Following an invitation, from the Kolossi Preceptory No 684, in Cyprus, a delegation from Kent travelled to the island, on the above dates. The delegation consisted of the Provincial Prior, Sub-Prior, Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Marshal and Bodyguard Commander, E.Kt. Dennis Dean. The whole trip was superbly organised by E.Kt. Dennis.

Please see the attached photographs taken by our Provincial Marshal, E.Kt. Kelvin Gane.

The main purpose of the trip was to attend a meeting of the Kolossi Preceptory, in Limassol, on the Saturday evening, with the Installation of a new Knight as the main agenda item.

The whole evening proved a resounding success, with R.E. Knight David Jordan presenting Great Priory Certificates to 5 new members. The supervising Preceptory Marshal was our very own E.Kt. Ken Fickling, PPReg, also a member of the Preceptory of the Holy Trinity No 391, which meets at Gravesend. The evening culminated in a sumptuous buffet refectory at the nearby Curium Hotel.

During the meal R.E.Kt. David presented the Eminent Preceptor, Renos Makrosellis, with a suitably engraved “Scottish Quaich”, or loving cup. This was filled with a locally produced wine, aptly called “St. John Commandaria”. This wine was, according to legend, produced by our ancient Knight Templars on the island of Cyprus.

The procedure, again according to legend, is that the Preceptor takes a sip from the cup and passes it to his right. This is continued around the room until it arrives back with the Preceptor. Who then, proves it is empty, by turning it upside down over his head. This is how customs are started.
The remainder of our sojourn, on Cyprus, was spent visiting some of the historical Roman and Knight Templar sites. In particular, a visit to a Roman settlement and Amphitheatre. Together with a visit to Kolossi Castle, an ancient Templar site. 

We also attended a splendid lunch, on Sunday, with the District Grand Master of Cyprus, Right Worshipful Brother Michael Hadjiconstantas, and the District Grand Secretary, Worshipful Brother, Ken Fickling. Where a variety of subjects were discussed.
It is anticipated that there may be a reciprocal visit possibly later this year at the Provincial Priory meeting at Bromley in July.
E.Kt. Terry Tanner
Provincial Sub-Prior