On Saturday, April 3, 2004, the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Massachusetts initiated the first of the York Rite One-day classes in Milford. A Special Convocation of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter was opened at 9:00 a.m. by the Deputy Grand High Priest, R.E. Jeffrey Gardiner.

37 candidates from 19 Chapters witnessed the presentation of the Mark Master Mason, Past Master, and Most Excellent Master degrees followed by an excellent lunch prepared by Maureen Estes. After lunch the Royal Arch degree was presented. All of the degree work was superbly performed by the Grand Royal Arch Chapter Exemplification Degree Team, under the leadership of the three Grand Lecturers, R.E. Bruce Stanford, R.E. Francis Mitrano, and R.E. Peter Ham.

The candidates and attendees were very impressed by the precision and perfection of the Team and expressed their appreciation with an extended round of applause. A special treat for those assembled was a commentary on and comparison of the degree work by Companion Tofique Fatehi, a special guest from India. Total attendance was 83 companions from 24 Chapters.

The Council One-Day class will be held on Saturday, April 17th, in Milford, followed by the Commandery One-Day class on Saturday, May 1st, at the same location.