They say, “If you want something done, give it to a busy man”.
In this respect I have failed miserably. Yes, I have been an extremely busy man in the last four months, but I have failed to produce a “Blog” in that period of time. For that I apologise.
Being an active Provincial Officer in Knights Templar, Chapter, and St Thomas of Acon has taken its toll. Also being in the Chair of a Knight Templar Priests Tabernacle as well as Marshal in a Pilgrim Preceptor’s Conclave has added to my woe. My bout of Covid didn’t help either.
Enough of my excuses, I am pleased to say I have visited the majority of the Courts in the Province at least once during the last four months and received a very warm welcome everywhere, so thank you very much to one and all. The standard of work has generally been to a very high standard, so please keep it up. The number of visiting brethren has been exceptional. I cannot express my gratitude enough to those who have travelled the length and breadth of the Province to support the various Courts. If you haven’t joined this merry band, then please do so. It is very rewarding.
Saturday 11th June saw the presentation of the Replica Saxon Sword by the Most Worshipful Grand Master to the Malmesbury Museum. Around 100 distinguished guests witnessed the ceremony, including, the High Sherriff of Wiltshire, the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, and the Mayor of Malmesbury. The Province of East Anglia was represented by the Eminent Grand Prior RW&Em Bro Dr Chris Ansell, W Bro Peter Fagg, Bro Colin Jackson, and myself. A great day was had by all.
The sword was created by Hector Cole MBE (Swordsmith) and Tim Blades (Silversmith).
I have been lucky enough to have been invited to both The Norfolk Chapter and the joint Cambridgeshire Craft and Chapter Provincial Meetings, where I received a warm and courteous welcome in both instances.
I would like to welcome the eight new “Instructees” into the Order since my last blog, joining the ranks of Courts 2, 31, 76, 84 and 150. Brethren, you are all most welcome and I wish you every enjoyment and success as Athelstan Masons.
Your Provincial Grand Secretary Worshipful Brother Eddie Moore continues to update all the members with any important communications from Grand Court, so I will not repeat them here. Eddie has also updated the Provincial Yearbook as of 2nd July, which he has issued electronically to the membership and which is also available on this website after logging in.
Don’t forget to keep up to date with events in the Order on YouTube, Facebook, and both our Grand Court and Provincial websites.
In the meantime, please look after yourselves, and your families, and I will be in touch again in due course.
Yours sincerely and fraternally
Alex Allan