February marked a truly historic milestone as Cantabrigia Chapter No.3532 celebrated its centenary, one hundred years of Royal Arch Masonry, companionship, and service.
The occasion was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests including the Grand Superintendent in and over Cambridgeshire, E.Comp. Mark Shields, together with Deputy Grand Superintendent, E.Comp. Michael Hinton PGStB, Provincial 2nd Grand Principal, E.Comp. Jon West PAGDC, and Provincial 3rd Grand Principal, E.Comp. Nick Leigh-Smith PPGSN, alongside many active Provincial Officers and visiting guests.
A particularly encouraging sight was the strong contingent of Cambridgeshire Clarets, a visible reminder of the bright future of Royal Arch Masonry within the Province. During the celebrations, Companion Hady Aouad, Chairman of the Cambridgeshire Clarets, presented the Centenary Warrant, a proud and symbolic moment reflecting both heritage and continuity.
The Chapter’s remarkable journey over the past century was thoughtfully brought to life by Excellent Companion Keith Dixon, who delivered an engaging historical overview filled with fascinating insights and memorable facts charting the Chapter’s development across generations.
Demonstrating both respect for tradition and an openness to evolution, the Chapter also announced its adoption of the Savage Ritual. This well-established alternative Royal Arch working places particular emphasis on clarity of language, strong narrative flow, and enhanced participation, helping Companions, especially newer members, to engage more deeply with the meaning and symbolism of the ceremony while preserving the dignity and solemnity of the Order. Its adoption reflects the Chapter’s forward thinking approach and its willingness to embrace practices that support learning, inclusivity, and the continued vitality of Royal Arch Masonry.
The celebratory festive board paid tribute to the Chapter’s earliest days, closely mirroring the menu of the inaugural meeting a century ago, with a seafood starter, pheasant main course, and a classic trifle dessert. This thoughtful nod to history added a further layer of meaning to an already memorable evening.
The centenary celebration proved to be a fitting tribute to a Chapter that has thrived for one hundred years, honouring its past, celebrating its present, and confidently embracing the future.
