Technical Lodge No 5666Technical NO 5666 Blog
By Ed Thompson, Senior Deacon, Principal Sojourner 9th May 2026
When I picked up W Bro Paul Hillary (the to-be Provincial Grand Treasurer of the Province of Yorkshire North & East Ridings) the day was early and bright. I may have arrived outside of Paul's house at about five past eight in the morning. This was only five minutes after I picked up W Bro Steve Berry who was in good sprits and made for good company in the front of the car. Their close proximity of repsective dwellings made the journey to our desired destination very easy and efficiently done. Our destination, of course, was the Investiture of our new Provincial Grandmaster & Grand Superintendent Mark Iveson (and some of his key team members too) of the Province of Yorkshire North & East Ridings.
The weather was fair on the way to York and W Bro Berry, W Bro Hillary and I arrived at York Racecourse for just gone 9 o' clock. Walking towards the entrance, Paul and I discussed our love (or perhaps chemical reliance) of coffee. A few moments later we had taken the lift up to the top of the Knavesmire Stand, took off to the bar and refreshed ourselves with a cup of the aforementioned beverage and pottered around before this monumental event was due to start.
After getting suited, booted and jeweled up, we made our way downstairs to the first grand occasion - the Investiture of W Bro Mark Iveson as Grand Superintendent (this first occasion was in the Royal Arch Chapter). I will not dilate on much of any ceremony however it was particularly incredible to see something in both the Chapter and Craft Investitures - the active UGLE officers and their level of ritualistic profeciency, most notably the DCs and the Assistant Grandmaster & Past 3rd Grand Principal RW Steven Varley who initally took control of proceedings and later to invest W Bro Iveson.
I mentioned earlier that some of W Bro Iveson's key members were invested too, none more significant to the unit of Technical 5666 than W Bro Dr. Hiten Thaker. He was invested by the new Grand Superintendent as Deputy Grand Superintendent. Myself, W Bros Paul and Steve and other Technical Chapter companions in attendance were proud to be there to see him invested with this high honour in the flesh. For a moment I wanted to shout and cheer but I quickly reminded myself of the formality of this occasion. Hull City were playing in the Championship Play Offs the night before and I perhaps had some latent adrenaline in my system. I held my tongue.
After this ceremony concluded, it was time for lunch. The travelling Technical crew were temporarily seperated. Whilst myself and W Bro Steve were seated with some fine and distinguished brethren from Humber Lodge 57 - assumingly due to us all belonging to lodges South in Province. W Bro Paul however was placed on a different table in the seating plan. "You must've been on one of the important tables", I later remarked. "I don't know why I was but I'm definitely not important. I'm just happy because somebody had wine pre-ordered on ours", Paul replied. I was slightly envious of that but I remembered I was driving and gratefully drank my ol' reliable Guinness 0.0.
The food was very tasty, the company was joyful and before we knew it we all were downstairs again, ready for the next and final occasion - W Bro Iveson's investiture as Provincial Grandmaster.
The ceremony was simlilar in many ways to the Royal Arch Chaper one that preceded it. Now in the Craft, the newly invested PGM RW Bro Mark Iveson invested his Assistant Provincial Grandmasters, Wardens and other key officers in the Provincial Grand Lodge. This ceremony in the Craft was slightly more comprehensive. The Chapter one was intruiging but mainly focused on the investiture of the Three Prinicipals.
RW Bro Mark Iveson
Newly installed Provincial Grandmaster
& Grand Superintendent of Yorkshire North & East Ridings
Overall, all formal business in both ceremonies were filled with grandeur and unbelievably precise ritual - professionalism reigned.
When all was done, we headed back to my car with a slight hint of drizzle. Driving home, W Bro Paul was particularly jolly (thank you to whomever ordered that wine) and we three had enjoyable conversation for the full hour of journey. Unfortunately as I dropped them off, it was now heavily precipating but the warmth and comfort of a home was incoming. This was only a fleeting escape for Paul, however, as he had dog walk duties to fulfil. My late great-grandmother was Danish and I quite like the Scandanavian attitude of 'There is no bad weather, only bad choice of clothing' but I nervously hesitated in reciting that to him as I dropped him off.
We had a great time together. It is always fun to get out and visit, whether that is a Lodge, a Chapter, an Installation, a White Table Event or indeed a large Provincial event as we did today. It was made extra special for Technical 5666 too, by way of W Bro Hiten's investiture as DGS (Deputy Grand Superintendent).
Luckily, it doesn't stop here for Technical Lodge. On 1st August, many more Brethren and Companions are receiving honours and promotions in Freemasonry at the next Provincial Event - we will be supporting them in numbers, with smiles on our faces.
Technical Chapter 5666 - 5th May 2026 - By Anthony James - ProvGstB
At 6:30pm, the Companions were called to stand and receive the Three Principals, who proceeded to open the Chapter in the traditional manner.
The first order of business was for the MEZ to invest those officers who had been unable to attend the Installation meeting. Companion Allan McKay was invested as Scribe N, and Companion Nandakumar Pisharam was invested as Assistant Scribe E. Following this, the minutes of the last regular Chapter meeting were presented and confirmed by the Companions as an accurate record.
The evening then moved to its main item of business, an excellent presentation on the Banners of the Holy Royal Arch Chapters of Jerusalem. With Companions a little scarce on the ground this evening, it seems only fitting that the focus should be placed on the presentation delivered by E. Comp. Ken Eyre, from the Provincial Learning and Development Team, and what we learned from it.
E. Comp. Eyre gave a clear, engaging, and informative talk, helping to bring greater understanding to the symbolism and meaning behind the Royal Arch banners. His presentation added real interest to the evening and served as a valuable reminder that every emblem within the Chapter carries purpose, history, and significance.
The Twelve Tribes of Israel and Their Symbolism Within the Holy Royal Arch
Within the Holy Royal Arch in English Freemasonry, few symbols carry as much meaning as the Twelve Tribes of Israel and the banners displayed around the Chapter. These are far more than decorative pieces. They are deeply connected to the ceremonial and spiritual foundations of Royal Arch Masonry and draw heavily from the imagery and teachings of the Old Testament.
Under the English Constitution and the authority of the Supreme Grand Chapter, the Twelve Tribes form part of the wider symbolism of restoration, rebuilding, and the rediscovery of sacred truth.
The Historical Background
The Holy Royal Arch is based upon the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. This rebuilding effort was led by:
· Zerubbabel
· Haggai
· Joshua, also known as Jeshua the High Priest
The story is drawn mainly from the Biblical Books of Ezra, Haggai, and Nehemiah. It is a narrative of hope after destruction, rebuilding after loss, and the search for truth amongst the ruins of the past.
For Royal Arch Companions, the rebuilding of the Temple carries both a literal and symbolic meaning. It represents not only the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem, but also the rebuilding of the individual through wisdom, understanding, and spiritual growth.
The Twelve Tribes and Their Symbols
Each of the Twelve Tribes is associated with a traditional emblem representing particular virtues and characteristics.
· Reuben is represented by a man or human face, symbolising vision and humanity.
· Simeon is represented by a sword or city gate, symbolising justice and vigilance.
· Levi is represented by the breastplate or priesthood, symbolising sacred service.
· Judah is represented by the lion, symbolising kingship and strength.
· Zebulun is represented by a ship, symbolising commerce and journey.
· Issachar is represented by an ass beneath a burden, symbolising labour and patience.
· Dan is represented by the eagle, symbolising judgement and spiritual elevation.
· Gad is represented by a tent or troop, symbolising readiness and defence.
· Asher is represented by a tree or overflowing cup, symbolising prosperity.
· Naphtali is represented by a hind or deer, symbolising freedom and swiftness.
· Joseph or Ephraim is represented by the ox, symbolising endurance and fruitfulness.
· Benjamin is represented by the wolf, symbolising courage and protection.
These banners symbolically surround the Chapter in the same way the tribes surrounded the Tabernacle during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness.
Within the Holy Royal Arch, the Twelve Tribes symbolise:
· Unity
· Restoration
· Divine order
· Spiritual completeness
· Humanity gathered around sacred truth
The arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle represented harmony and structure centred upon the presence of God. Within Royal Arch Masonry, this serves as a reminder that truth and spiritual understanding should remain at the centre of life.
The Four Principal Banners
One of the most recognisable features within many Royal Arch Chapters is the display of the four principal banners above or near the chair of the First Principal.
These represent the four leading tribal standards of the Camp of Israel described in Numbers Chapter 2.
· Judah, represented by the Lion in the East, symbolises kingship, leadership, and strength.
· Reuben, represented by the Man in the South, symbolises humanity, dignity, and vision.
· Ephraim, represented by the Ox in the West, symbolises labour, endurance, and service.
· Dan, represented by the Eagle in the North, symbolises judgement, spiritual awareness, and vigilance.
Together, these four banners represented the ordered encampment of the nation around the sacred centre of the Tabernacle. E. Comp. Ken Eyre informed us of an easy way to remember the order they should appear from left to right, the number of letters in the images of the banners, 2, 3, 4, 5. I will let you work out which banner is which.
A Symbolic Journey of Restoration
The Holy Royal Arch is ultimately a journey of rediscovery. The symbolism of the Twelve Tribes and the Four Principal Banners reinforce the key themes found throughout Royal Arch Masonry:
· Rebuilding after loss
· Restoring sacred truths
· Bringing order from chaos
· Uniting humanity around divine principles
Every banner and emblem within the Chapter carries meaning. Together they remind Companions that wisdom, balance, and spiritual understanding are achieved through harmony, discipline, and the continual search for light.
This was a most informative presentation.
The next item of business was the presentation of Chapter Certificates to Companion Nandakumar Pisharam and Companion Ken Wright. Unfortunately, Companion Ken Wright was unable to attend on this occasion, so his presentation will no doubt take place at a future meeting.
The MEZ, M.E. Comp. Rob Atkinson, then had the pleasure of presenting Companion Nandakumar Pisharam with his Chapter Certificate. This was a fitting and important moment in the evening, marking another step in Companion Nandakumar’s Royal Arch journey.
Various reports were then received, and the remaining business of the Chapter was duly transacted. It was also pleasing to hear the notification that Brother John Hemingway will be joining the Chapter at our July meeting, something which was warmly received by the Companions present.
With the formal business concluded, the Chapter was closed in due and ancient form, after which everyone retired to the Festive Board.
Once again, Luke and his team excelled themselves and delivered a highly enjoyable meal, which was appreciated by all. The evening was made even better by the bonus of a nice early finish, rounding off a pleasant, well-run, and very enjoyable Chapter meeting.
Saturday 25th April 2026 – Wbro Anthony James ProvGStdB
The Infamous Five Go Visiting
For those familiar with the tales of The Famous Five series by Enid Blyton, this is a story in a similar spirit, though with rather more aprons and rather fewer lashings of ginger beer.
On a bright and cheerful Saturday afternoon, five brethren set off together on their journey to York for the Invictus installation. The party consisted of Anthony James, Ed Thompson, Allan McKay, Paul Draper, and Nada Kumar. Spirits were high as they began their small adventure, though these were momentarily dampened by the radio announcing that Hull City A.F.C. had once again been defeated by lower league opposition. It was not the most encouraging start, yet the promise of the evening ahead, and the welcome they knew awaited them, soon lifted the mood.
Upon arrival, they were greeted with warmth and genuine friendship, the sort that makes one feel immediately at ease, as though one had returned rather than arrived. Being a military lodge, there was a distinct character from the outset. A sense of camaraderie filled the room, accompanied by a steady stream of inter-forces banter, always good-humoured, never unkind. It lent the evening a lively and relaxed air, while never diminishing the dignity of the occasion.
The five took their seats as the Worshipful Master opened the lodge promptly at 16:30. There was a precision to the proceedings that reflected the lodge’s military connections, each movement measured, each word delivered with care. Early in the ceremony, a particularly striking moment occurred when the Inner Guard requested permission to “Stand the lodge to.” Permission was granted, and the Invictus badge was displayed. It was a distinctive and symbolic gesture, one that quietly set this lodge apart and gave pause for reflection.
Greetings were then offered by both Grand Lodge and Provincial Officers, followed by the formal reception of the representative of the Assistant Provincial Grand Master in Charge, Ian Siddel, in the traditional manner. The Worshipful Master then continued with the installation ceremony, requesting that all Entered Apprentices retire, allowing the lodge to be opened in the Second Degree.
The Master Elect, Brother Darren Hartshorn, took one of his obligations with composure. The lodge was then raised to the Third Degree, with those below the rank of a Master Mason retiring for a short time. Before the Board of Installed Masters convened, the Master Masons were also asked to retire, leaving only those entitled to remain.
Brother Darren Hartshorn was then installed into the Chair of King Solomon in due and ancient form, carried out with a precision that reflected the discipline of the lodge. Upon completion, he was warmly congratulated by the Installed Masters present. The Board was then closed, and the Master Masons were readmitted.
What followed was a moment both unusual and memorable. The Third Degree was closed by the Wardens through the enactment of the substituted secrets, referencing the loss of the genuine secrets following the untimely death of Hiram Abif. The Senior Warden then explained these substituted secrets to the Worshipful Master. Though this had been witnessed on a previous visit, it remained a rare and thoughtful piece of ritual, not often seen elsewhere, and one that invited quiet contemplation.
The lodge was then lowered to the Second Degree, the Fellowcrafts readmitted, and finally lowered again to the First Degree, allowing the Entered Apprentices to return. The Officers for the year were duly appointed, and the business of the evening brought to its conclusion.
Once more, the Inner Guard sought permission to “Stand the lodge down.” Permission was granted, and the Invictus badge was respectfully withdrawn, bringing a sense of completion to the earlier symbolism. The lodge was then closed in due form, and the brethren retired to the festive board.
As is often the case, the formalities began with the National Anthem and the traditional toasts. Yet what followed carried the same character that had marked the evening from the start. The earlier military banter returned, conversations flowed with ease, and the atmosphere softened into one of warmth and good fellowship.
It was, in every sense, a most enjoyable visit and a splendid evening of fellowship. Like any good adventure, it was shared in fine company. In total, 63 brethren were in attendance, with 59 dining, and the Infamous Five proudly made up 25% of the visiting brethren present. The night offered moments of interest, reflection, humour, and friendship, ending with that quiet satisfaction which only comes from time well spent. For any brother considering a visit, Invictus Lodge should be placed very high on the list.
By Anthony James - ProvGStdB.
From the moment the Lodge opened at 6:30pm, there was a feeling in the room that we were in for a memorable evening. The Officers were in fine form from the start, the responses were clear, and the work moved along with confidence and care. It was one of those nights when the Lodge seemed to settle beautifully, and everyone played their part.
The candidate for the evening was Brother John Hemingway, who was to be raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason. John had obviously worked hard in preparation. He takes real pride in his ritual, and that came across in the way he answered the questions, with confidence, thought, and sincerity. He approached the ceremony in exactly the right spirit.
After the Lodge had been opened in due form, the Wardens and Deacons responded well, a portion of the Ancient Charges was read, and the minutes of the previous regular meeting were confirmed. Those below the rank of Fellow Craft were then asked to retire for a short while, before the Lodge was raised to the Second Degree.
Brother Hemingway was invited to express his wish to advance, which he did clearly and sincerely. His answers showed the effort he had put in and the respect he had for the step he was about to take. Following the next part of the ceremony, he retired while the Lodge was raised to the Third Degree.
Once properly prepared, Brother Hemingway was admitted back into the Lodge room in the traditional manner. From that point, Brother Ed Thompson, the Senior Warden, guided him around the Lodge with great dignity. It was calm, steady, and well handled throughout.
Worshipful Brother Paul Hillary then delivered the Retrospect with his usual authority and composure. He held the room beautifully and gave the piece the weight it deserves. The investiture by Brother Adam Tunnicliffe was carried out with care, while Worshipful Brother Mark Cusack delivered the Working Tools to the high standard we all know he is capable of.
The Ancient Charge was then given by the Chaplain, Brother Bill Turner-Bone, with warmth and reverence. Brother Hemingway was also introduced to the Royal Arch, with a clear explanation of its place within Freemasonry, followed by a well-delivered exchange between the Wardens.
After the Lodge was returned to the First Degree and everyone was re-admitted, the usual reports were received, along with kind greetings from our visitors.
The evening continued at the Festive Board, where there was good company, sincere toasts, warm conversation, and the traditional parting song. All in all, it was a lovely evening, full of meaning, pride, friendship, and brotherhood. It is one that Brother Hemingway, and all those present, will surely remember with great fondness.
2nd April 2026
On the evening of 2nd April 2026, a delegation from our Chapter visited Humber 57 Royal Arch Chapter with the objective of claiming the Travelling Sceptre. The party comprised Excellent Companions, Hiten Thacker (APGP), Anthony James, Ian Parkinson, Rob Atkinson, and James Steele, together with Companion Ed Thompson.
The Travelling Sceptre represents an important initiative within the province, fostering fraternal engagement and collaborative visiting between Chapters. this was the brainchild of Excellent Companion Richard Smedley. The process for claiming the Sceptre is governed by established protocols. Chapters must formally notify the holding Chapter of their intention to claim the Sceptre prior to visitation. A visiting Chapter must present a minimum of four Companions on the evening in question, with larger delegations generally strengthening their position for a successful claim. Should the visiting Companions' results prove tied, the Most Excellent Zerubbabel of the holding Chapter determines the outcome.
Our delegation of six arrived at the bar area to assess our prospects, whilst being warmly received by members of Humber 57 Chapter. The occasion held particular significance, as it constituted an Installation ceremony for the three Principals Elect: Excellent Companion R. Smedley (designate for the Chair of Zerubbabel), Excellent Companion A. Todd (designate for Haggai), and Excellent Companion M. Sharpless (designate for Joshua).
Following a private opening behind closed doors conducted by members of Humber 57, all visitors were then admitted into the Chapter. It was then formally opened in due form. The Representative of the 2nd Provincial Grand Principal Officer was Eddie Wildman PAGDC, who was admitted with respect and due recognition.
The ceremony proceeded according to traditional practice. The Most Excellent Zerubbabel requested those below the rank of the 3rd Principal to retire whilst the relevant ceremonial portion was delivered. This procedure was repeated for those below the rank of 2nd Principal and subsequently for all those below the rank of Most Excellent Zerubbabel, establishing a Conclave of 1st Principals only. The newly elected Most Excellent Zerubbabel was then installed, followed by the readmission and installation of the 2nd Principal and subsequently the 3rd Principal. All Companions were finally readmitted and informed of the installations before resuming their seats.
Following the completion of routine business, the Chapter was closed in due and ancient form. The delegation subsequently proceeded to the festive board, where we learned that Anchor Chapter No. 1337 had secured the Travelling Sceptre by a single member. We extend our genuine congratulations to Anchor Chapter on returning to Northallerton with the Travelling Sceptre.
The evening was characterised by genuine fellowship, camaraderie, and the bonds of fraternity that unite our Order. We look forward to future visits and the opportunity to claim the Travelling Sceptre at a forthcoming date.