Positioning of Staves and Ensigns
The staves, when placed in their traditional position alongside the North and South sides of the vault, tend to get in the way or block the view of many companions. As an answer to this the MRARA suggest this alternative option, which has been adopted already by several Chapters.
The staves are removed and placed either side of the internal entrance so that the companions walk between them to enter the Chapter. For the avoidance of doubt they are inside the Chapter room.
The staves play their part on Page 54 of the First Edition 2025.
12 Companions are preselected to be banner bearers. These would include Scribe Ezra and Scribe Nehemiah. When the ME says, “Scribe Ezra and Scribe N take post” all the banner bearers stand, or the DC can say “Banner Bearers”, if this does not happen. The DC will nod and they all turn to the West, pause for a moment, then walk down to their allotted stave. Scribe N and Scribe E take Judah and Issachar respectively. Those on the left-hand side (Same side as Scribe E) hold the staves in the left hand and those on the right behind Scribe N hold them in their right hand, all facing East. When assembled the DC will nod and the banner bearers advance to the East, and all stand at their allotted stations facing East. The DC will nod again and all turn to face the vault. It is useful for each companion to trap the very base on the ensign to the stave using the thumb and forefinger, to stop them flapping around.
They are tilted as directed on Page 57.
On Page 58 another Companion will have to act as Scribe N to open the door for the candidate to leave. Once the candidate leaves the room, everyone remains in position and standing. The banner bearers look to the DC who nods once, they all turn to the West, pause momentarily, and return the staves to their original positions. Once done they turn to the East and the DC nods and all return to their seats and remain standing. The DC then says, “Be seated Companions” and all sit.
This simple part of the ceremony is easy to manage and does not require the DC to be intrusive. It also adds a small bit of theatre, as well as allowing all companions to view the ceremony thus far, and the rest of the proceedings with an uninterrupted view.
In some Chapter rooms the Ensigns are fixed to the walls and other places, thereby making this enactment impossible.
Of course, this can only be done if room allows.
