Provincial Grand Chapter of Monmouthshire

In England and Wales, there is an indissoluble link between Craft Freemasonry and the Royal Arch, with the Royal Arch being considered the completion of a Freemason’s journey in Pure Antient Masonry. Craft Masons are, therefore, actively encouraged to become members of the Royal Arch to further develop and enrich their understanding of Freemasonry. The Royal Arch has four ceremonies: the exaltatio

n ceremony to admit new members and an installation ceremony for each of the three Principals. The exaltation ceremony is in two parts: a rather dramatic presentation of the principles of the Order followed by three Lectures in which the history, symbolism and principles of the Royal Arch are further explained. Like Craft Freemasonry, the Royal Arch is open to men of all faiths. Its members, called Companions, meet in Chapters under a Grand Chapter. Chapters are presided over conjointly by three Principals, and the Grand Chapter by three Grand Principals, with a Pro First Grand Principal when the First Grand Principal is a Royal Prince. Chapters are organised as a Metropolitan area or Provinces, each with a local Grand Superintendent in charge. In the Provincial Grand Chapter of Monmouthshire, there are 14 Chapters.