On 23rd February 2024 the Forest Rose Sanctuary and Commandery No. 265 was honoured by the presence of the Most Illustrious Grand Sovereign, Graham Leslie Flight, who was visiting the Conclave to present V.Ill.Kt. Malcolm Earnest Slater, P.G.J.Gen., with his Certificate and Breast Jewel to mark his 50 years of membership within the Order. The Grand Sovereign was accompanied by V.Ill.Kt. Dries Van De Burgh, P.G.H.Alm, Past Deputy Grand Marshal and several members of the Grand Sepulchre Guard.
The Grand Sovereign gave a wonderful presentation which expounded on Malcolm’s long and distinguished masonic career within all the orders that he is a member of, and they are many, as well as his exceptional contribution to this Order.
After presenting the Certificate and Jewel the Grand Sovereign then surprised all those who were in attendance by giving V. Ill. Kt. Malcolm a field promotion to P.G.S.Gen.
V. Ill. Kt. Malcolm responded by thanking the Grand Sovereign saying that he was highly honoured to receive the certificate and the promotion as he knows how rare a promotion to this rank is
Following the 50 year certificate presentation the members of Forest Rose Sanctuary and Commandery along with several members of the Divisional team performed an Appendant Orders ceremony for W.Kt Simon Stocker.
The Grand Sovereign then presented W.Kt. Simon Stocker with both his Red Cross of Constantine certificate and his Appendant Orders Certificate with wonderful explanations of both.
Following the meeting, V.Ill. Kt. Malcolm Slater was introduced to the members of the Grand Sepulchre Guard, having been a member himself many years ago.
A wonderful festive board was then had by all after which the Grand Sovereign retired in order to travel the long distance back to his home.
We all thank the Grand Sovereign for taking the time to visit and we hope he can visit again soon.