On a warm summer’s evening in Sittingbourne the members of Swale Chapter 657 were delighted to welcome a great many guests and visitors to their Chapter for a very special evening.
The guests and visitors had travelled from far and wide to witness the occasion of seeing E&P Bro Mark Bassant 18° taking the Chair as the new Most Wise Sovereign of the Swale Chapter. The ceremony of Enthronement was conducted to a very high standard by E&P Bro Roy Brooks 18°, the outgoing MWS. A joy to behold, with all the Chapter Officers contributing to ensure the evening was an undoubted success.
The meeting was further enhanced by the visit of a large number of members from the Hubert De Burgh Chapter N0 103 from Dover. They had come to Sittingbourne not only to enjoy the evening and welcome the new MWS, but to also present the “Roger Waltham Travelling Rose”.
When Roger Waltham was appointed Inspector General of the District of East Kent in 2018 he was also presented with a special decorative box adorned with the unmistakable double head eagle of the Order. The box and rose it contains have collectively become known as the “Travelling Rose” the purpose of which is to support the happy and beneficial effect of “good fellowship” within the Order, by encouraging inter-Chapter visiting around the District of East Kent.
It is the practice that the “Travelling Rose” shall be presented by the visiting MWS to the MWS of the recipient Chapter. It is expected to be passed between Chapters at least twice per year. It is hoped that much joy and happiness is promoted and encouraged by the regular passing of the Travelling Rose.
There was plenty of evidence of this conviviality at the Swale Chapter, exemplifying the great fellowship we enjoy as members of the Order. Lots of good food, enjoyed by all in a wonderful atmosphere, after such good ritual.
So many happy faces ! Please get in touch with the District Recorder if you would like to know more. Have a great summer everyone.