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Grand Sepulchre Guard No 379

M.P.S:  

Viceroy:  

Treasurer:

Recorder:

Marshal:

Meeting dates: Date Consecrated:

Conclave History

The concept for a Red Cross of Constantine Conclave specifically for members of the Sepulchre Guard originated during a lunch on January 17, 1984. Key figures in its creation included:

  • Rt. Ill.Kt. Allan Barry Perry P.G.S.Gen: The organising Recorder.
  • Ill.Kt. John Baron Von Hoff P.G.Swd.B: The Captain of Guards who proposed the “Ground Rules” and served as the first Most Puissant Sovereign (MPS).
  • M.Ill.Kt, The Revd. Canon Richard Tydeman GCC: The Grand Sovereign who supported the petition and personally, along with John Baron von Hoff, designed the Conclave’s standard and logo.

The Conclave was established to emphasise the military aspects of the Order, such as sword drill and escort duties, and to serve as “The Grand Sovereign’s Own”.

Key Milestones and Traditions:

  • Consecration: The Conclave was officially granted its warrant on October 15, 1984, and consecrated at Mark Masons Hall (MMH) on November 17, 1984.
  • Unique Regalia: Members of the Sepulchre Guard were entitled to wear the H.S. (Holy Sepulchre) collarette at all times, together with any other RCC regalia,  A defining feature is the use of full-length white cloaks featuring a black Jerusalem Cross, a tradition initiated by John Baron Von Hoff to distinguish the Guard.
  • Name Change: Originally the “Sepulchre Guard Conclave,” the name was formally changed to “Grand Sepulchre Guard Conclave“ in May 1999 to maintain its unique status, this was prompted by the decision made by GIC to allow Divisions to form their own Divisional Sepulchre Guards, which later resulted in the formation of their own “Sepulchre Guard Conclaves”.
  • Ritual and Service: The Conclave meets twice yearly on dates near the Festivals of the Cross. It is noted for regularly working the Appendant Orders and was arguably the first to adopt the modern closing ceremony in 2010.

By 2012, the Conclave was recognised as having “come of age” as the Grand Sovereign’s Own, particularly following its high-profile work with visiting Brazilian Masons.

Membership:

  • Membership of the GSG is by invitation only.
  • Membership of the Conclave is restricted to members of the GSG both present and past however, the Conclave always welcomes visitors from the Order, no matter what rank held.

Meetings of the Conclave:

The Conclave meets on 1st Sat in May (E) and 2nd Sat in September (Appendant Orders) at MMH.