June 9, 2026, marked a monumental milestone in English Freemasonry. At Freemasons’ Hall in London, Right Worshipful Brother Paul Raymond Clement, OStJ, was officially invested as the new Pro Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons. It was an incredibly proud day for Brethren from all over the constitution, witnessing a man of immense dedication, warmth, and talent assume one of the highest offices in the Order.

For me, however, the day came with a bit of a twist!

So Close, Yet So Far: My View from the Cloakroom

I was there, right in the heart of Great Queen Street, fully intending to witness this historic investiture first-hand. But as can happen at massive Masonic events, duty called. I ended up volunteering to work in the cloakroom for the day.

While hundreds of Brethren filed past me into the Grand Temple to hear the trumpets sound and see Paul invested, I was busy tagging coats, organizing cases, and making sure everyone else’s day ran like clockwork. I didn’t get to see the actual ceremony happen, but the sheer buzz and excitement vibrating through the walls of Freemasons’ Hall made it clear that something truly special was happening inside.

A Long Professional Friendship & A Templar Connection

Missing the ceremony was a shame, because Paul is someone I hold in the highest regard. I have known him professionally for years, long before his elevation to Pro Grand Master. He has always carried himself with an effortless mix of profound leadership and genuine humility.

Many of you will know that Paul also serves as the Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master of the Knights Templar. In that role, he did us an incredible honour. When we were writing our book, In the Steps of the Templars, Paul graciously agreed to write the foreword. His insightful words added immense value to our work, and it is a professional and personal connection I will always cherish. Seeing someone who has been so supportive of our own endeavours reach this pinnacle in Mark Masonry is magnificent.

A Banquet Across Many Rooms

Once the formal proceedings wrapped up, the festive board began. To say it was a giant event would be an understatement. The sheer volume of attendees meant the meal had to be spread across multiple rooms to accommodate everyone.

Even though he was the man of the hour, dealing with the whirlwind of his own investiture, Paul showed exactly why he is so universally respected. He made a point to tour the various rooms, moving from space to space specifically to say hello to everyone and express his gratitude. It was a class act from a class individual, ensuring that even in a crowded, multi-room venue, the personal touch wasn’t lost.

It was an unforgettable day to be a part of—even if my view was mostly coat racks! Huge congratulations to Most Worshipful Brother Paul Raymond Clement, OStJ. The Mark Degree is in fantastic hands.