New leader sets out his vision for the Royal Black

Just over one week into your new role, how does it feel to be sovereign grand master?

I suppose one could say my feet haven’t hit the ground yet! But I am delighted to be in the role and I’m looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

Did you have aspirations to rise to such high office when you first joined?

I never thought I would reach such dizzy heights. I was always prepared to work at whatever level I found myself at. Since joining the order in 1973 I have worked at all levels – preceptory, district, county and Imperial – never thinking such an honour would come to me.

Have your family always been involved in the loyal orders?

My family is steeped is in the loyal orders. My brothers, son, and grandson are all involved. My abiding memory is my mother getting seven children ready on the Twelfth morning to be out on the day. It was never an easy task, but she always managed it.

What are your first memories as a sir knight?

It would be going into a hall of men all sitting dubious and wondering who this person is entering the room. But later making friends with a lot of those individuals.

How important is the institution to you and what role does it play in your life?

If it weren’t for the institution I don’t think I would be in ministry. Sitting listening to men reading scripture and enacting out pieces of scripture was very challenging to me as a young person.

It sets out the whole scope of life, from birth to death, and from that we learn how to apply faith properly in our life.

Is your faith the most important element?

Yes, it is – and it is an important aspect of the institution, which I want to really highlight going forward. It will be one of my key elements.

Do you think the Royal Black remains relevant in the 21st century?

There are a lot of people who would say no, but I say yes. That is because it stands for the Reformed Faith – and the Reformed Faith must always be defended and propagated and encouraged in other people. That is what we do.

Some people see us as a solitary parading organisation – I don’t – I see us as an organisation that encourages people to consider their Christian faith and to apply that faith in everyday situations.

What would you say to those who say the Royal Black, and the loyal orders, are out-of-date and lag behind public opinion?

The challenge for church, and organisations like ourselves, is the secularisation of society today. But that doesn’t mean it is a good thing.

People can have different opinions, and people are entitled to hold an opinion – we have got to encourage others to be strong in holding their opinion and not to be swayed by secularism.

How will you seek to lead the organisation?

I want to set a vision for the organisation. I would love to change it from an organisation to a movement, to encourage people in their faith; instruct them; allowing them to build a strong foundation of their faith.

We need to set a course, steady the ship, and go forward on that course together. People need a route map and the institution has got to provide the ways and means to do it.

What will be your priorities as leader?