Provincial Craft and Royal Arch Annual Meetings
Worshipful Brother David Graeme, who stepped down as the Provincial Grand Secretary and Scribe E after 4 Years.
On a bright spring morning, a sense of joy and anticipation filled the Clive Emson Conference Centre at the Kent Showground in Detling, as around 600 Freemasons from across East Kent gathered for the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Kent’s Annual Festival. The event, held on Friday 11th April 2025, was a day of celebration, recognition, and heartfelt fraternity, highlighting both the Provincial Royal Arch Chapter in the morning and the Provincial Grand Lodge in the afternoon.
The day began at 10:30 am with the Provincial Grand Chapter of East Kent Director of Ceremonies, Paul Pavitt, setting the tone by outlining the morning’s events. As the choir’s anthem sounded through the marquee, visiting dignitaries and guests from other Provinces, and the Provincial Executive, were warmly welcomed with applause. The head of East Kent Freemasons, Neil Hamilton Johnstone, then formally opened the meeting, extending a heartfelt welcome to all present.
Following formalities including the confirmation of minutes and reports, the spotlight turned to the investiture of 87 Companions receiving Provincial honours and promotions. Each name read aloud by Secretary, David Graeme, was met with enthusiastic applause, as the audience celebrated the achievements and dedication of their peers.
Special recognition was then given to two Companions who had gone above and beyond in their service. With moving citations read by David Graeme, the recipients received their awards to warm applause. In his closing address, Neil Hamilton Johnstone reflected on a year of progress and unity, citing the success of their recruitment and retention efforts. “Enjoy Freemasonry, enjoy the Royal Arch Chapter, and I wish you and your families health and happiness,” he said, leaving the audience uplifted and inspired.
After a lively and enjoyable lunch, filled with camaraderie and reconnection, the members returned to the Conference Room for the Provincial Grand Lodge meeting. With the same dignified energy as the morning, the Provincial Director of Ceremonies, Graham Cuthbert, guided the proceedings. Once again, guests and officers processed in and then Neil Hamilton Johnstone opened the session.
A moment of quiet reflection was observed for over 70 Freemasons who had passed away over the last year. Their memory was honoured with respect, a poignant reminder of the enduring brotherhood within Freemasonry.
The business of the meeting swiftly followed, including the highlight of the afternoon, the investiture of approximately 270 members to various ranks and positions. Though the numbers were large, the proceedings were carried out with precision and dignity, each award a testament to the service, spirit, and good humour of its recipient. Two additional awards for outstanding service to Freemasonry and the wider community were presented with heartfelt applause and admiration.
Tributes were also paid to those stepping down from their roles, with particular thanks given to the Provincial Grand Secretary, David Graeme, whose four years of dedicated service were marked by exceptional leadership.
Worshipful Brother David Graeme
In his concluding remarks, Neil Hamilton Johnstone celebrated the power of Freemasonry to change lives, pointing to the charitable work made possible through the 2025 Festival’s efforts. He encouraged continued generosity and highlighted the need to keep momentum going in recruitment and community engagement. Special thanks went to Sam Watson for the development of the East Kent Province members’ App, a modern step forward in connecting and informing members.
The meeting closed with a stirring rendition of Jerusalem and a collection for charity, marking the end of a day filled with pride, friendship, and gratitude.
As the members departed, there was a sense of renewal in the air. For those honoured, it was a day of recognition. For all, it was a reminder of the shared values and fellowship that define Freemasonry – integrity, service, friendship, respect and community.
Some photos from the morning Royal Arch Meeting
Some photos from the afternoon Craft Meeting
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