The Inspector General for South Essex, V.Ill. Bro. John Reginald Hubbard was appointed by the Supreme Council in 2021 during the Covid crisis when meetings were severely disrupted. That appointment was for a period of 5 years. Although he took charge of the District at that time his Installation as IG was deferred until 24th January 2022.
V.Ill Bro. John guided the district through the crisis and encouraged members to return to their meetings as soon as they resumed. His next great challenge was the change which opened the Order to non Christians, with subsequent minor revisions to our ritual. Needless to say, this caused great debate among our members and V.Ill Bro. John eloquently explained the reasons and subsequent benefits.
He was and still is a regular attendee at Rose Croix meetings in the District and has a very strong relationship with our neighbouring Districts. It is therefore no surprise that the Supreme Council made the decision to extend his appointment for a further five years.
At the meeting of Hutton Chapter on 20th July 2026 the Grand Chamberlain, M.Ill.Bro. James Thom KC accompanied by Dep. Grand Director of Ceremonies Athelstan Aamodt attended for the re-presentation if the patent. V.Ill Bro. John was delighted with the presence of five visiting Inspectors General, four Heads of Orders and of course his predecessor and now Provincial Grand Master V.Ill. Bro. Paul Tarrant. Chapters of the District were also fully represented together with many visitors totalling 80+ attendees.
Following the re-presentation of the patent the Chapter held a double Perfection ceremony for Bros. Lee and Paul McGuinness. The ceremony was performed to a very high standard and well received by all present. Owing to limited space the Black Room was conducted in two sessions and for those not taking part V.Ill Bro. John gave two very informative talks. The first on the history of the Order and the second on the life of Dr Robert Thomas Crucefix.
The meal at the festive board was excellent and to the usual high standard at Hutton, and not surprising as the Most Wise Sovereign, E&P. Bro. Mervyn Revell is also the owner of the venue.
Following the customary toasts and speeches V.Ill Bro. John said how proud and delighted he was to have been re-appointed to what he considers to be the best job of his Masonic career. He is looking forward to building on his relationships with his Chapters and members in the next five years and promoting the continued growth of the Order.
The Grand Chamberlain and distinguished guests were presented with a selection of local delicacies by way of thanks for their friendship and support.
Front Row L – R: M.Ill.Bro. J. Thom KC, V.Ill. Bros. J. Hubbard, P. Tarrant, N, Franklin
Back Row L- R: V.Ill. Bros. D. Cresswell, R. Waltham, P. Harborne , R. Hannam