On Friday 1st September we were privileged to experience an extraordinary event when two Rose Croix Chapters came together for the first time for express purpose for sharing the work to Perfect a candidate. It was an experience we will all cherish forever.

The meeting was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The hosting chapter, Chapter of St Alban 336, opened and conducted their administrative work quickly and efficiently including the presentation of a Supreme Council certificate by the Inspector General. They then conducted the Third Point enabling us to share in a feast of fraternal union and then closed.

After a short break, the members of Ravenscroft Rose Croix Chapter opened and caused the dispensation to be read permitting, under the authority of Supreme Council, that the emergency meeting was able to be held at the date and location required. As the ballot has been taken at a previous meeting of the Chapter, the Most Wise Sovereign requested that those assembled retire for the Intermediate Degrees, it was at this point that a number of the officers from the hosting Chapter, Chapter of St Alban 336 assumed the roles they had rehearsed for and we followed with a work share this:

Intermediate degrees Tom Cousins (336)

1st point Mark Pedroz 30 (336)

2nd point James Davis 30  (418)

Collar and signs Dennis Holmes 18 (336)

When the Princes were asked to retire for the preparation of the 3rd Point, the room was reset in the usual manner and this portion was conducted by the Most Wise Sovereign of the Perfecting Chapter Dan O’Connell 18 (MWS 418).

The members of Ravenscroft then resumed their offices after the 3rd Point and closed the Chapter.

Both chapters then joined together under the banner the hosting Chapter of St Alban for a superb festive board but the Most Wise Sovereigns of each took wine with each other to demonstrate the shared loved of our most beautiful Order.

As the evening unfolded, there was a real sense of camaraderie and respect shared among the members. Ideas were exchanged and discussed, about taking the steps to repeat and improve this type of Hosting & Visiting meeting. It was heartwarming to see how their dedication to Masonry had forged deep bonds of friendship.

This unique meeting showcased the true essence of Freemasonry – unity, fraternity, and unwavering commitment to the Ancient and Accepted rite.

This was the first time two chapters had met in such as way…but it won’t be the last.