Brondesbury Chapter

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When is a Centenary not a centenary? Quite simply, when there has been a break in the meetings held by the Chapter.

Mill Hill Chapter No 3574 was consecrated on Wednesday 10th November 1920 so, this normally means that the chapter would have been able to celebrate its centenary in 2020. However, whilst the chapter met regularly, in 1989 due to falling numbers, the Companions voted to return the charter. Then in 1995, following a decision by some of the original and new Lodge members, they contacted Supreme Grand Chapter to enquire if the charter could be reinstated.

To their surprise, they were informed that the erasure of the Chapter had been removed from the SGC Paper of Business, which meant the Chapter had not been erased as previously anticipated. On 1st November 1995, the Chapter met under dispensation at FMH.

On 3rd January 1996, an installation meeting took place, and the Chapter has continued to meet to this day – with the exception of COVID of course – and now has a healthy membership of 37 companions.

On Wednesday 24th June 2026, the companions held a convocation to celebrate 100 years of meetings; and E Comp Ian Clark PGSN, Deputy Met Grand Superintendent was the guest of honour. E Comp Robert Chapronier, Met Second Grand Principal and E Comp John Burnapp, Met Third Grand Principal were also in attendance, along with several current and former Met Grand Officers plus several members and their guests, including E Comp Russell Race, P2ndGPrin, PMetGSupt.

During the meeting, the Companions were able to enjoy an explanation of the Historical and Symbolical Lectures from E Comps Jim Bush and Pete Digby respectively. E Comp John Burnapp delivered an Oration and E Comp Ian Clark addressed the companions.

Despite the extreme heat on this day, 51 Companions attended the meeting, then retired to the Grand Connaught Rooms, where they were able to enjoy a hearty 5 course dinner.

This article is part of Arena Magazine Issue 61 – Summer 2026.
Arena Magazine is the official online magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

Read more articles in Arena Issue 61 here.

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