A Celebration of Companionship, Fellowship and Royal Arch Masonry
On Wednesday, 16th September, the Cambridgeshire Clarets held their inaugural dinner at Freemasons’ Hall, Bateman Street, Cambridge, bringing together approximately 57 Cambridgeshire Masons from ten Chapters, including eight new Craft members who have yet to become Royal Arch Companions.
The evening was honoured by the presence of many Excellent Companions, including the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E. Comp. Mark Shields, and Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master V.W. Bro. David Blair PGStB, , who is regarded as the founder of the Clarets in Cambridgeshire. What began as a Provincial initiative has since grown significantly, with Clarets groups now established across numerous Provinces throughout England and Wales.
The evening commenced at 6.00 pm with a Chapter of Instruction, opened and closed by the Clarets, providing an excellent opportunity for learning, reflection and fellowship. The Clarets Chairman, Companion Hady Aouad, subsequently presented a paper which was warmly received and stimulated considerable interest and discussion amongst the Companions.
Looking towards the future, the Companions were pleased to elect Companion Paul Arnill, MBE, as Clarets Vice-Chairman. In accordance with the Clarets’ arrangements, Companion Paul will automatically succeed to the Chairmanship, taking office as Chairman from 1st January 2027.
The Clarets’ commitment to friendship and service was also demonstrated through the presentation of a £860 cheque to Excellent Companion Edmond Brookes, representing funds raised at the Clarets’ summer barbecue held at his home. The money will be donated to the Royal British Legion, providing a fitting example of how Masonic fellowship can extend beyond the Lodge and Chapter and make a positive contribution to the wider community.
Following the formal proceedings, the Companions gathered for a convivial dinner, where the atmosphere was one of warmth, friendship and true Masonic harmony. New friendships were formed and existing bonds strengthened, with experienced Royal Arch Companions sharing the festive board with newer Craft Masons. Like the stones of a well-built Temple, each individual brought something different, yet together they created something stronger.
The inaugural dinner was therefore much more than a first gathering. It was a celebration of Royal Arch Masonry, friendship, fellowship and service, while also demonstrating the Clarets’ important role in encouraging Craft Masons to discover the companionship and traditions of the Holy Royal Arch.
As the evening concluded, there was a shared sense that this was not an ending, but the laying of the first stone of a long and successful future for the Cambridgeshire Clarets.
Here’s to the first — and certainly not the last — Cambridgeshire Clarets dinner!
