Oratory of the Lamp Chartered at Caer Wyvern

The Grand Council, meeting at Harrowmere on the eleventh of October, has granted a charter constituting the Oratory of the Lamp at Caer Wyvern, under the sponsorship of the Commandery of the Rose and Cup. The Oratory is the eighth local body of the Order and the first to be established in the western hills.

The Oratory has its origin in a group of three members of the Order resident in the district, who have met for study and practice in a private house since the autumn of 2024, travelling to Harrowmere for Chapter. Their petition for a charter was received at the Spring Chapter of Commanders in April and referred to the Rose and Cup, which agreed to act as sponsor. The Commandery's visitors reported to the Council in September that the group had kept the rule of practice faithfully, had received two enquirers as Postulants, and had undertaken a work of service in the district.

The Oratory will meet monthly and will hold an open meeting for enquirers at intervals, by arrangement with the sponsoring Commandery. Its first Postulants will be prepared at Caer Wyvern and received as Pages at the Rose and Cup. The lamp of the Oratory will be kindled from the flame of the mother Commandery at the Feast of Lights in January.

The Grand Master said: "Three people, a kitchen table and two years of keeping the practice. That is how this Order began and how it still grows. The Council is glad to welcome the Oratory of the Lamp and commends its members for their perseverance."

Enquirers resident in the western hills who wish to attend an open meeting of the Oratory should write to the Chancery at Post Box 1987, Harrowmere Station.

Sir Tobias Fenwick-Hale
Grand Chancellor