On 10th July 2026, the Pontefract Masonic Hall played host to a memorable and spirited meeting of the Pontefract Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No. 878. It was a delight to witness such a strong turnout for the Escorted Visit from the Provincial Grand Master, who was ably assisted by W.Bro. Clive Hawkins, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, and supported by a number of Acting Provincial Officers of the Year.
The atmosphere was further brightened by a wonderful delegation from Elmete Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No. 111, who were in attendance to formally pass on the Travelling Porphyry Stone – a tradition that continues to foster visiting and friendship between our Lodges.
The focal point of the evening was the Elevation of Bro. Peter Bustos of Copley Lodge of Mark Master Masons. The ceremony was performed with immense heart and passion. Bro. Andrew Weston (Senior Deacon) did a fantastic job conducting our new brother around the Lodge, showing the steps and delivering the signs and secrets in wonderful fashion. Bro. Ian Robertson handled the investiture of the badge and jewel with great creativity – notably adapting to the sweltering heat of the evening, as the Worshipful Commander had wisely allowed us all to dispense with our jackets! Bro. Robertson also expertly explained the steps, while the Working Tools were delivered with sincerity by W.Bro. John Whitworth.
It was fantastic to hear the announcement that two brethren will be proposed at the next meeting for elevation – a wonderful indicator of the future health and vitality of the Lodge.Th
e evening concluded with a fantastic festive board, which was a culinary treat featuring Pâté, followed by Pork Kebabs served with an Indian Salad and Jersey Royal Potatoes, and finished with a delicious Eton Mess. The toasts were equally memorable; the toast to the candidate was given by his proposer, Bro. Alan Law (Junior Warden), who also proposed the toast to the visitors. Bro. Rod Dyer, our second-term Provincial Grand Senior Warden, responded in his typical comedic style.
All in all, it was a fantastic evening. Huge congratulations to the Worshipful Commander and his team at Pontefract Lodge and a very warm welcome to Bro. Peter Bustos. We wish him all the best in his journey through the Royal Ark Mariner degree.
With thanks to
Bro. Christian Holmes