A Splendid Morning of Masonic Fellowship at Burton-on-Trent masonic centre Invictus Consistory No. 149  played a magnificent morning of high degree masonry, bringing together companions from across the region for a double-header of ritual excellence and camaraderie.

The day commenced with the meeting of Invictus Consistory, famously known as the Armed Forces Scarlet Cord. The highlight of the convocation was the installation ceremony, conducted with impeccable military precision and appropriate grandeur.

Distinguished Companion Nick Underhill was installed into the modern-day equivalent of the Commander’s chair in a truly military manner. The ceremony was expertly and masterfully directed by Distinguished Companion Dennis Freshwater, the current Provincial Grand Summus (PGSR) of Warwickshire in the Order of the Secret Monitor, who ensured the proceedings were both solemn and memorable.

The Consistory was honoured by the presence of a distinguished delegation, led by:

• Right Distinguished Companion Graham Holden, the Provincial Grand Summus (PGS) for the Midland Counties.
• Right Distinguished Companion Trevor Cavill, Deputy Provincial Grand Summus.
• Very Distinguished Companion Ken Walchester, Assistant Provincial Grand Summus.

Their attendance added immense lustre to an already prestigious occasion, underscoring the strong bonds of fellowship within the Midland Counties.

Following the close of the Consistory, the brethren transitioned seamlessly into the Sagittarius Britanniae Conclave of the Secret Monitor. The high standard of ritual work continued unabated as a flawless Princes Degree (Second Degree) was performed, further enriching the masonic journey of the candidate and providing a spectacle of excellent ritual for all those in attendance.

A Great Morning’s Work From the disciplined installation in the Scarlet Cord to the profound teachings of the Secret Monitor, the morning was a resounding success—defined by superb ritualism, strong leadership, and the enduring warmth of masonic companionship.