Yes, Slaithwaite Masonic Hall witnessed a first in my Masonic career with three Candidates being advanced at the same meeting, an event truly memorable and witnessed by a good turn out including the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Worshipful Brother Andrew Brown. The Dispensation for this special Meeting was read after which the Lodge was opened in due form by the Acting Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother John Todd.
Upon a report, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, Worshipful Brother Mark Holland was admitted and announced that the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Worshipful Brother Andrew Brown was without and demanded admission. This was agreed and he entered with Escort and took his seat. Despite being offered the Gavel and the prospect of conducting the ceremonies, W.Br. Andrew could not be prevailed upon and left proceedings firmly in the hands of W.Bro. John.
Much thought and meticulous planning had been put into proceedings which began upon an alarm; Worshipful Brother Stephen Spooner, Inner Guard announced that the candidates were outside and they entered , Brother David Kendal, followed by Brother Simon Cottrell and Brother Graham Robin, all escorted by the Senior Deacon, Worshipful Brother, Kelsall Nunn and the Junior Deacon, Brother Paul Hunt. They were then paraded around the Lodge, culminating in being obligated in due form by W.Bro. Todd. They being duly obligated. It was then necessary for them to have their work examined by the Overseers individually they then coming together to receive an explanation of .the Signs and Secrets. This was in the very capable hands of the Senior Warden, W.Bro. John Madigan.
Having been advanced they were then presented with the Badge and Jewel of a Mark Master Mason by the Senior Warden, W.Bro.John Madigan, another fine piece of work. This was followed by W.Bro. Spooner delivering an explanation of the Working Tools in his own inimitable style, the whole completed by Worshipful Brother Ralph Pearson with the conclusion emphasising the sublime precepts of the Order, Do Justice, love mercy, practise charity, maintain harmony and endeavour to live in unity and brotherly love..A wonderful Ceremony then concluded with the Lodge closed in due form. All retired to enjoy a sumptuous festive board, shepherds pie main course.
The Toast list was then followed by Worshipful Brother Trevor Kinvig, the Director of Ceremonies, that to the province by W.Bro. John and responded in good form by the Dep.P.G.M. W.Bro. Andy who thanked all who had attended a successful Provincial Grand Lodge Meeting, This was a sell out as there are limits on the Dining numbers. He warned to keep that in mind for next year and get your reservation in early. He also congratulated the three new Advancees and trusted that they would thoroughly enjoy their Mark Masonic life. This was echoed by W.Bro. John who proposed the Toast to the candidates. This was a proud day for the Lodge and he was confident that the new members would prove to be worthy additions,. In response, Bro. John expressed their pleasure upon being admitted, confirming that they looked forward to many enjoyable meetings in the future to which they would be pleased to contribute, we will not let them down in that regard!
Finally, a surprise, W.Bro. John Madigan stepped forward and presented a Cheque for £450 to the Cleeves and Whitehead Trust. This arose from one of the pig racing evenings that he holds occasionally, well done John. It was received by W.Bro. Andy, Dep.P.G.M.
Another wonderful Mark Masonic celebration, Smile and be happy.
V.W.Bro. Duncan Smith PGJO