Friday 18th September 2026 was a truly special evening for Richard De Montfichet Priory, as it marked a very welcome return home to Biggleswade, following 20 years of meeting at the Eaton Socon Masonic Hall.
There was a real sense of occasion in the air as the Knights gathered to celebrate not only this historic homecoming, but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the Preceptory’s history.
The evening was made even more memorable by the presence of the Provincial Prior, Stephen Churchill, who graciously took the chair to conduct the installation of John Hodgson as the new Eminent Preceptor. It was a proud and meaningful occasion, made all the more special by the attendance of the Provincial Sub-Prior, Russell Laxton, together with members of the Provincial Team, whose presence added greatly to the warmth and significance of the evening.
With the formal proceedings completed, the Knights retired to the Festive Board, where the true spirit of Knights Templar companionship came wonderfully to life. The room was filled with laughter, good humour, lively conversation and that unmistakable sense of friendship and brotherhood which makes our Order so special.
Old friendships were renewed, memories were shared, and new memories were made. It was one of those evenings that reminds us all that, whilst our ceremonies and traditions are at the very heart of what we do, it is the bonds of friendship and the pleasure of one another’s company that make our gatherings so memorable.
As the evening drew to a close, everyone departed with full bellies, broad smiles and, no doubt, a few happy memories to treasure.
After 20 years away, Richard De Montfichet Preceptory is finally home. And what a wonderful way to begin this new chapter!