One of the most beautiful and historic towns in Kent is Faversham and within the unique setting of the Old Grammer School dating back to Tudor times, you will find the very friendly and welcoming Harmony Jubilee Rose Croix Chapter No 834. Their January Enthronement meeting was a rich tapestry of enjoyment, positivity, care and solemn remembrance.
As part of the Chapter’s community outreach the members were informed that a chance conversation with the Chapter Treasurer, III. Bro George Prosser 30°, had highlighted a specific difficulty being experienced by a young medical student at University, who is aiming to become an NHS doctor. Both Ill. Bro George and the Most Wise Sovereign, III. Bro Lyndon Jones 32°, then met up with the student (Abigail) and ascertained that she required, amongst other instruments, a particular stethoscope before the new academic term commenced. Harmony Chapter happily made the necessary arrangements to assist Abigail further. To say that she was delighted and appreciative is an understatement and the kindness from the Chapter has made such a difference to a young student on an arduous journey.
Sadly, in December, the Chapter was informed of the passing of their Most Wise Sovereign elect, Ill. Bro. Reginald Taylor-Harding 31°. “Reggie” as he was known had become such a strong supporter of the Chapter in just a few short years and having been a Preceptor for the King Edward VII Chapter of Improvement everyone was looking forward to his excellent ritual for 2026. He will be much missed. Reggie’s passing meant that the current MWS, Ill. Bro Lyndon Jones, was proclaimed as MWS for a further year.
As ever, a most warm welcome was given to all guests and visitors which included the District Recorder, III. Bro Trevor Youens 31°. A truly wonderful ceremony then followed, delivered by various officers, to Perfect Bro. Brian Coleman of the Lodge of Harmony into the Ancient and Accepted Rite. Notably, two Princes in their first years of membership, E&P Bro Jason Kemp 18° and E&P Bro Matthew Bolton 18° took on the Intermediate degrees and the Emblems and Signs respectively. Both being delivered in a faultless manner.
A Supreme Council Certificate was presented to E&P Bro Antonino Surace 18° by our District Recorder. The attention of the brethren was then drawn to the new Altar Cloth, which has been hand-made by the wife of the Prelate. The old Altar Cloth, which had been in use since the Chapter was founded in 1977, was dark red in colour and had originally been an altar frontal in a Church. It had deteriorated over the years and was becoming very fragile. As you can see from the photograph, the replacement is resplendent!
After all the business was concluded the Chapter was closed and we all withdrew and made our way to dinner which takes place in a another unique setting. Like the Temple upstairs, the style and ambience of the Hall downstairs captures what it must have been like in Tudor times and along with the delicious food for dinner, everyone had a wonderful time in each other’s company. Good Ritual, Good Fellowship and Good Food!
