National Investiture (South) - Spring 2018

The beautiful setting of The Cathedral Church of The Holy Trinity Chichester saw the National Investiture of the Grand Priory of England and Wales on Saturday 28th April 2018.

With members, visitors and guests in attendance, the Choir sang the Introit ‘Non nobis, Domine’ as the Grand Prior, The Most Honourable the Marquis of Lothian PC, GCLJ, QC, DL, The Rt. Revd Dr Martin Warner MA, PhD, Bishop of Chichester, Clergy, Members of Grand Priory and distinguished guests processed into Chichester Cathedral. The service was led by the Chaplain-General, The Revd Canon Victor Bullock SChLJ assisted by several Chaplains of the Order. An inspirational sermon was delivered by The Bishop of Chichester. The Investiture then took place with several postulants being admitted into the Order. Then followed Promotions and Awards and the appointment of Commanders and Commandery Chancellors.

Members then re-dedicated their lives to the service of God through the most noble Order. The ‘Salve, Regina’ by Gregor Aichinger was sung followed by the blessing, dismissal and National Anthem. The Assembly Room built in 1782 was the venue for an excellent banquet to conclude this highly successful and memorable day.

The Vigil before an investiture was held the evening before at The Church of St Richard of Chichester and was conducted by The Chaplain-General again assisted by Chaplains of the Order. Following a meditation on the Beatitudes, the Postulants took their vows. The Charge to Postulants was delivered by The Secretary-General HE The Chevalier Gareth Vaughan GCLJ. Following the Vigil, a delicious supper was enjoyed in the Bishop’s Palace with its spectacular Tudor Room and remarkable colourful painted ceiling.

A wonderful and spiritually enriching occasion, the Spring National Investiture in Chichester will be fondly remembered by The Grand Priory of England and Wales.