73 £129.68

18

Grand Scribe E John Arthur Stribling ProvGSE Neleus 3062, 3089, 3305Grand Scribe N Michael Roger Stimson PPGSN Manor of Swanburn 8647, 3305Grand Treasurer Timothy Russell Oxlade PPGSoj Herschel 1894, 9222, 3305Grand Registrar Trevor William Stubbings ProvGReg Addington 1787, 2435, 3305Grand D.C. Richard Hayden Reano ProvGDC Grenfell 3077, 3305Grand Swd B Michael William Blane PPGStwd Oliver 2812, 9222, 3305Deputy Grand D.C. Christopher D S

Swinhoe-Standen ProvDepGDC Thames School's 6216, 3305Deputy Grand D.C. Gary Adair Brodie Sunnymeads 9313, 9222, 3305Grand Charity Steward John Angus McKenzie PAGDC, ProvGChStwd Inglefield 4238, 3305Grand Sojourner Darren Paul Mantell Dagmar 2262, 33051st Asst. Grand Soj. Kevin Corcoran Fairway 86142nd Asst. Grand Soj. Richard Andrew Rivett Shelburne 7719Asst. Grand Scribe E Michael Ralph Stephens ProvAGSE Thames School's 6216, 9055, 9222, Grand Standard Bearer Peter Frederick Bond PPAGDC (Herts) Stephens 3089, 9533, 3305Grand Standard Bearer Martin Alfred Wing Five Points 8197Grand Standard Bearer Matthew James Eaton Sunnymeads 9313Grand Organist Timothy James

McSweeney ProvGOrg Wineslai 2435Asst. Grand D.C. Ian Hewitson Brown ProvAGDC Thames School's 6216Asst. Grand D.C. Matthew Harold Arnold Oliver 2812Grand Steward Peter Dennis Moody Bevan 2458, 3305Grand Steward Aleksandar Muncan Oliver 2812, 3305Grand Steward Anthony Bromage Aylesbury 4534Grand Janitor Anthony Paul

Sydney Mills PPGSoj, ProvGJan Hall Barn 8480

MOST EXCELLENT GRAND SUPERINTENDENT

Paul Reginald Savage

2012 - 2013

APPOINTMENTS - 2012

Dr Richard J.H. Neale

Deputy Grand SuperintendentJohn Lionel Keeble, PGSwdB

Second Provincial Grand PrincipalPaul Alan Cawte, GStB

Third Provincial Grand Principal

19

Iain Broatch PPGReg,PPGSN (Herts) Roman Way 9533, 3305Michael Percy James PPGReg,PPGSN(Middx) Old Paludians 7181Thomas Anthony Porter PPGReg,PPGSN(Middx) Sunnymeads 9313, 8689, 3305

Raymond Arthur Curd ProvDepGDC Windsor End 9361, 9222, 3305Brian Frank Shepherd PPGSoj Thames Mariner 8628, 9222Peter David Frank Adshead PPGSoj Hampden 6483John Henry Tindale PPGSwdB Denham 5950, 4238, 3305Barry Spanton Searle PPGSwdB Denham 5950, 3305Richard John Lewis PPGSoj Princes Risborough 5203, 3305Peter Robert Hardwick PPGSoj Grenfell 3077, 3305Dennis Bryan Ball PPGSoj Marlow 2752Vincenzo Bennet PPGSwdB Buckingham 591

Stanley Winston Ritter PPAGSoj Neleus 3062, 3305Anthony Richard Cersell PPAGDC, Roman Way 9533

Christopher Mervyn Base PPGSoj River 5126Eric William Wickham-Ruffle PPGSoj Ferdinand de Rothschild 2420, 3305Angus Scott Mackay PPGSoj Bowen 948Edward Choulerton PPAGSoj Bowen 948Michael Alfred Power PPAGSoj Buckingham 591

Richard Arthur Rockall PPGStB Stephens 3089, 3305David John Vallis PPGStB Hampden 6483, 9533, 3305John William Holsman PPAGDC Five Points 8197, 3305Kevin Mark Williams PPGStwd Manor of Swanburn 8647, 9222Stephen John Barnes PPGStB Grenfell 3077Peter Austin Cook PPGStB Bevan 2458Brian Leslie Wells PPGStB Wineslai 2435John Richard Lake PP1stAGSoj Dagmar 2262

Past Provincial Grand Sword Bearer

Past Provincial Grand Sojourner

PPDDepGSwdB,(Middx)

PROMOTIONS - 2012

Past Provincial Grand Scribe Nehemiah

Past Provincial Grand Registrar

20

Peter Roland Carey PPAGDC St.Georges 840Kenneth Verity PPAGDC Denham 5950Malcolm Eric Murray Stockley PPAGDC Cestreham 6674Richard Crozier PPGStwd Wolverton Trinity 7917Sydney John Campkin PPGStwd Windsor End 9361

Ian Phillip Bamsey Addington 1787, 1639Peter John George St.Georges 840Ian Taylor Cameron Inglefield 4238, 3305

6215reviRsnavE kraM nywnelG5033 ,8268reniraM semahTgninnaC samohT dnomyaR

Stanley Peter Atkins Studholme Brownrigg 24215033 ,1242ggirnworB emlohdutSsnommiS namtseirP nallA

4766mahertseCnotpU nhoJ rehpotsirhCHedley Lloyd Troke Wolverton Trinity 7917

1718kraP mahxeWnagaF ecirP samohT1639dnE rosdniWsrednuaS derflA yrraB

Addington 17874981lehcsreHstreboR rehpotsirhC dlanoR8542naveBnotseluP yrneH nehpetS3025hguorobsiR secnirPdrehpehS kcirederF nhoJ6126s'loohcS semahTnonnahS nhoJ niveK

Kofi Bondzie Sagoe Longueville 9322, 3305

Thomas John Howes, (Rule 32a)

Past Provincial Assistant Grand Sojourner

Past Provincial Grand Sojourner

Past Provincial Grand Standard Bearer

Past Provincial Assistant Grand Sojourner

FIRST APPOINTMENTS - PAST RANKS - 2012

21

Robert Stuart Nutt (rule 32b) St.Georges 840

0242dlihcshtoR ed dnanidreF)b23 elur( nospmohT dlanoRDavid John Savage Wineslai 2435Marshall Ulic Gatfield Aylesbury 4534John Surridge, (Rule 32b) Princes Risborough 5203Edward William McCarthy Burnham 5568

Hall Barn 8480

Past Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies

Christopher Evance Comissiong

22

IN MEMORIAMThe following Companions passed to the Grand Lodge Above

1st March 2011 to 29th February 2012

Name Chapter Date deceased

E.Comp Jim Barcock, PPGStB 9222 05/03/2011

E.Comp Keith Hillyer, PPGSN 3305 10/03/2011

E.Comp J. R. Kemp, PPGSwdB 8689 15/03/2011

E.Comp Brian G. White, PPGStB 840 17/03/2011

Comp Leslie C. de Gruchy 1894 23/03/2011

Comp Leslie P. Harrold 9055 28/04/2011

Comp Rodney W. Brown, OBE 5203 01/05/2011

E.Comp Norman Pearce, PPGSN 8197 18/06/2011

E.Comp Alfred W. Humphreys, PPAGSoj 3077 23/07/2011

Comp Gerald A. Smallwood 7181 03/08/2011

E.Comp Charles Green, PPGSN 5568 09/08/2011

E.Comp John E. G. Wisbey, PPGSN 2458, 8974 15/09/2011

Comp David Granshaw 6216 16/09/2011

E.Comp P. James Wood, PPGSwdB 2812 25/10/2011

E.Comp Alfred F. H. Knight, PPGSwdB 591, 8614 26/10/2011

Comp Paul E. Holdom 591 30/10/2011

Comp Ian S. Curtis 9361 02/11/2011

Comp Alan H. Fraser 2421 25/12/2011

E.Comp David R. Allen, PPGSN 9361 02/02/2012

23

Roll of Chapters

Chapter Name No. Location Buckingham 591 Aylesbury

wolraM 136 neuhteM

St. George’s 840 Wolverton

dleifsnocaeB 849 newoB

wolraM 1051 ebmocyW

Watling Street 1639 Stony Stratford

Addington 1787 Buckingham

hguolS 4981 lehcsreH

Cowper & Newton 2244 Olney

hguolS 2622 ramgaD

Ferdinand de Rothschild 2420 Aylesbury

wolsniW 5342 ialseniW

wolraM 8542 naveB

wolraM 2572 wolraM

yelhctelB 2182 revilO

Beaconsfield 2849 Slough

Royal Thames 2966 Slough

dleifsnocaeB 2603 sueleN

hguolS 7703 llefnerG

dleifsnocaeB 9803 snehpetS

Bucks First Principals 3305 Beaconsfield

hguolS 8324 dleifelgnI

Aylesbury 4534 Aylesbury

hguolS 6215 reviR

Princes Risborough 5203 Thame

hguolS 4525 revI

hguolS 8655 mahnruB

yrubselyA 7365 susageP

mahneD 0595 mahneD

Thames School’s 6216 Marlow

yrubselyA 3846 nedpmaH

Cestreham 6674 Beaconsfield

Old Paludians 7181 Slough

wolraM 9177 enrublehS

Wolverton Trinity 7917 Wolverton

Bourne End 7943 Marlow

Wexham Park 8171 Marlow

24

Roll of Chapters (Cont’)

Chapter Name No. Location Five Points 8197 Slough

Hall Barn 8480 Beaconsfield

Fairway 8614 Aylesbury

Thames Mariner 8628 Marlow

Manor of Swanburn 8647 Bletchley

Wraysbury 8689 Slough

Marlow Valley 8974 Marlow

Seer Green 9055 Beaconsfield

Bucks Provincial Stewards 9222 Beaconsfield

Sunnymeads 9313 Slough

Longueville 9322 Bletchley

Windsor End 9361 Beaconsfield

Roman Way 9533 Winslow

25

For the thoughtful and curious Mason – the journey of self-discovery continueswith Membership of the Royal Arch

The Future of The Holy Royal Arch in Buckinghamshire 2012 to 2016

The VisionThat Royal Arch Masonry be recognised, accepted and acted upon by ‘Craft’ Masonsas being the essential step after becoming a Master Mason in order to complete a

Brothers journey in ‘pure ancient freemasonry’.That our Chapters make the Royal Arch meaningful and deliver the fulfillment our

members have a right to expect”.

Summary of key actions 2012 to 2016

The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent Dr Richard Neale and his team havecompleted a review of the Holy Royal Arch in Buckinghamshire. As a result, The Visionhas been aligned to 4 strategic themes identified by our members as requiring action:-

• Communications• About You• Recruitment, Retention and Retrieval• Money Matters

These themes have led us to identify 11 key actions:

Communications – we will:

1. Define the Holy Royal Arch and its relation to the Craft in terms that are easilyunderstood by today’s Masons and we shall continuously review and update it inkeeping with the needs of new recruits and the existing Companions, withouteroding our ‘traditions’ and ‘values’2. Develop action plans aimed at:

• Recruiting new members.• Meeting the needs of new members, in particular during the first years

of their membership.• Meeting the needs of existing Companions.• Encouraging Chapters to be innovative in their thinking with regard to

recruitment, retention and retrieval.• Initiating Chapter social events for Craft Masons.• Critically reviewing the manner in which they hold their Chapter meetings.

3. Improve communications:-• Between the Province and Chapters.• Between the Craft and Royal Arch.

26

4. Focus on providing high grade media coverage, both Masonic and Non-Masonic,by producing and distributing articles relating to Freemasonry in general and theHoly Royal Arch in particular.5. Develop and maintain a vibrant, up-to-date, informative and motivational web-site.

About You – we will:

6. Introduce a process of conducting surveys and interviews at key points in a RoyalArch Mason’s career. The aim is to address and measure whether aspirations havebeen and are continuously being met. The timing will be:-

• On the first anniversary of joining.• On completion of the Office of IPZ

7. Encourage our members and give them opportunities for advancement, usingtheir individual skills and expertise for the benefit of the Province.

8. Integrate Royal Arch Training, Education and Development within the currentBuckinghamshire Craft ‘Members Development’ group so that a cohesive ‘PureAncient Freemasonry’ is projected to both Craft and Royal Arch membership.

9. Provide an environment for self development and personal fulfillment that buildson the teachings of the Holy Royal Arch and its relationship to the Craft.

Recruitment, Retention and Retrieval – we will:

10. Focus on reversing the trend of membership decline to a net gain. The 5 yearobjective will be 50% of Craft members being in the Royal Arch.

Money Matters – we will:

11. Highlight to our Membership and Chapters:• That falling numbers will inevitably impact membership costs.• That falling numbers will impact on Chapter and Centre finances.

27

LET THERE BE LIGHT John Marriot 1816

THOU, Whose Almighty wordChaos and darkness heard, And took their flight; Hear us, we humbly pray; And, where the gospel’s day Sheds not its glorious ray, Let there be light! Thou, Who didst come to bringOn Thy redeeming wing Healing and sight, Health to the sick in mind, Sight to the inly blind, Oh, now to all mankind Let there be light! Spirit of truth, and love, Life-giving, holy Dove, Speed forth Thy flight! Move on the waters’ face Bearing the lamp of grace, And in earth’s darkest place Let there be light! Holy and blessed Three, Glorious Trinity, Wisdom, Love, Might! Boundless as ocean’s tide Rolling in fullest pride, Through the earth, far and wide,Let there be light!

28

2013 Bicentenary Appeal

The Royal Arch Masons 2013 Bicentenary Appeal

The Bicentenary of the Royal Arch in 2013 is a date which marks the official recognition of the Royal Arch as ‘the completion of pure and ancient Freemasonry’.

An important element of this milestone event will be a fund-raising exercise over the next two years to provide a permanent memorial of the anniversary. The sum raised will create a Research Fund for the benefit of the Royal College of Surgeons which will be administered at no extra cost alongside the Craft’s 250th Anniversary Fund for the purposes of research by the Royal College.

The Royal College of Surgeons is a registered charity (not part of the NHS) and plays a vital role in supporting surgical research within the UK.

The Royal Arch Masons 2013 Bicentenary Appeal has been established to help fund the College’s successful surgical research fellowship scheme, which supports surgeons to undertake a surgical research project. This scheme enables the brightest and best surgeons of each generation to explore treatments for conditions and injuries that affect millions of people worldwide.

Surgical research continues to provide significant advances in: -

• Hip and knee replacements

• The prevention of strokes

• Reconstructive surgery for trauma and war wounded victims

• Less invasive surgery and quicker recovery

• Skilled operations to improve hearing and sight • Cancer survival rates.

To help to meet this goal Supreme Grand Chapter has opened a Relief Chest with the Grand Charity into which all donations will be allocated.

The task set by the M.E. Grand Superintendent for the Royal Arch Province of Buckinghamshire is to encourage each Companion to donate £15 or more if you wish, preferably by Gift Aid, to the Appeal over the next two years. Times may be difficult but this isn’t a big ask for such a deserving cause.

This can be done online with the Grand Charity www.grandcharity.org/pages/royal_arch_masons_2013.html or by downloading and printing the Donation forms from the website.

Chapters can also contribute from their Relief Chests or by donating raffles proceeds collected at the festive boards.

E.Comp Rob Chaproniere has kindly agreed to assist me with the project in the north of the province and E.Comp Bob Chevin also has volunteered his help to which we have readily agreed.

Contacts for information or help at any time: -

E.Comp John McKenzie 0208 337 9927 busec@aol.com

E.Comp Rob Chaproniere 01234 713476 rob@chaproniere.co.uk

E.Comp Bob Chevin 01296 613835 ranchmuir@btinternet.com.29

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE PROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPTER

www.buckspgc.org

The Provincial Office, Old School House, Windsor End,

Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 2JW

Tel: 01494 681694