The Oakley Chapter No. 8958, in the province of West Kent, was consecrated on 8th December 1986, and meets at Oakley House, Bromley Common three times per year on the following dates:
- 1st Monday in March
- 1st Monday in June
- 1st Monday in November (Installation)
The Founding members of the Chapter were predominantly members of Oakley Lodge, and this strong connection with the Lodge remains to this day. Oakley Chapter enjoys a very strong membership of 30 members. We work to a high standard of the Domatic ritual. After every Convocation, a fun festive board is enjoyed by all.
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 Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Charity 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 conclude and 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 into the Royal Arch. Those Brethren who would like to join Oakley Chapter, should enquire through the Chapter Representative for the Lodge as detailed within any Oakley Lodge Summons, or please do contact us by emailing oakleylodge8958@gmail.com
Regular Convocations
Three times a year – 1st Monday in March, June and November (Installation).
Chapter of Improvements
Three or four COI’s are held, in the weeks leading to a Convocation.
Committee Meetings
Held as necessary.
Annual Fees Due – There are two levels of fees, one includes dining fees and one excludes dining fees. Please do contact us for current fees.
Any Companion being aware of a member being unwell or in need of assistance should pass this information onto the Almoner.