• Question and Answer Bell

St. Michael’s Chapter C211 and First Artificer Chapter 3774 are both using a Himalayan Singing Bowl to enhance the questions and answers section at the Festive Board.

The lights are turned down very low and just before the first set of questions are asked the bell is struck 6 times – twice then a pause – twice again and a pause – twice again.Then the first set of questions are asked, and we drink to the memory in the usual fashion.Just before the 2nd set of questions the process is repeated, and again for the 3rd set.

It has proved to be remarkably popular amongst the Companions attending and adds a certain “je ne sais quoi” to this short but meaningful part of the Festive Board.Difficult to believe I know but the association actually has a limited number of small, genuine, Himalayan bowls nestling next to the ritual books.

• Everyone Applauds

Whilst the ritual was being complied and was a simple script at the time, the applause on Page 80 is acknowledged as being one of the high points mentioned by both the exaltee and companions attending a meeting.

First Artificer companions stand whilst applauding to give that simple but significant moment more emphasis.