Regulation 55 outlines the protocol for filling the First Principal's Chair in the absence of the First Principal within a Royal Arch Chapter. If the First Principal is absent, the Immediate Past First Principal, or if unavailable, the Senior Past First Principal, or the Senior Past First Principal who is a subscribing member, assumes the role. In cases where the Second or Third Principal is not present, the First Principal or the acting Past First Principal invites a qualified Companion to fill the respective Chair. Additionally, during any convocation with a vacancy in an office other than Treasurer, the Principals are responsible for nominating a Companion to temporarily occupy that office. This regulation ensures continuity of leadership and proper functioning of the Chapter during absences, maintaining order and adherence to established Masonic practices.
December 8th, 2025
February 10th, 2026
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Regulation 55: Absence of First Principal. If the First Principal be not present, the Immediate Past First Principal, or if he be not present, the Senior Past First Principal of the Chapter, or if no Past First Principal of the Chapter be present, the Senior Past First Principal who is a subscribing member of the Chapter shall occupy the First Principal's Chair.
Absence of Second and Third Principals If the Second or Third Principal be not present, the First Principal, or the Past First Principal occupying the Chair for him, shall invite a qualified Companion to occupy such Principal's Chair.
Vacancies in regular offices At each convocation held during a vacancy in any other office except that of Treasurer or at which any other officer except as aforesaid is not present the Principals shall nominate a Companion to act in that office.