Most recently Beauchamp Lodge attached itself to the Ravensbrook Chapter No. 8936 with a view to repurposing the Ravensbrook Chapter to become the new West Kent Military Chapter. In time the Chapter will adopt the Beauchamp Lodge No. 1422 and its name.

The Chapter meets at Oakley House, Bromley, three times per year on the following dates:

• 1st Wednesday in March (Installation)
• 1st Wednesday in June (repurpose date 2024)
• 1st Wednesday in November

Why should Master Masons join the Holy Royal Arch Chapter

The Royal Arch Degree is the climax of Ancient Craft Masonry and Masonic Symbolism. It is described as "the root and marrow of Freemasonry". Furthermore it is the key to admission to so many other orders and degrees, in which one could express an interest at some future date. It is the logical progression in pure Ancient Freemasonry, which comprises both the Craft and the Royal Arch.

The lessons in the Craft instruct a Freemason to improve his relationship with those whom he may come into contact with, and to practice the principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth in his everyday life.

The Royal Arch focuses the mind on, and clarifies what has gone before thus making it complete and perfect. It is a most beautiful ceremony, colourful, thought provoking and interesting. It focuses on the rebuilding of the Temple, and is a dramatic story, invoking sensations of humility, reliance and dependence on our sublime creator. The Royal Arch follows on from the third degree, seeks and finds that which was lost, and is the only way that a Brother can complete the journey through pure Ancient Freemasonry. The beautiful lesson that this degree teaches, places man in the context of eternity.

A Brother becomes a complete Mason when he takes the Holy Royal Arch degree.

Companionship

Members of the Royal Arch are known as "Companions". The word Companion is said to be derived from two Latin terms, someone with whom you shared your bread, and who could be trusted with your life. Therefore a deep respect and consideration for ones Companions is encouraged, and the phrase "To unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness" has particular significance.

Membership

A Brother must have been a Master Mason for four weeks and upwards before being admitted in to the Royal Arch. Those Brethren who would like to join the West Kent Military Chapter, should enquire through Mark Eyles-Thomas the Royal Arch Liaison Officer and Chapter Membership Officer email: met@met310.com

Chapter of Improvements

Please check with the Chapter DC for details of COI dates before travelling/attending.

General Purpose Committee (GPC) Meetings

The Chapter committee meetings are usually held following a regular convocation meeting (March, June and November). Venues, dates and times vary and are arranged to suit those attending. Dress is casual. Prior to setting off it is always wise to check with the Beauchamp Chapter WhatsApp group that the GPC is being held that evening (alternatively contact the DC by phone or email).

Annual Fees Due - 1st March 2024 (£55 - exclusive of dining, which is approx. £34 per meal depending upon choice of menu)