Introduction to the Arimatheans
“Fidelis patria, familiaribus fidus”
(“Loyal to county, true to friend”, the motto of the Arimatheans.)
The Arimatheans began as a group of friends who shared a belief that the obvious ills in modern British society could be addressed by reference to our history. We shared an unabashed and patriotic pride in those things that are best and good in our history, heritage, traditions and values. We also shared a realisation that, like us, many people were out of sympathy with the social fashions and mores being continually promoted around them.
We therefore looked back to the late 18th and early 19th century, to find another period when rapid social upheaval was making many British people feel isolated and powerless. Back then many concerned public gentlemen chose to form associations, usually dining clubs, where like-minded individuals could be brought together in an environment where they can share and exchange views and enjoy the companionship of their fellows.
So the Convivial Society of Arimatheans was formulated as a 21st century re-creation of a Georgian Dining Club, and so we met (and do still meet) in congenial surroundings where we could dine, sup and debate together. This is generally upon the anniversary of great events in British history, which we may commemorate and celebrate, remembering all those whose wisdom or personal sacrifice have ensured the freedom of the land in which we now live, lest these things be forgotten.
Individual members of the Arimatheans have differing areas of particular interest or concern. These may include loyalty to The Crown, preservation of traditional customs, Britain’s relationship with the European Union, the beleaguered established Church of England, historical research and edification, preservation of historic buildings, custodianship of antiquated artefacts or simply a pleasure in the historically arcane. As such, discussions at meetings of the Arimatheans have rejoiced in being witty, free ranging, informative and even contentious; but never (we hope) offensive to the sensibilities of others about the table.
The ‘essays’ section of this web site aims to extend our “table” so that as many as wish to can sit at it and join our discussions.
