It was a foggy, frosty night on 29 November when The Chapter of Concord, which meets in Durham Masonic Hall, had the pleasure of receiving the ME Grand Superintendent, John Paul Thompson, accompanied by a large deputation of Provincial Officers.

Once the formal introductions had taken place, John rose and introduced the Provincial 3rd Grand Principal, Dr Rakesh Bhalla.

Rak delivered an extremely thought-provoking PowerPoint on the need for Chapters, no matter how successful, to produce a plan. Rak explained that any such plan must include all Chapter members, not just the ‘old guard’.

The discussion points on the plan ranged from when to join the Royal Arch, the ritual, the historical aspect of the Chapter and the festive board.

In summary, the assembled Companions all agreed that planning is the only way forward.

The discussion on the points raised in the Chapter room continued over a superb 3 course Christmas meal and delicious hot mince pies.

The Chapter presented John with a generous cheque for Durham Benevolence. In his reply to the toast, John made special reference to this, stating that Durham Benevolence is the Jewel in the Crown of the Province.

Overall, the planning for a particularly good night paid off.