Monday 8 December 2025 and Brethren from around the world were at Great Queens Street, London to support those receiving Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank and enjoy a wonderful day. There was a sizeable number from our Province who enjoyed the journey down in the usual manner toasting the health to what lay ahead for the four Brethren from our Province receiving honours. Those Brethren were W. Bro’s Michael Holmes, Michael Jessop, Andrew Johnson and Warren Marsden.
The Presiding Officer for the day was R.W.Bro. Prof. Denovan Keith Wilson Deputy Grand Master. He really is a joy to listen to as all those who were present at Wentworth RAM recent sesquicentenary celebration will confirm. His confident but relaxed manner kept everyone’s attention and the addition of humour at the right time made a special and formal day that more enjoyable. His message for the day was based on unity and the fact that we are all Royal Ark Mariners and as such are all equal referring to a certain piece of ritual at our meetings.
The colour of the processions in the wonderful Grand Temple of Freemasons Hall really was spectacular and made for a super meeting.
Dining at the Connaught Rooms was fantastic with everyone chatting to friends old and new. As is tradition West Yorkshire and North and East Yorkshire joined together to toast each other’s health and mix as one.
Not everyone dines at the Connaught Rooms as there are many places to dine and celebrate the day with recipients and friends. The main point is to go and enjoy the splendour of the meeting and enjoy a super day.
Too soon it was time to make the way home and look forward to next year’s gathering. Congratulations to ALL those Brethren from around the world who received honours on a fantastic day of Royal Ark Masonry where once again Brethren reconnected and enjoyed a rewarding and enjoyable day.
Andrew Johnson
Communications Manager
