Provincial Grand Almoner’s Report March 2024

The 3rd Sunday of Lent

Dear Sir Knights,

Meteorologically it is the third day of Spring and I woke to a frosty meadow with the puddles and the water for the birds iced over. And this after what was one of the hottest and wettest Februarys on record; but now, as I write this missive, the sun is shining and the sky is blue.

Again this month no report of distress nor illness apart from, the knight awaiting shoulder surgery has had the operation postponed for the 4" time. Chapel Almoners, please do pass on to me any reports you may have.

I have found when getting out and about at various meetings that the attendance is growing and becoming more like pre-pestilence days, although some Companion Orders are still struggling for candidates. Come on Sir Knights twist some arms in your Encampment and Preceptory.

There appears to be a change in the bird population, Pigeons and Collar Doves along with Magpies and Crows have increased, these are early feeders and consequently the Starlings seem to have found a fresh source of food as the pickings are poor for the few late-comers; the Tits and Finches are starting to nest in the wilds of my late neighbour’s garden and the Squirrels and Badgers continue with their digging. Hopefully, it will become drier and I can get the meadow mown and the beds planted. I am going to try to start a small Herb Garden again with better protection this time from Brock the Badger!

With sincere Knightly Greetings “Until We Meet Again”

Yours in Humilitas et Caritas

Sir Sydney of Belchamp Walter,

Provincial Grand Almoner 3rd March 2024