Northampton, Huntingdon & Bedford Province Centenary
The Provincial Prior of Northampton, Huntingdon and Bedford, Right Eminent Knight Stephen John Churchill, was pleased to host the Annual Provincial Priory meeting, which this year also marked the Province’s Centenary. The Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master, Paul Raymond Clement, attended as Guest of Honour at the meeting held on 11th April 2026 at the Masonic Centre, Northampton. Nearly two hundred Knights were present, representing not only the Province but also others from across the country.
The morning began with a warm and convivial atmosphere, as many acquaintances were renewed. Knights greeted one another with evident pleasure, reminiscing about past meetings. The camaraderie on display clearly demonstrated the close-knit nature of the Knights Templar Order.
Rehearsals for the ceremony commenced early to ensure that all participants were fully prepared. Proceedings were expertly directed by the Provincial Grand Marshal, Eminent Knight Nigel Dickens, ably supported by his Deputy, Vince Tindale.
At 11:15 a.m. sharp, the Knights assembled, and the Provincial procession entered through an Arch of Steel formed by the Provincial Prior’s Bodyguard, under the command of E.Kt. Lee Freeman. The Provincial Prior then opened the meeting in due form and extended a warm welcome to all present.
Shortly thereafter, knocks at the door signalled the arrival of the Supreme Grand Master. His Grand Marshal, Right Eminent Knight Tim Wheeler, entered and requested admission for his Excellency. Once again, the Bodyguard formed the Arch of Steel, and the Grand Master, accompanied by his Executive, was ceremonially received into the Temple.
In his address, the Provincial Prior formally welcomed the Supreme Grand Master, along with visiting Right Eminent Knights, Very Eminent Knights, and brethren from across the country. The Provincial Banners were then paraded around the hall, proudly representing the Preceptories, all of which were well supported.
The Supreme Grand Master delivered an inspiring address, offering encouragement and reflection to all assembled.
Eminent Knight Bill Caswell followed with an engaging and informative presentation on the history of the Province. He traced its development from its origins with the Victory, Perseverance, and Wendlynburgh Preceptories through to the fourteen that exist today. A commemorative book has been produced to mark the Centenary, providing a more detailed account of this history.
The ceremony continued with the appointment and investiture of those Knights who had been promoted to Provincial Grand Rank. The Provincial Prior also appointed members to his personal Bodyguard, who pledged their fealty with dignity and sincerity.
A highlight of the proceedings was a remarkable display of precision and discipline by the Bodyguard. For ten minutes, they performed a silent drill routine to a hushed and captivated audience, their movements executed in perfect harmony. The demonstration concluded to enthusiastic applause.
Following this, the remaining Priory business was conducted before the Supreme Grand Master retired. The Priory was then closed in due and ancient form, after which the Knights adjourned for refreshments.
The Festive Board that followed was a fitting conclusion to a memorable day, exemplifying the camaraderie and brotherhood of the Knights Templar, and reinforcing the enduring value of the Order and its principles.
