Royal Arch (or ‘Chapter’) is the fourth and final stage in Pure Antient Masonry, as defined in the Act of Union of 1813 that created the current United Grand Lodge of England.
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Consecrated on 30th May 1893, Royal Alfred Chapter holds registration number 777 in the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in England making it the second oldest chapter in Surrey. Based in Guildford the chapter has historically drawn members from its linked craft Lodge, also number 777, but also has had links to Cranleigh Lodge, and Kings College School Wimbledon.
It is a tradition in the Chapter to hear a summary of the meeting held 100 years previously, when convocations were held at a variety of restaurants and other venues around Guildford, before locating at the Masonic Centre in 1948, and subsequently to the new Centre built in 2006 at Hitherbury Close.
The Chapter takes great pride in its rich heritage, boasting current companions with family ties that span three generations. At its peak, membership reached an all-time high, but has since stabilized at a comfortable and intimate group of 18 companions.
It isn’t all about history!
Current membership is very eclectic and ranges through accountancy, IT, Health & Safety, the police, building surveying, engineering and other areas of skill.
The Chapter holds three Convocations each year, on the fourth Wednesday in January, March, and October, and is rightly proud of maintaining a high standard of ritual in a supportive environment.