Golden Chersonese Preceptory and Priory No. 290 E.C.Merry Christmas Celebration 2025

By: Em Kt Louis Ruehlmann

On 14th December, Golden Chersonese Preceptory and Priory held its annual Celebration of Christmas at the Read Masonic Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This much-anticipated event, the largest charity function organised by the Preceptory and Priory, has now become a cherished tradition over the past six years.

Our celebration was honoured by the presence of R E Kt Dr Brian B. Shegar, the Provincial Prior of South East Asia, who flew in from Singapore to support, encourage, and strengthen the charitable outreach of GCPP No. 290 E.C.

The event welcomed 55 children from three local orphanages, 18 members of the Malaysian Association for the Blind, and 24 senior citizens. Together with Brethren, their families, and friends, the day brought together over 200 attendees—our largest number ever—creating a warm, inclusive, and joyful atmosphere in the true spirit of Christmas.

Proceedings commenced with a Carol Service, with the Knights Templar in full-dress regalia. The harmonious voices of the Lake Club Carollers beautifully enhanced the service and added to the solemn yet festive atmosphere of the occasion.

This was followed by a buffet lunch, after which our guests were treated to an enormously popular, rib-laughing pantomime entitled “Templar Alley and the Two Thieves.”

The pantomime was written and directed by Em Kt David Oakley, who also delighted the audience in his role as Nick the Thief. The production featured an all-star cast, including:

• Bro Kt Ajeet Ahluwalia as the ever-talented Mdm. Twanky

• Bro Kt Roger Deslorieux as Wishy Washy, proudly proclaiming himself to be the best security guard in the world

• Mrs Shyamala Kandappar as Alice, who lived next door for 21 years

• Em Kt Louis Ruehlmann as Rick, Thief No. 2

• Special thanks are extended to Bro Kt Saulius Radziunas, who skilfully accompanied the performance on the piano.

The highlight for the children was the appearance of Santa Claus, wonderfully portrayed by Em Bro Russell Stuart, Bro Kt John McGhee, and Bro Lars Thomsen, who personally greeted each child and presented Christmas gifts, creating moments of pure joy and excitement.

In keeping with the charitable ideals of the Order, donations totalling RM8,000 were made to the three participating homes and to the Malaysian Association for the Blind. The Preceptory and Priory express their deep gratitude to their generous sponsors, whose support ensured the success of the event and enabled the entire celebration to be provided at no cost to our guests.

This annual Christmas celebration remains a proud hallmark of Golden Chersonese Preceptory and Priory—one that reflects our enduring commitment to charity, compassion, fellowship, and service. It stands as a living expression of the spirit of Christmas and the values the Order seeks to uphold throughout the year.e that reflects our enduring commitment to charity, compassion, fellowship, and service. It stands as a living expression of the spirit of Christmas and the values the Order seeks to uphold throughout the year.