On the 11th April 2026, Kings Heath Masonic Hall was the venue for this year's annual convocation of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Worcestershire, presided over by the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E Companion Stephen J Wyer.

​

The ties between Craft and Royal Arch continue to be strengthened and the strategy of 'One Organisation - One Journey - One Future' was evident throughout the meeting, in - for example - the Provincial Scribe E's report, the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent's address and even at the Festive Board.

​

In his annual report, E Comp James Mulligan, the Provincial Scribe E, was able to describe how this strategy was delivering "a renewed confidence, stronger alignment and the opportunity to build our recent success". Indeed, the latest statistics on membership numbers and conversion rates represent the best growth results recorded for 30 years!

​

These results were not the only good news that emerged from the meeting!. The Learning and Development Team has been supporting the Membership Challenge with the 'Building the Temple' and Talking Heads' presentations which are delivered to chapters throughout the Province. The Worcestershire Freemasons' Volunteers have been been engaging with local communities and raising awareness of - and goodwill towards - freemasonry.

​

“The Learning and Development Team has been supporting the Membership Challenge with the 'Building the Temple' and Talking Heads' presentations which are delivered to chapters throughout the Province.”

​

Other significant events over the last year have included the roll out of the 'Hermes' database which is bringing about an improvement in the quality of data available and many Chapters' Scribes E have embraced the new system.

​

The outgoing Provincial 3rd Grand Principal, E Comp Brian Harper, was praised for his hard work and commitment whilst is post, and the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent invested E Comp Kevin Bryant as his successor.

​

During the year, Certificates marking 50 years' service to the Royal Arch had been presented to no fewer than seven Companions, demonstrating, perhaps, how passionate Royal Arch members are about the Order.

​

The meeting was also informed about promotions in Supreme Grand Chapter for E Comps Paul Milner and Charles Dyer (both to PAGDC) plus an appointment for our Deputy Grand Superintendent, E Comp Time Jones, as PGSwdB.

​

To round off a most enjoyable morning, a splendid luncheon was enjoyed by the Companions, the Rulers and the many guests who had attended from Provinces all over the country!

​

Please see below a video and gallery of the days events.