From the desk of
M. Ex. Comp. Roland P. Mandeville
Grand Third Principal

January 26, 2011

The Grand First Principal of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Canada in the Province of Ontario and the Grand Council, wish you and your families a prosperous New Year. The beginning of the calendar year reminds us that we are still in the winter season with three more months of cold temperatures to live through.

It makes us more cognizant of the approaching Royal Arch Annual Convocation from April 19th to April 21st, 2012 in Woodstock, Ontario. It also reminds us of the hard work, dedication and information required to make Grand Chapter function. At this time the official visits of the Grand Superintendents should have been completed. The annual Chapter returns should be completed and submitted to Grand Chapter by January 31st, 2012. District meetings and election of the Grand Superintendents must be addressed prior to March 31st, 2012.

The Grand Executive Committee meets on March 31st, 2012 at Oxford Harris Chapter No. 18, 190 Thames Street, Ingersoll, Ontario. At that time the reports of all the standing committees are submitted and referred to the Grand Convocation. To the Chairmen of the Grand Executive Committees, Grand Chapter thanks you for your diligence and the hard work performed during the year.

The shortage of new members and lack of a quorum at meetings are two of the negative symptoms we are presently facing. A weak chapter does not attract new members, as there is little or no enthusiasm.

We should therefore try to encourage harmony among our companions. Declining membership appears to be a problem in all masonic bodies and RAM continues to experience this symptom as well.Monthly summons are sent to all companions. Try to become involved in the Chapter by reading theinformation and commenting on the content of the summons

There are a number of amalgamations that will occur during the coming year. I do not like to hear ofChapters going into darkness or amalgamating. However, some chapters have reached the point in their history where amalgamation or darkness seems to be the only solution.

An important highlight for each district is the distribution of Bursaries to deserving candidates. Please do not forget your chapter charities, kindly forward stubs and cheques to V. Ex. Comp. Doug Wilson. I thank you for your participation in Grand Chapter’s efforts to improve the state of Royal Arch masonry in Ontario, and look forward to the companions having another busy and exciting year.

Yours Fraternally,
Most Excellent Companion Roland P. Mandeville
Grand First Principal,
Royal Arch Masons of Canada in the Province Of Ontario

Page updated on 08/15/2011