Senior Fraters of SE Scotland Join Northumberland’s Knights at Annual Church Service

Provincial Prior entering the Abbey flanked by his Sword and Banner bearers.
With the weather improving and bathed in bright sunshine, and late Spring turning, Hexham Abbey (built AD 674) hosted Northumberland’s third Knights of the Temple annual service as befitting a deeply Christian Order. Uniquely, the Abbey’s Rector (The Reverend David Glover) accepted the Provincial Prior, R.E. Knight Kevin Peter Stannard’s argument allowing all Knights to carry their swords for this spiritually enriching Service.

Provincial Body Guard presenting with ancient
crypt of St Wilfred centre of isle.

Provincial Malta delegation process in led by E Kt Dennis Beecroft, Provincial Deputy Marshal under an immaculate Arch of Steel.
Forming up as is now part of our tradition, the Provincial Prior’s Guard took their place lining the entrance to the Abbey’s pews.

Attending Knights with wives and partners quietly took their seats waiting expectantly. With bright morning sunshine cascading through ancient stained glass, Scott Hunter, the Guard’s Commander called the Arch of Steel to order. With swords touching and blades glinting in the presence of Regimental standards past, the honour guard created a wonderful spectacle under which the Provincial Sword and Banner Bearer and Principals 
accompanied by their entourage processed in. 

Hidden in plain sight as the procession passed was the entrance to the Crypt of St Wilfred, part of the original Church now well over 1300 years old, also being the name of one of the 16 Preceptories of Northumberland.

VIP delegation from Scotland with senior members of the Province rejoicing harmoniously.
With a good choice of hymns sung with gusto, the Curate’s sermon reflected the uncertainty and hope for peace not only in Europe, but also in the Holy land along with observation on how as an Order, we actively work as a force for good in the community. Lessons were read by R.E. Kt. Kevin Stannard and V.E. Kt. Bill Bewick.
Following the Service, the Brother Knights accompanied by their Ladies retired to Hexham’s Masonic Hall to dine on a wonderfully laid out buffet …. Fit for a King.
It was of note that the Curate, dressed in robes spiritual accompanied the Provincial Prior, RE Kt Kevin Stannard. They being preceded by the Provincial Malta delegation led by the Deputy Provincial Marshall, E Kt Dennis Beecroft.
A further first was that Northumberland were honoured by the presence of the current and immediate Past District Fraters of the District of South East Scotland adorned in their white mantles and bright red facings. The warmth of the relationship between the two Provinces being very warm and long standing and very visible for all to see.
The Provincial Prior reads lesson whilst congregation listens intently.
Commenting on the day, Provincial Prior, R.E. Kt. Kevin Stannard said, “The surroundings for our annual Church Service are truly stunning and being able to wear our regalia makes the occasion that much more special. We are deeply indebted to the authorities in the Abbey for their continued support for our desire to worship in such an auspicious and ancient location and very much look forward to coming back in 2025”