On Thursday 27th October 2022 at the South West Surrey Masonic Centre, Guildford, an Emergency Meeting of the Provincial Grand Senatus of Surrey was held to conduct the Preparation Ceremony for the office of President for three Companions of the Third Grade; Companions Wally Maynard of Surrey Consistory No 4 TI; Donald McGarr of Hill of Zion Consistory No 52 TI; and David Blackburn, the District Grand Master of the Royal and Select Masters District of Surrey, of Warlingham Consistory No 134.
The Ceremony was conducted by the Provincial Grand Summus, R.Dist. Comp. Arnold Long, assisted by his Provincial Officers. Provincial Grand Senatus was opened in the First Grade of the Order by the Provincial Grand Summus, who welcomed everyone to Guildford and thanked them for attending to support the Province. The Consistory was then adjourned in the First Grade and opened in the Third Grade.
The Provincial Grand Summus and his officers then proceeded to put the questions to the Candidates. The Provincial Grand Summus designated the Candidates as Eminent Companions saying that the patent which they will receive will be signed by the Most Distinguished Grand Summus and qualify them to be installed as a President of a Consistory.
The Consistory was closed in the Third Grade, and resumed in the First Grade of the Order. The Provincial Grand Summus then presented Em.Comps. Wally Maynard and David Blackburn with their 3rd Grade Certificates. He also presented Em.Comp. Graham Rawlinson with his Preparation Certificate.
Provincial Grand Senatus was closed in due form and the customary photos taken before retiring to prepare for the installation meeting of Guildford Consistory which followed.
Article and photos by Chris Eley
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