In October, St Catherine’s Preceptory No 607 were pleased to receive the Provincial Prior of Surrey, R.E. Knight Michael Banbury, along with Provincial Sub Prior of Surrey, V.E. Knight Patrick Crossan, 15 Provincial Officers of the year and 13 members of the Provincial Prior’s Bodyguard. The Temple at Godalming was very full that day.



After the Preceptory was opened the Acting Provincial Marshal, E.Kt. Tim Ford, entered and advised the Eminent Preceptor, Em.Kt. Tom Adam that the R.E. Knight Michael J Banbury, Provincial Prior of Surrey, along with a number of Provincial Officers of the year, was in the ante-room and demanded admission to the Preceptory. The Provincial Prior of Surrey entered and was greeted by the Eminent Preceptor. The Provincial Prior was then saluted with 7 after which he greeted everyone and then took the Muster Roll and the minutes.

A Ballot was taken for Comp. Michael Ross, which proved in his favour. Comp Ross was admitted and Installed as a Knight of the Order of the Temple by the Eminent Preceptor and his Officers in an excellent manner. E.Kt. Charles Stoddart gave the Charge and E.Kt, Hugh Saville explained the Symbols.

The Almoner then gave an excellent report on the health of members of the Preceptory, following which he was congratulated by the R.E. Provincial Prior of Surrey for his report and the work he was doing as Almoner.

The Eminent Preceptor presented the R.E. Provincial Prior of Surrey with a cheque for £500 towards the St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital, which was very gratefully received.

The Knights then closed the Preceptory in peace and harmony and 40 Knights dined together in fraternal union at the Godalming Masonic Centre, toasting the health and happiness of their newly installed Knight.

Article and photographs by Chris Eley