Submitted by Val Hiscock on
Members of the Grand Bailiwick of Scotland gathered in the small West Lothian town of Broxburn on the evening of Wednesday 16 April for their Easter Service. Despite torrential rain and challenging weather conditions, members from across Scotland as well as honoured guests from the Grand Priory of England and Wales met at the 135-year-old United Free Church of Saint Nicholas for an evening of celebration, kinship, and worship.
The congregation, which was made up of Members of the Order, as well as parishioners from the Church’s own congregation, were welcomed by the Bailiwick’s Chaplain General, Reverend Colin MacAulay.
The opening prayer was led by the Chaplain General, then followed an extended Bible reading by the Bailiwick’s Secretary General the Chevalier Colin Russell, taken from the Book of John 19, verses 1 – 22. The second Hymn was followed by the Offering and Prayer of Dedication, before the Bailiwick’s Chancellor the Chevalier Stuart McBride read again from John 19, verses 23 – 30. An inspiring Easter Reflection was given by Reverend Margery Collin MMLJ. The Prayer of Intercession was read by Confrere Craig Stirling-Brown from the Commandery of Cumbria before the Benediction by the Chaplain General.
At the close of the service the Bailie, HE Chevalier Peter Gardner, thanked members of the Bailiwick and Order who had travelled many miles to take part in the service including Dr the Chevalier David Knox, Commander of Cumbria, who travelled up to join the members at the service. The Bailiwick expresses its sincere thanks to the Kirk session for their hospitality, the use of the church for the service, the organist and the lovely supper of soup and cakes in the hall after the Service.
Despite the poor Scottish weather, this was a most enjoyable evening of celebration for all who were in attendance.
Confrère Ross M. McEwen CLJ
(Assistant Secretary General)