More than 30 Royal Arch Companions from Durham Freemasons travelled to London on Wednesday 11 November for a memorable visit to Supreme Grand Chapter, combining the fellowship of Freemasonry with the solemn acts of remembrance marking Armistice Day.
Led by John Watts, Head of Durham Freemasons and Provincial Grand Superintendent in the Royal Arch, the Durham contingent included Clinton Leeks OBE, Deputy Grand Superintendent, Julian Ward, Third Provincial Grand Principal, members of the Provincial Executive and senior team, together with Royal Arch Companions from Chapters across the Province.
The visit was another important part of Durham Freemasons' Month of Remembrance and Service, which has seen Freemasons from across the region come together to honour those who have served and sacrificed.
These activities reflect Durham Freemasons' longstanding relationship with the Armed Forces community and reinforce the commitment made when the organisation signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2022, recognising the contribution of serving personnel, veterans and their families.
The visit to Supreme Grand Chapter was particularly significant as the meeting fell on Armistice Day itself, providing another opportunity for Companions to reflect on the sacrifices made by generations of servicemen and women.
Before the Convocation, Companions had the opportunity to observe the traditional two minutes' silence at 11am, either at the Cenotaph in Whitehall or at Freemasons' Hall, where the Roll of Honour commemorates Freemasons who made the supreme sacrifice.
Freemasons' Hall in Great Queen Street provided a fitting setting for the occasion. The magnificent Art Deco building, completed in 1933, was originally constructed as a memorial to Freemasons who lost their lives during the First World War. Known for many years as the Masonic Peace Memorial, it remains a powerful reminder of Freemasonry's longstanding connection with remembrance and service.
The Durham Companions joined hundreds of Royal Arch Freemasons from across England and overseas for the Convocation of Supreme Grand Chapter, held in the magnificent Grand Temple.
For many, the occasion provided an opportunity to experience the grandeur of Freemasonry's national headquarters, the impressive surroundings of the Grand Temple and the sense of belonging to a much wider organisation.
Following the meeting, the Companions enjoyed dining at the historic Grand Connaught Rooms, where they had the opportunity to share their experiences and enjoy the fellowship of Royal Arch Freemasonry. Some remained in London to attend the evening Remembrance Concert in support of The Not Forgotten charity, while others began their journey north, returning with memories of a special day and renewed enthusiasm for Royal Arch Freemasonry in Durham.
The visit was also part of a wider initiative to encourage Durham Freemasons to attend national meetings together, strengthen friendships across Chapters and develop a greater understanding of the Royal Arch and its place within Pure Ancient Freemasonry.
John Watts said:
"It has been wonderful to see so many Durham Companions making the journey to London and sharing this very special occasion.
"Meeting on Armistice Day has given us an opportunity not only to enjoy the fellowship and traditions of the Royal Arch, but also to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our country.
"Throughout our Month of Remembrance and Service, Durham Freemasons have demonstrated their commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community, from collecting for the Poppy Appeal to attending services of remembrance across our region and nationally. This is an important part of the commitment we made when signing the Armed Forces Covenant in 2022.
"Experiences like this also remind us that we are part of something much bigger than our individual Chapters. I hope everyone returns to Durham with renewed enthusiasm, ready to share their experiences, encourage others to join us and help Royal Arch Freemasonry continue to grow across our Province."
The visit demonstrated the strength of fellowship within Durham Freemasons and the importance of bringing Companions together beyond their regular Chapter meetings.
For those who attended, it was a day of remembrance, fellowship and shared experience, reflecting Durham Freemasons' continuing commitment to the Armed Forces community and inspiring even greater participation in future Provincial visits.
One Journey. One Organisation. Stronger Together.
