On the 4th October, Robert joined 22 members from Prince of Wales Lodge No 1705 (Hampshire and Isle of Wight), on a trip to Jersey to visit Prince of Wales No 1003. The latest Instalment of 'POW's on Tour'
After an early morning flight from Southampton airport, we checked into the Premier Inn, just round the corner from the Temple, before embarking on a foot tour of St Hellier. On searching out the exact location of the Temple, whilst admiring it's architectural beauty, a passing Brother asked if we would like a guided tour. After he had spent many minutes trying to find the right combination for the key entry, punctuated with statements like " you wouldn't think I come in here most days"!!, we were admitted into a very fine facility we could only admire, including a dining room, with the Logo's of the various Orders on the wall, and cabinets showing the regalia of each Order, a beautiful Temple with computer controlled lighting which only added ambience to the 3rd Degree that we were to witness later, and a museum full of sobering pictures and evidence of the German occupation during the war.
A late lunch was taken at the 'Cock and Bottle' in the late Autumn sunshine, before returning to our hotel for a quick siesta before getting ready and taking the brief walk back to the Temple for the Installation meeting of 'de Carteret Lodge No 3459'. As always it was the 'differences' that make the meeting interesting, and we were able to witness a full Provincial Team Visit with all the Ceremony that went with it. As always, this was followed by an excellent Festive Board, and it was my extreme pleasure to respond on behalf of The Visitors.
The next day started with a typical Premier Inn 3 course breakfast, and time to catch up with old friends, before I ventured out to explore other corners of St Hellier, including admiring the spectacular views from Mt Bingham over the City and a thought provoking visit to Liberation Square and the Church House. Unfortunately the afternoon turned wet, but never the less, a very enjoyable tea and cakes was taken in the hotel lobby with much craic and 'p' taking, until it was time to get ready for the meeting.
We were the guests of Prince of Wales No 1003 that evening, who performed an excellent 3rd Degree Ceremony, raising a Brother from POW No1705. Again the differences were interesting and provided food for thought. While the attendance was smaller, another enjoyable Festive Board was held with many new friendships being made, and I'm hopeful that before too long we may see a Brother from Jersey visiting us.
Next morning, I caught an early flight back (that early I had to forgo my cooked breakfast!), and a very memorable and enjoyable Masonic break came to an end. Brethern, POW's on Tour is something to be held and not to be missed! and the whisper is that it will be hitting Stow on the Wold in the new year!!
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