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Welcome

This is the website of the Provincial Priory for the Province of Hertfordshire

I'm very pleased to welcome you to the website for the Provincial Priory of Hertfordshire and hope you find it helpful and informative. The full title of the Order is The United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta in England and Wales and Provinces Overseas, but most Masons know it simply as 'KT' or 'Knights Templar'. Candidates for membership must already be Craft and Royal Arch Masons, and also profess to the Trinitarian Christian Faith.

There are two degrees in the Order, Namely - Knights Templar and Knights of Malta.

The first being carried out at the Preceptory that you join and the second at a special meeting of which 3 Preceptories in the Province carry out.

We utilise the history and practices of the medieval Knights Templar as a basis for our ceremonies, although we have no direct link with those "Knights of Old". The Great Priory of the United Orders, which is based in London, manages the Order, via a number of Provinces or Provincial Priories throughout England and Wales and many other parts of the world.

A Province is made up of a number of private units called Preceptories. In Hertfordshire there are 16 Preceptories meeting at various Masonic Halls in many towns throughout the County. Their locations all are listed within this website together with the contact details of their Registrars.

I hope that in visiting this site, either as a member or interested visitor, that you will enjoy the content and gain a greater understanding of the United Orders and our activities.

If you are a Master Mason and a Royal Arch Mason and are interested in joining the Order of Knights Templar then email the Province using the following link Contact Vice-Chancellor (more information about the Preceptories and Hertfordshire Masonic Centres are contained in the website).

R.E.Kt A D White
Provincial Prior

Provincial Prior E Kt Alastair White was appointed to the office Provincial Vice-Chancellor in June 2015 ... Read more		Provincial Sub-Prior V.E.Kt. Michael Beaty was appointed to the office of Provincial Marshal on 27th June 2012 ... Read more
Provincial Vice-Chancellor Who are our members? Who can we accept? What will I need? Read more		Provincial Marshal   E.Kt. Lester Wellington was admitted to the Order in February 2015 and was ... Read more

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News

Macleod Lecture

10th February 2023

If you didn't attend this meeting and listen to the wonderful guest speaker, Kt Mike Neville, then you missed out! Kt Mike, a former Police Officer, is renown for his walks, talks and presentations throughout the world. We were lucky to have him attend our meeting last year and present one of his lectures. So what took place? The lecture was entitled "Sacred Secrets – Knights Templar Masonry, The Bible and Christian Faith" and Kt. Mike went into the depths of pointing out many of the key figures in the Bible that are connected with our Order. To keep you enthralled and hanging on to his every word, we were warned that, like last time, there would be a test at the end and there were certain Knights who did not want to be on the losing side again.

Did you know who the first King of Israel was? Why was Mount Moriah so important? Well if you attended you will, together with a whole host of information to help you understand our Order better. Looking forward to the next one.

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

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John F Cleeves 75th Anniversary

27th January 2023

A most enjoyable and very memorable evening at Cheshunt on Friday, when the 75th Anniversary meeting of John F Cleeves Preceptory No. 315 was held. In addition to the R.E. Provincial Prior, there were present two Past Provincial Priors - R.E. Kt. John Hay K.C.T. and R.E. Kt. Tony Lapsley K.C.T. and the V.E. Provincial Sub-Prior, Michael Beaty.

E. Kt. Cliff Garrett was installed into the Chair of the Preceptory for the fourth time, before the Knights were treated to a short resume of the life and career of John F Cleeves by the Registrar, V.E. Kt. Dave Sharman. The R.E. Provincial Prior was delighted to be able to present the Eminent Preceptor with the Past Preceptor's Collarette and Jewel which had belonged to the Past Provincial Prior, R.E. Kt. Alan Owen G.C.T. This had been retrieved by the Provincial Prior of Monmouth and South Wales, R.E. Kt. Paul Calderwood JP, who requested that it be returned to the Preceptory.

E. Kt. 'Pins' Poullais had arranged the production of a commemorative 75th Anniversary lapel pin, profits from the sale of which will be donated to the Eye Hospital. The R.E. Provincial Prior thanks, as always, the Provincial Escort and Bodyguard for their support in making this a very special evening.

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

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Temple Dinsley Meeting

24th November 2022

The meeting of Temple Dinsley Preceptory #283 took place yesterday at The Cloisters, Letchworth. The ceremony was the Installation of a new Knight - Thanos Papanaklis. The Right Eminent Provincial Prior was in attendance with his escorting officers and Bodyguard. Knight Thanos was proposed by the V.E.P.S.P. Michael Beaty who also had the pleasure of being the Preceptory Marshal for the ceremony. His seconder was a life long friend Knight Konstantinos Papadopoulous, who was admitted into the Order a few months ago. The Eminent Preceptor, Peter Fagg, Prov.2nd Con. performed the ceremony whilst the R.E.P.P Alastair White delivered the Charge to the new Knight. The Provincial Prior's Bodyguard added a little je ne sais quoi to the proceedings when called to assist in the ceremony. Well done.

After the Installation of the new Knight, V.E.Kt. Michael Beaty was presented with a token of thanks for his service to the Provincial Preceptory of Instruction by E.Kt. Lester Wellington, Prov.Mar. Accompanying the card signed by those who regularly attend the POI was an engraved Masonic Pocket Watch and a bottle of his favourite tipple to ward off the cold winter evenings.

The Brother Knights then had their Festive Board and enjoyed each other's company. Next meeting is in April 2023.

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

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Malta expands!

9th November 2022

KT is the shortened version of its long title: The United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta. In the Province of Hertfordshire, each Preceptory has a Priory attached to it in which is installed an Eminent Prior every 12 months. This Priory is usually opened in shortened form after the opening and closing of the Preceptory but there are a handful of Preceptories that open in full and admit Candidates into the Order. These are; Crossed Swords 618, Stuart 28 and Melita 37, the former should admit candidates from all of the Preceptories in the Province, as is the wish of the Provincial Prior, with the exception of the latter two Preceptories who admit their own Candidates. Should Candidates be unable to attend the Malta meeting of Crossed Swords in November they can attend one of the other two Preceptories who hold their Malta meetings in February and October respectively.

On Wednesday 9th November 2022, the Malta meeting of Crossed Swords took place at Mayflower Place where no less than eleven Candidates from five different Preceptories were admitted into the Degree of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta. The ceremony was conducted by the Provincial Vice-Chancellor, who is the Eminent Preceptor, and so ably assisted by the Officers of his Preceptory. The Right Eminent Provincial Prior was also in attendance on an Official visit which added to the pressure of the offices involved in and conducting the ceremony.

If you haven't taken your Malta degree yet, please speak to your Registrar who will arrange it for you.

The Crossed Swords Preceptory 618 is the Bodyguard Preceptory for the Masonic Province of Hertfordshire. To be able to join this prestigious Preceptory, you must have been invested as a Bodyguard member or be a full serving member of the Bodyguard on the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard.

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

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50 years in the Craft

1st November 2022

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Two New Knights for Hertfordshire

17th October 2022

The Preceptory of Saint Alban 266 was pleased to install two new Knights into the Order and into the Province of Hertfordshire in particular. Companions Damon Humhreys and John Gamble participated in a double ceremony at Ashwell House yesterday which was an amazing. They can be seen flanking the Eminent Preceptor and his Constables in the front row. Damon is sitting to the right of the Eminent Preceptor and John to his left as you view the picture.

The Preceptory is looking forward to admitting another new Knight at their February meeting. A little less pressure for the Marshal.

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

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Melita Priory 37

15th October 2022

A meeting took place today at the Melita Preceptory #37 at Halsey Hall, Cheshunt. Having opened the Preceptory, The Right Eminent Provincial Prior processed into the Preceptory under an Arch of Steel. Five Knights were presented with their Great Priory certificates by the Provincial Prior in a detailed, factual and sometimes amusing manner.

The Preceptory was closed in due form and then the Melita Priory was opened in full. The Eminent Prior Steve Cronin then proceeded to admit 7 knights int the Order and all who took part in the Ceremony did a fantastic job.

The Eminent Prior then went on to install his successor, John Fenoughty, as the new Eminent Prior of the Melita Priory.

All in all a good time was had by all. Something to be proud of and always worth a visit to one of the three Preceptories in the Province who do the full ceremony.

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

 

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Lots happening in Somerset

24th - 26th September 2022

On Saturday 24th September 2022, our Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. Alastair White, together with his Provincial Banner Bearer, E.Kt. Carlton Patterson, attended the Great Priory Church Service held at Wells Cathedral, Somerset. There was a good turnout of Brother Knights from all over the Provinces, including of course, the Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master Paul Raymond Clement. Unfortunately, the day also marked the calling of the Provincial Prior of Somerset, R.E.Kt. Barry Burridge KCT, by the Great Captain of our Salvation who had been quite ill for a number of months.

Monday 26th September 2022 was the date for the Provincial Priory meeting of Somerset where R.E.Kt. Barry Burridge KCT was to step down after 16 years as their Provincial Prior. Our Provincial Prior was in attendance accompanied by his Vice-Chancellor E.Kt. Rhys Madoc and his Provincial Marshal E.Kt. Lester Wellington.

The Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master installed the Provincial Prior Nominate, Paul Jeffrey Davis P.Gt.Std.B.(B.) as the new Provincial Prior. He then installed his Sub-Prior E.Kt. Allan Sheppard and appointed and invested the remaining officers of the Province as well as first appointments and promotions.

All in all, a long weekend of Masonic KT activity in Somerset.

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Macleod Preceptory 463

16th September 2022

A very enjoyable meeting of Macleod Preceptory No. 463 last night.

After the Installation of E. Kt. Alan Lewis as EP by the Provincial Sub-Prior, I then had the pleasure of investing all those who received appointment or reappointment to, or promotion in, Provincial Rank in June with their Provincial Malta ranks.

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Is it the First or Last Meeting?

19th July 2022

On record breaking days for the hottest day ever in the UK, Hatfield Preceptory held their annual installation meeting at the Radlett Masonic Hall this afternoon. In attendance was the Right Eminent Provincial Prior Alastair White. He was accompanied by a number of Provincial Officers as his escort and a contingent of his Bodyguard.

It was pointed out that this meeting could be described as the last meeting of the year - before the summer break or indeed the first meeting of the year where newly appointed and invested Knights performed their duties, Either way, the meeting went extremely well in the air conditioned Temple.

Knight Jem Jarvis was presented his Knights Templar certificate and the Provincial Prior was made an honorary member of the Preceptory. Fortunately, the dining room was also air conditioned and the Brother Knights dined in comfort. Here's looking forward to resuming our gatherings after the summer break.

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

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Great Priory 2022

18th May 2022

A very enjoyable meeting of Great Priory at Freemasons’ Hall yesterday, where the ME & Supreme Grand Master was pleased to confer honours on the following Knights:

Through Hertfordshire:
Promotions to P.Gt.Reg. for V.E. Kts. John Linley and Gavin O’Sullivan.
1st Appointments to P.Gt.A.-de-C. For E. Kts. Geoff Cheshire and David Sodey.

Through the Waller Rodwell Wright Preceptory (Malta)
1st Appointment to P.Gt.A.-de-C. for E. Kt. John Campbell.
Hearty congratulations to all those who received honours.
Click pic to see more pictures in the Gallery

Click pic to go to the Gallery for more pictures

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Province

Provincial Officers Read more		Preceptories   Read more
Events Read more		P O I Read more
Masonic Venues Read more		Bodyguard   Read more
Warden of Regalia Read more		The Pilgrims Read more
Precepts of the Order Read more		Appointments & Promotions Read more

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Provincial Prior

E Kt Alastair White was appointed to the office Provincial Vice-Chancellor in June 2015.

He was installed as a Knight of the Order in The Harold Devereux Still Preceptory No. 543 in September 2006, and subsequently served two years as Eminent Preceptor between 2011 and 2013.

Appointed to the RE Provincial Prior's Bodyguard in 2008, he served as a member until 2012, when he received his first Provincial Appointment to Past Provincial Standard Bearer (VB), and became the Deputy Commander. He continued in that capacity until his appointment as Provincial Vice-Chancellor in 2013.

In 2010, he joined the Crossed Swords Preceptory No. 618; in 2013, the Macleod Preceptory No. 463; and in 2015, the Charles Herbert Perram Preceptory No. 409. He is currently the Registrar of both the Macleod and Charles Herbert Perram Preceptories.

In May 2016, he was appointed and invested to active rank in Great Priory as the Deputy Great Sword Bearer.

On Thursday 2nd September 2021 he was Installed as the Provincial Prior for Hertfordshire by the Most Excellent and Supreme Grandmaster Paul Clement.

Provincial Sub-Prior

V.E.Kt. Michael Beaty P.Gt.Reg. was appointed to the office of Provincial Marshal on 27th June 2012.

He was Installed as a Knight of the Order in the Stuart Preceptory No.28 on 26th February 1990, taking his Malta degree on 27th June 1990, and was Installed as Eminent Preceptor on 18th October 1999, going on to serve as Deputy Marshal, then Marshal for 9 years, until his appointment as Provincial Marshal in 2012.

He received his first Provincial Appointment as Provincial Standard Bearer (V.B.) in 2000 and was promoted to Provincial 1st Constable in 2005. Currently he is, as well as being Provincial Marshal, the Provincial Warden of Regalia, an office he has held since 2010.

In 2006 he joined the Macleod Preceptory No.463, and in 2015 the Charles Herbert Perram Preceptory No.409. In 2014 he was elected an Honorary Member of the Temple Dinsley Preceptory No.283, rescinding this in 2019 to become a member in order to take office and assist in the re-building of the Preceptory. He was also elected an Honorary Member of the John F. Cleeves Preceptory No.315 in 2013. He is currently the Marshal in the Macleod, Charles Herbert Perram and Temple Dinsley Preceptories.

He received his first appointment in Great Priory in 2009 when he was appointed and invested as Past Great Warden of Regalia. Promoted to Past Great Standard Bearer (B) in 2015, he was further Promoted to Past Great Registrar in 2020.

The Right Eminent Provincial Prior Alastair White was pleased to appoint, invest and install him as the Provincial Sub-Prior at the Provincial Priory on 23rd June 2022.

Provincial Vice-Chancellor

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Provincial Marshal

E.Kt. Lester Wellington Prov.Mar. was admitted to the Order in February 2015 and was immediately drawn towards the Provincial Prior's Bodyguard as something he would love to be involved with. He took his Malta degree at the Crossed Swords Preceptory in November of that year. Lester was installed as Eminent Preceptor of the Preceptory of Saint Alban 266 under the Rule of Six during the COVID pandemic in October 2020 and remained in the Chair for the year 2021-22 where he installed his successor. In 2017 he was appointed as the Deputy Bodyguard Commander, a post he held for four years before being appointed Deputy Provincial Marshal in September 2021.

On 23rd June 2022 the Right Eminent Provincial Prior was pleased to appoint him as Provincial Marshal for Hertfordshire.

Events

Events       Read more		Official visits     Read more
Calendar       Read more		Quick Look calendar     Read more

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Herts Meetings

Herts Meetings

POI

This is held, under the leadership and guidance of the Provincial Marshal, E.Kt. Lester Wellington, at The Masonic Hall, The Rose Walk, Radlett, Herts. WD7 7JS.

Commencing at 10.00am on the first Sunday of the months of February, March, April, June,September, October, November and December.

It has been formed for the purpose of helping the Knights of the Province to learn and practise the drill and ritual, and so improve the standards throughout the Preceptories in the Province of Hertfordshire.

A Drill session is held during every P of I and is particularly beneficial to those Knights who have recently come into the Order.

Pilgrims

Who are the Hertfordshire Pilgrims?

An enthusiastic and happy band of Knights (formerly pilgrims) formed to travel around the Province to assist and support Preceptories in need, by swelling their attendance, taking office for the meeting, assisting in ritual, or whatever else is required.

Please enrol to receive a list of dates and meeting details, then a summons for each meeting. You can support whenever you choose with no obligation to attend meetings other than those you select.

Hertfordshire Pilgrims

Precepts of the Order

• Love, honour and fear God, walk after his commandments.

• Maintain and defend the Christian Faith and the honour, dignity and interests of our Order.

• Be loyal to your Sovereign, dutiful to the Grand Master and obedient to those who rule over you.

• Prefer honour to wealth.

• Be just and true in word and deed.

• Give no willing cause of offence to any; but, while opposing wrong and injustice, deport yourselves courteously and gently.

• Assist the distressed, the widow and the fatherless.

• Eschew all debasing employment, recreation and company; abhor pride and selfishness and so raise the standard of chivalrous honour, striving for the welfare of your Brethren

Contact

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Active Officers
in the Province

THE PROVINCIAL PRIORY OF HERTFORDSHIRE

Province reconstituted 8th November 1933
by the M E and S Grand Master
Field-Marshal HRH the Duke of Connaught and Strathearne KG

PROVINCIAL PRIOR
R.E.Kt. Alastair D White

PROVINCIAL SUB PRIOR
V.E.Kt. M D Beaty, P.Gt.Reg.

PROVINCIAL CHANCELLOR
E.Kt. J D Roberts, P.Gt.A.-de-C.
5 Priory Gate, Thomas Rochford Way, Cheshunt, Herts EN8 0SG
01992 444689

PROVINCIAL VICE CHANCELLOR
E.Kt. R Madoc, P.Gt.W. of R.
v-chan@ktherts.com
 

PROVINCIAL MARSHAL
E.Kt. L D Wellington,
07956 523060
Marshal@ktherts.com

PROVINCIAL TREASURER
V.E.Kt. E Misselke, P.Gt.Reg.
16, Lakeside, Enfield, Middlesex  EN2 7NN
0208 363 0410
ericmisselke@yahoo.co.uk

PROVINCIAL REGISTRAR
E.Kt. M Trembling

registrar@ktherts.com

COMMANDER
E.Kt. D SODEY, P.Gt.A.-de-C.

Dep. COMMANDER
E.Kt. R BISHOP, P.Prov.St.B.(B.)

REGISTRAR
Kt. D P HOLMES

Provincial Prior's Bodyguard

COMMANDER
E KT David SODEY, P.Gt.A.-de-C

COMMANDER
E.Kt. David SODEY, P.Gt.A.-de-C

Dep COMMANDER
E.Kt. Roy BISHOP

REGISTRAR
Kt. Dennis HOLMES

MEMBERS OF THE BODYGUARD - 2022/23

Kt. P Ellis, E.Kt. W G Cooper,
Kt. M Williams, E.Kt. J F E Fenoughty, E.Kt. S D Cadwell,
Kt. J Thorne, E.Kt. P D Ison

What is the Bodyguard?

The Provincial Prior’s Bodyguard is a team of Knights drawn from Preceptories in the Province of Hertfordshire, who provide ceremonial duties when the Provincial Prior is visiting a Preceptory, and at the Annual Meeting of Provincial Priory, and the Provincial Service of Praise.

When the Provincial Prior formally visits a Preceptory, members of the Bodyguard attend and form an Arch of Steel for his Procession in, and the Recession out of, the Preceptory. At the Annual Meeting of Provincial Priory, and the Service of Praise, they perform a variety of other tasks to generally assist the Provincial Marshal with the physical arrangements on the day.

Membership of the Provincial Prior’s Bodyguard is by invitation, and selection of New Knights to join this select team takes place annually, usually in March or April. Nominations can made by Preceptory Registrars and Marshals. A Knight’s membership of The Bodyguard ceases when he receives Provincial Rank. A member of the Bodyguard must also be a Knight of Malta.

Past and Present members of the Bodyguard have the privilege of being able to join the >Bodyguard Preceptory – Crossed Swords No 618.

Individual members can enjoy the close bond of friendship that Bodyguard membership generates, and they witness and take part in the Temple and Malta ceremonies on a more frequent basis than they would if only attending their own Preceptory or Priory. This assists them to pass through the offices of their own Preceptories, and benefits those Preceptories by having more experienced, capable, and dedicated officers.

Active Officers
in the Province

E. Kt. John David Roberts, P.Gt.A.-de-C. to Past Great Herald
E. Kt. Michael Kevin Chalkley, P.Gt.W. of R. to Past Great Standard Bearer (B)

E. Kt. Adrian Oliver Wells to Past Great Aide-de-Camp

Through Great Priory

E. Kt. Ian Douglas Brooks to Past Great Herald

E. Kt. John Howard Offord to the active office of Great Aide-de-Camp

Sub-Prior
V.E.Kt. M D Beaty, P.Gt.Reg.

Prelate
E.Kt. B S Searle P.Gt.Her.

Chancellor
E.Kt. J D Roberts P.Gt.A.-de-C.

1st Constable
E.Kt. J S Street

2nd Constable
E.Kt. J A Anderson

Treasurer 
V.E.Kt. E F H Misselke P.Gt.Reg.

Registrar
E.Kt. M P Trembling

Vice-Chancellor
E.Kt. S R Madoc P.Gt.W. of R.

Marshal
E.Kt. L D Wellington

Deputy Marshal
E.Kt. R Bishop
E.Kt. D R Nolan

Almoner
V.E.Kt. L J B Butler P.Gt.Reg.

Herald
E.Kt. M W R Johnson
E.Kt. G Long

Standard Bearer (B)
E.Kt. N Phillips

Standard Bearer (VB)
E.Kt. W G Cooper

Banner Bearer
E.Kt. A Allen

Sword Bearer
E.Kt. P Ison

Aide-de-Camp
E.Kt. S Taylor
E.Kt. D J Kirby

Warden of Regalia
E.Kt. M Pateman

Captain of Guards
E.Kt. J Thorne

Guard
E.Kt. C P M Mootien P.Prov.St.B.(B.)

Past 1st Constable
E.Kt. J H W Ellis
E.Kt. K R Gamblin

Past 2nd Constable
E.Kt. M J McGeever

Past Standard Bearer (B.)
E.Kt. D J Edwards
E.Kt. M P Ouzman

Past Sword Bearer
E.Kt. J F E Fenoughty

Past Chamberlain
E.Kt. M F Capobianco

COMMANDER
E.Kt. C R PATTERSON

Dep. COMMANDER
E.Kt. J F E FENOUGHTY

REGISTRAR
Kt. D P HOLMES

Official Visits

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Preceptories in Hertfordshire

Stuart 28       Meeting at : Halsey Masonic Hall, Watford Hertfordshire WD18 0JE Keystone Preceptory Read more
Melita 37       Meeting at Halsey Masonic Hall, Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 8NJ     Read more
Preceptory of Saint Alban 266   Meeting at : Ashwell House, 67 Verulam Road, St Albans Hertfordshire AL3 4DW   Keystone Preceptory Read more
Temple Chelsin 269     Meeting at : Mayflower Place Masonic Centre, Mayflower Place, Hertingfordbury Hertfordshire SG14 2LH Keystone Preceptory Read more
St John the Evangelist 281     Meeting at : Ashwell House, 67 Verulam Road, St Albans Hertfordshire AL3 4DW Keystone Preceptory Read more
Temple Dinsley 283     Meeting at : The Cloisters, Barrington Road, Letchworth, Hertfordshire, SG6 3TH     Read more
John F Cleeves 315     Meeting at : Halsey Masonic Hall, Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 8NJ   Read more
Joseph Moffett 383     Meeting at : Halsey Masonic Hall, Watford Hertfordshire WD18 0JE   Read more
Charles Herbert Perram 409   Meeting at : Halsey Masonic Hall, Watford Hertfordshire WD18 0JE   Read more
Royston Preceptory 416   Meeting at : Masonic Hall, Royston Hertfordshire SG8 9AP   Read more
Hatfield Preceptory 424     Meeting at : The Masonic Hall, Radlett Hertfordshire WD7 7JS   Read more
MacLeod Preceptory 463     Meeting at : The Masonic Hall, Radlett Hertfordshire WD7 7JS   Read more
Harold Devereux Still 543   Meeting at : The Masonic Hall, Radlett Hertfordshire WD7 7JS     Read more
Standon Priory 581     Meeting at : Sawbridgeworth Masonic Hall, Sawbridgeworth Hertfordshire CM21 9AJ   Read more
Crossed Swords 618     Meeting at : Mayflower Place Masonic Centre, Hertingfordbury Hertfordshire SG14 2LH   Read more
Jacques de Molay 670     Meeting at : Halsey Masonic Hall, Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 8NJ     Read more

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Jacques de Molay 670 Consecrated 13th October 2007 Meeting at : Halsey Masonic Hall, Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 8NJ Contact Registrar: E.Kt. S Coath Email: steve@coath.info Tel: 07973 503529 Regular Meetings: 2nd Wednesday January, 2nd Wednesday June Installation: 2nd Thursday September

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Hertfordshire
Masonic Venues

Barnet	Berkhamsted	Bushey
Bushey Heath	Cheshunt	Harpenden
Hertford	Hertingfordbury	Letchworth
Linslade	Luton	Radlett
Royston	Sawbridgeworth	Southgate
St Albans	Watford	Map

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Map of Hertfordshire
Venues

About Knights Templar and Knights of Malta

Knights Templar Read more		Knights of Malta Read more
Warden of Regalia Read more
History of the Province Read more		W Stuart 1861 Painting Read more

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A Short History of the First Fifty Years of the
Knight Templar Province of Hertfordshire

(with acknowledgement to E Kt Prof. Reinhardt Waldsax)

The Province first came into existence in 1840 with the formation of Watford Encampment under the guidance of William Stuart Sen., who subsequently ruled the Province as Provincial Grand Commander. In 1861, William Stuart became Grand Master of the Order and appointed George Francis as his successor in Hertfordshire, at the same time sanctioning that Watford Encampment should be known as Stuart Encampment. Francis remained as Provincial Grand Commander until his death in 1879 and it would seem that the Province died with him, there being no recorded minutes of the Province’s existence after this time.

Stuart Encampment, which had been renamed Stuart Preceptory, struggled on.

In the meantime, a ruling had been established that a Province must have a minimum of three Preceptories, and consequently a concerted effort was made in 1930 by Stuart Preceptory to form two new Preceptories – one at St. Albans and another in the Hertford region. As a result, the Preceptory of St. Alban, No. 266 was Consecrated later that year, followed by Temple Chelsin Preceptory, No. 269 a year later in 1931.

With three Preceptories now in existence, overtures were made by Stuart Preceptory to the Grand Master’s Council for a new Provincial Priory of Hertfordshire to be formed.

They replied that they thought the interests of the Order would best be served by the union of the two Provinces of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. This decision was met with considerable opposition from the three Preceptories, and after a considerable amount of manoeuvring, official confirmation came on 20th May 1933 that the Grand Master had sanctioned the formation of the Province of Hertfordshire and that VE Kt John F. Cleeves, KCT, PGtHer was to be the new Provincial Prior.

The new Province was subsequently Constituted at the Chancery of the Orders, Great Queen Street, on November 8th 1933 by the M.E.& Supreme Pro Grand Master, The Rt.Hon. The Earl of Harewood, KG, DSO, GCT and the Provincial Prior appointed the Rev.Bernard W. Harvey as his Sub-Prior.

Two more Preceptories quickly followed, St. John the Evangelist, No. 281 at Barnet in 1936 and Temple Dinsley, No. 283 at Hitchin the following year. With the advent of War, the Province met from 1940 to 1945 at Duke Street and dined occasionally at the Café Royal.

In 1946/7 the Provincial Prior, due to old age and showing signs of ill-health, decided that he would retire from office in 1948, and his last duty immediately prior to the Installation of his successor, his Sub-Prior, the Rev Bernard William Harvey, was to Consecrate the John F. Cleeves Preceptory, No. 315, a fitting tribute to the memory of his name. The Consecration took place at the Café Royal on 31st January 1948 and was followed later in the day by the Installation of the Rev. Harvey as Provincial Prior, by the Grand Master, the Most Eminent and Supreme Knight, the Hon. Lord Harris, M.C., D.L. The Sub-Prior appointed was E Kt Henry Clive Huxley.

Regrettably, the new Provincial Prior was unable to carry out his duties due to ill-health and died about a year later resulting in the Hon. Lord Harris returning fourteen months after his last visit to Install E Kt Henry Clive Huxley as the third Provincial Prior. This time the ceremony was performed at Duke Street in a rather sombre atmosphere. The Sub-Prior this time was E Kt Jaggard.

The early 1950’s saw the passing of many old stalwarts of the Province including the ‘founding’ Provincial Prior of the re-Constituted Province, VE Kt John F. Cleeves, who died suddenly at the age of 84 years.

With their passing, other names were moving into prominence, such as Tom Norman and Richard (Dickie) Hammond, both of whom were to play a major role later on, and of course, there was also the constant presence of the Rev. Dr. Joseph Moffett, Great Prelate. Indeed, it was to the Rev. Dr. Joseph Moffett that Great Priory turned when in 1954 we saw the resignation from office of the Provincial Prior, VE Kt Henry Clive Huxley, KCT, and the death of his Sub-Prior, P.W.Jaggard. The situation demanded a quick decision, and Great Priory at short notice appointed the Rev. Dr. Joseph Moffett as the new Provincial Prior. Because the Grand Master was unable to attend the date of Provincial Priory, his Installation took place at the Café Royal, London on 17th September 1954 by special Dispensation.

Once again the Hon. Lord Harris was the Presiding and Installing Officer. The new Provincial Prior appointed the Vice-Chancellor, E Kt G.H.Horner, as his Sub Prior and his place was given significantly to E Kt Tom Norman.

The Rev. Dr. Joseph Moffett reigned as Provincial Prior until his death in 1962 and one wonders if his commitment to his pastoral duties as well as those of a Masonic nature had not taken its toll. At his death he was, in addition to being Provincial Prior, Provincial Grand Master in the Craft, Grand Superintendent in the Royal Arch, Provincial Grand Master in the Mark and Provincial Grand Master Designate in the Royal Order of Scotland - surely too much responsibility for one man to bear. His Sub-Prior in Charge, VE Kt G.H.Horner, having apparently expressed a wish to the Grand Master that because of his poor health, he should not be considered for any future role in the Province, it was announced by the Vice-Chancellor, E Kt Thomas William Norman, PGtStB(B) that he had been invited to become the new Provincial Prior.

He was Installed on 13th September 1962 by yet again, the Rt.Hon. Lord Harris, who was still the Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master, at St. Albans School, Romeland, St. Albans. After the meeting the Knights processed across the way to the Cathedral and Abbey Church of St. Alban, where they attended Evensong dressed in full regalia.

With E.Kt. Horner not wishing to continue as Provincial Sub-Prior because of ill health, the new Provincial Prior had appointed E Kt J.D.Perritt to that office and the role of Vice-Chancellor fell to E Kt Dickie Hammond. Thus began a period of expansion in a most active manner, which was to shape the future of the Knights Templar Order in Hertfordshire and was to become the legacy of Tom Norman’s thirteen year’s rule over the Province.

Consecrations of new Preceptories came on a fairly regular basis, the first only a year after his installation on 30th October, when Joseph Moffett Preceptory, No. 383 was consecrated at Watford. It was originally intended that the Preceptory should be centred at Berkhampsted so that it didn’t interfere with any recruiting of members for Stuart Preceptory, but in the end it found itself at Watford, meeting in tandem with Stuart and the two have successfully co-existed side by side ever since.

The next Preceptory followed five years later in 1968 with the Consecration of Charles Herbert Perram Preceptory, No. 409. Interestingly, by consent of the V.E. Provincial Prior of Northampton, Huntingdon and Bedford, the Preceptory was consecrated at Luton under the umbrella of the Province of Hertfordshire on 13th February. Tom Norman had earlier been instrumental in the formation of Ampthill Preceptory, the only one in Bedfordshire, and the permission given by our neighbouring Province to encroach upon their territory was a reciprocal gesture. The Preceptory initially met at Luton but moved to Radlett in 1975, where it has been ever since.

Following a call to arms by the Provincial Prior in which he expressed a wish to see Preceptories meeting at Royston, Welwyn, Sawbridgeworth and Hatfield, there was an immediate response, such that on 26th June 1969 Royston Preceptory, No. 416 was consecrated at Cheshunt in conjunction with the meeting of Provincial Priory, and a year later on June 4th 1970 Hatfield Preceptory was consecrated at The Cloisters, Letchworth and which was to meet at the Cranbourne Rooms, Hatfield before it’s move to Radlett in 1976.

The Consecration of MacLeod Preceptory. No. 463, the Past Preceptor’s Preceptory, took place at the Cranbourne Rooms, Hatfield on 23rd September 1975 and this proved to be the swan-song of the R.E. Provincial Prior, for Tom Norman was to die later that year. His had been an amazing career in Knights Templary in Hertfordshire, his reign having seen the number of Preceptories increase from six to eleven and the number of swords from about 180 when he took up office to somewhere in the region of 300 multiple membership at his demise – a truly outstanding achievement. His thirteen years had also seen other significant changes.

Gone were the ‘old brigade’, when it was decided in 1972 that an eye to future progression should see a reappraisal of those holding office in the executive. One of those who had offered his resignation as a result of the new policy was the Sub-Prior, VE Kt Perritt, who had served ten years in that office. In his place E Kt Sid Perry had been appointed and installed at the Provincial Priory meeting.

Following on from the Evensong at St. Albans Cathedral at his Installation, way back in 1962, Church Services in some form or other became a regular feature. These were arranged sometimes in conjunction with the KT Province of Essex, and held at various places in the Province, such as Bray, St. Peter’s Church in St. Albans, Baldock Parish Church of St. Mary the Virgin and even further a field such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Holborn Viaduct. Attempts had even been made to organise another Service at the Cathedral, but despite gaining the permission of the Dean, it did not materialise.

With the death of Tom Norman, E Kt Sidney Charles Perry was appointed Provincial Prior and was installed as such on March 26th 1976 by the Very High and Eminent Great Seneschal-in-Charge, Harold Devereux Still, the Grand Master also having passed the previous year.

The new Provincial Sub-Prior was E.Kt. Dr. Alan John Owen. Sid Perry’s approach was one of consolidation following his predecessor’s expansion policy and thus it proved to be, such that at his death in 1981, his ‘family’ of Preceptories, as he called them, were all well established and with the possible exception of MacLeod, which was causing the Provincial Prior some concern, all were reasonably successful. Two significant events were to loom during his last year, although he was not to see the fruition of either of them.

Firstly, plans were well in hand for the Church Service to be held in the Lady Chapel of St.Albans Cathedral, with the Service conducted by the Dean himself, Kt Dr. Moore.

Secondly, moves were afoot to further increase the number of Preceptories in the Province by extending the hand of welcome to Mediterranean Preceptory, No. 37, which was in Malta and experiencing difficulties.

As a result of these and the political situation on the island, it was looking to transfer to England. The other interesting thing of note to occur during Sid Perry’s last year was that new regulations had been issued by Great Priory, and that for the first time Provincial Priors were to be designated ‘Right Eminent’ instead of ‘Very Eminent’.

The transfer of Mediterranean Preceptory, No. 37 took place on New Year’s Day, 1982, and its inauguration occurred a week later on 9th January. One of the first actions taken by the members was to apply to Great Priory for permission to revert back to its original name of ‘Melita’, and this was finally granted. Thus Melita Preceptory, No. 37 became the twelfth in the Province and although numerically taking its place after Stuart, No. 28, the oldest Preceptory of the Province, it can justifiably claim to be the oldest in the Province, having been founded about 1815 and having in its possession a Warrant of Confirmation from the Grand Conclave of England dated 10th May 1850.

E Kt Dr. Alan Owen, Provincial Sub-Prior in Charge was appointed the new Provincial Prior and his installation took place on 16th April 1982 at Cheshunt by the Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master, Harold Devereux Still. He appointed as his Sub-Prior E Kt Frank Blackman, the long serving Vice- Chancellor, whilst his place was given to E Kt Ken Elder. A month later, the Order returned to the Cathedral at St Albans after a gap of twenty years for a Service conducted by the Dean, Kt The Very Rev. Dr. Peter Moore. It was to be some time before it returned again.

The following year saw the 50th anniversary meeting of the Province being held on Wednesday 22nd June at the Cloisters, Letchworth.

The Very High and Right Eminent Great Seneschal, Rt.Hon. The Lord Swansea, was in attendance and commented that Lord Harris, the Past Grand Master, who had played a not too insignificant part in the history of the Province, and who had been Great Seneschal at the time of the Reconstitution of the Province some fifty years ago, was still alive and still a member of our Illustrious Order. The celebrations of the Jubilee Year of the Province could do no better than to couple them with a recognition of his years of magnificent service.

A Painting depicting the
Installation of William Stuart
Grand Master

When Stuart Preceptory No.28 was approaching it’s 150th anniversary a large painting was found in the basement of Halsey Hall, Watford. It was almost black but a brass plate on it stated it depicted the Installation of William Stuart as Grand Master In 1861. Although in a very dirty state, it can be seen that the painting contains images not just of Knights, but also of horses, armour and banners.

When Kt. Steve Batty was Installed as the Eminent Preceptor in October 2015 he was determined to raise awareness of the painting and to commence some fund raising for the cost of restoring it. This is likely to be in excess of £3000 , a not inconsiderable sum, but well worth raising considering the importance of the painting. At his Installation Steve launched the fund by holding a raffle (which has also been held at every meeting during his year), and donating some regalia to be sold, with the proceeds being donated to the fund. It is hoped that other Preceptories within the Province will recognise the importance of the painting and support Stuart Preceptory’s efforts to raise the money to have it restored. Considering it’s historical importance, it would be good for it to be a project embraced by the Province as a whole, and not just left to Stuart Preceptory.

Bro. Knights and Preceptories of the Province of Hertfordshire, you can help fund this important restoration by sending contributions ( made payable to “Stuart Preceptory No.28) to the Preceptory Registrar.

Mike Beaty P.Gt.Reg, Provincial Sub-Prior

Knights Templar

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Qualifications Read more		Precepts Read more

The Warden of Regalia

As the Provincial Warden of Regalia the purpose of my Office is to advise all members of the Province on the correct regalia to be worn and assist them in obtaining this if required. But it is not just to help candidates and new members, but also to advise and assist Knights on attaining the Chair, and gaining appointments or promotions, both in Provincial Priory and Great Priory.

To carry out the responsibilities of the office correctly, it is essential to study the appropriate sections of the Statutes (165 - 194) as they are compulsory, not advisory.

OBTAINING REGALIA

Knights are advised to ensure that, if they purchase items on the internet from, say, eBay or from other sources, that the items are in compliance with the current issue of the Statutes.

Often regalia from the Order in other countries (particularly the U.S.A.) is being sold and is not the same. Also, there are still many obsolete items being sold, which have a place in a museum, but are not acceptable to wear.

REGALIA FOR A KNIGHT OF THE ORDER OF THE TEMPLE

REGALIA FOR A KNIGHT OF MALTA

Melvyn Pateman P.Prov.St.B.(V.B.)
Provincial Warden of Regalia
07595 599055


Email: Contact the Warden of Regalia

Knights Templar

The full title is The United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St. John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta in England and Wales and its Provinces Overseas. The Order is governed by the ‘Great Priory’ based in Mark Master Masons Hall, London under the command of the Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master Paul Raymond Clement, G.C.T.

The qualifications required to become a member are, that a Candidate must be a Master Mason; a Royal Arch Companion, and profess the Christian Faith with a belief in the Holy Trinity.
To become a Knight of Malta, a Brother must first be a Knight Templar. Each Preceptory comprises both a Preceptory of Knights Templar and a Priory of Knights of Malta, each being opened and closed in privacy to carry out the business required to maintain and promote the Orders.

The aims of the Orders are an expansion to those of Freemasonry in general, that inspires its members to an approach to life, which seeks to reinforce thoughtfulness for others, kindness in the community, honesty in business, courtesy in society and fairness in all things. Members are urged to regard the interests of the family as paramount; but importantly Freemasonry also teaches and practises concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help for those in need. Donations to local and national charities are made by the Preceptories individually. Additionally funds are raised to assist the St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital in Jerusalem, which are administered through the Province to a central fund at Great Priory.

The St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group is a Foundation of The Order of St John, the oldest charity in the world.
The Hospital Group is the main provider of eye care in the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. In 2014, the hospital treated 114,000 patients – a high percentage under the age of 18. Patients are treated regardless of race, religion or the ability to pay. The ritual has esoteric meaning and invites the candidate to reflect on the meaning of mystical resurrection.

KT Regalia

OBTAINING REGALIA

REGALIA FOR A KNIGHT OF THE ORDER OF THE TEMPLE

CORRECT WEARING OF REGALIA

PROVINCIAL OFFICERS BADGE

A Great Priory Officer's Badge

Qualifications to become a
Knight Templar of the United Orders

Candidates for this Order must be:

• 1) Craft Master Masons
• 2) Companions of the Royal Arch
• 3) Profess the Trinitarian Christian Faith

They are Installed first as Knights of the Temple and then, later on in a separate ceremony, as Knights of Malta. Although the Orders can only claim to have inherited these titles from the knightly fraternities formed during the Crusades, the beautiful and moving ceremonies are based on those early beginnings when a group of Knights were granted a place of habitation within the sacred precincts of King Solomon’s Temple by King Baldwin II of Jerusalem in 1118.

Enquiries re Joining KT should contact the Provincial Vice Chancellor

Knights of Malta

About ... Read more		Regalia Read more
Qualifications Read more

Knights of Malta

Meetings of this Order are held in a Priory and presided over by a Prior.

The Priory is normally only opened either to receive new knights of the Order, or at the installation of the new Prior. This degree of Christian Knighthood recounts the history of the Knights of Malta and their long struggle against the unenlightened. It traces their progress from the time they left Jerusalem until they reached their final home on the island of Malta.

An explanation of the traditional history is given as the final part of the ceremony. The ritual has esoteric meaning and invites the candidate to reflect on the meaning of mystical resurrection.

Malta Regalia

Malta Tunic
Malta Mantle
Belt with Frog (as worn in KT)
Sword & Scabbard (as worn in KT)
Gloves/Gauntlets (as worn in KT or optional Malta ones)
Malta Cross Jewel


Changes on becoming a Prior

Prior’s Cap badge

Changes on Appointment as a Provincial Officer

Mantle Badge of Office

Changes on Appointment as a Great Officer

Mantle Badge of Office
Collarette and Jewel

MALTA BADGE POSITION

Qualifications to become a
Knight of Malta

The ceremony to be a member of this Order takes place sometime after the Candidate has been installed as a Knight Templar and therefore be subject to the same three mandatory requirements of being a Knight Templar.

Links & Forms

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Templar Hymn Read more		Forms   Read more

• Facebook

KT Provincial Websites
and KT Links

• Facebook

Useful Masonic Links

Forms

Administrative FormsShould you wish to complete the forms by hand, download and print off the forms. You will need a PDF reader. Otherwise, click on the links where you can complete the form online.

The Templar Hymn

Privacy Policy

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The Website

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Date

Elements

i = 0;

while (!deck.isInOrder()) {
    print 'Iteration ' + i;
    deck.shuffle();
    i++;
}

print 'It took ' + i + ' iterations to sort the deck.';