The Convocation of the Chapter of Air Unity No 7445 on Monday 28 September 2026 was marked by the Exaltation of a new Companion in the presence of E Comp Peter De Wolfe, AGSoj, Provincial Second Grand Principal, accompanied by an excellent retinue of Provincial Officers.
The Chapter was delighted to welcome Brother Fred Ventura, who entered the Temple as a Master Mason, indeed, a Past Master of Barra Hall Lodge No. 8096, a long‑standing feeder lodge into the Chapter. Any nerves he may have had were undoubtedly eased by the fact that his Principal Sojourner for the evening, E. Comp. Paul Bennett, PPrGReg, is also the Director of Ceremonies of his mother Craft Lodge. The ceremonial work of PS was carried out with warmth and assurance, setting the tone for a confident and enjoyable ceremony.
The Official Visit
E. Comp. Peter De Wolfe was accompanied by a fine body of Provincial Officers, with E. Comp. Kevin Saunders, PProvDepGDC, acting as Escorting Officer. His customary good humour and calm direction ensured the ceremonial and processional elements ran smoothly. Peter was also accompanied by: E. Comp. Jim Owens, Provincial Grand Sojourner, E. Comp. Paul Lowery, Provincial Grand Standard Bearer, E .Comp. Darren Winfield, Provincial Grand Steward, E. Comp. George Fraser, Provincial Grand Steward. Their presence greatly enhanced the dignity of the occasion and was warmly appreciated by the Chapter.
A particular highlight of the evening was the Mystical Lecture, delivered by E. Comp. Gordon Gregory, PPrGSN, in his customary excellent manner. His clear delivery and depth of understanding added greatly to the candidate’s experience.
Festival Funding
E. Comp. Andy Pearce, Scribe E – took the opportunity to introduce two Notices of Motion to kick‑start the Chapter’s Festival account Firstly, the Chapter proposed that £500 be donated to the Middlesex 2031 Festival, and secondly, that all alms collected for the duration of the Festival be directed to the Festival. Both motions were well received and demonstrated the Chapter’s commitment to supporting the Middlesex 2031
Middlesex Cares
During the evening, both E. Comp Peter De Wolfe and the Chapter’s Visiting Officer, E. Comp Dennis Hammond, PPrGReg, spoke about the importance of men’s mental health and the work of Middlesex CARES. Their remarks were thoughtful, timely, and resonated strongly with the Companions present.
There followed a splendid Festive Board followed, giving Companions the chance to break bread together, renew old acquaintances, and welcome new ones. The evening also featured a lively game of “heads and tails” for a bottle of Tamnavulin Double Cask Single Malt, raising £46 for the Festival. The prize was won by Comp. Arthur Sanchez to much applause.
