A New Twist on The Bonds of the Order as New Bodyguard Stands-up
History was made in Herford under the banner of the Great Priory of Germany with the standing up of a new Grand Master’s Bodyguard comprised totally of English Knights Templars.
Following many months of delicate discussion between the Provincial Prior of Northumberland, RE Kt Kevin Stannard and the Grand Master of Germany, ME Kt Roddy Mackenzie GCT, agreement was reached that members of the Provincial Bodyguard would also act as the Grand Master’s Bodyguard in Germany.
Under the watchful eye of the Commander, E Kt Scott Hunter (due to be Installed in Chibburn No.232 Preceptory in October), preparations and rehearsal for bespoke ceremony was conducted quietly in Northumberland.
With shoes bulled, Mantles pressed and swords polished to a bright sheen, the Knights set off by road, sea and air. Arriving bright and early to do one more rehearsal, all was set for history making. The part of the record was the admission as joining members the whole of the attending Bodyguard into the Great Priory of Germany. In total, seven Knights were formally balloted for with all joining in one movement with a further three looking to join at the next opportunity.
With time just so, the Commander of the PPBG, Kt Scott Hunter standing in the East in solitude, had his English mantle reverentially removed and carried by E Kt Dennis Beecroft (Deputy Provincial Marshall of Northumberland).
The bright white mantle, bordered with a distinctive red collar and dignified with a Scottish style Templar cross was put in place and tied personally by the Grand Master. In hushed tones, the Grand Master personally appointed “Scotty” his Commander of the Guard and promoted him an Eminent Knight. The Deputy Commander, E Kt Kevin Mouzon-Wilson was similarly invested his Mantle and appointment at the hand of ME Kt Roddy.
With well-rehearsed movements and minimal commands, the Bodyguard drew swords and moved with precision to form two ranks in front of the Grand Master. With a short command, the Bodyguard took a knee and placed their swords on the ground and as one stood up. In open order the Grand Master then proceeded, assisted by RE Kt Ian Harper KCT GMA, the Grand Sub Prior of Malta, and E Kt Dennis Beecroft replaced English mantles with German. Whilst tying the chords, and in a clear and commanding voice, the Grand Master, said, “By this chord, and the token of your Knightly vow, and admission into the Great Priory of Germany, I appoint you as my Bodyguard. Bring grace and dignity to the role. Be valiant, bold and loyal as my Bodyguard”. The smiles on everyone’s faces and in particular the Grand Master radiated the sheer joy, delight and happiness of the moment.
However, there was more to come, again making for a historic moment. On command, the Bodyguard, as one, knelt, recovered their swords to stand up as the new and resplendent Grand Master’s Bodyguard.
In slow time, the Bodyguard passed in review gracefully touching the hilt of the Commander’s sword as they passed the Grand Master, signifying their allegiance.
With the ceremony of investing the Guard complete, the Grand Master, addressed his new sentinels, stating, “It has been my dream to have a professional and fully manned Bodyguard. Today that has come true and I thank you all, especially for making such an incredible effort to come to Herford. I hope by your magnificent example, you will inspire other Knights In Germany to follow your example”.
