The sun always seems to shine on the yearly trip to Mark Grand Lodge Annual investiture and yet again it did. There were over 50 Mark Master Masons from our Province there to enjoy the splendour of the pageantry with Brethren from around the globe. Australia, Finland, Jamaica and Romania to mention but a few. The temple at Great Queens Street was full to the rafters and the colour alone was spectacular with a total of fourteen processions! The Pro Grand Master Most Worshipful Brother John Herbert Prizeman ran a super meeting. Full details of the meeting and his address to the Brethren can be found on www.markmasonshall.org
The most important part of the day were the appointments to Grand Lodge. Many congratulations to all but of course to our own W.Bro. Michael Jessop to G.J.D., W.Bro. Jason J. Cunningham to G.Stwd., W.Bro. John Madigan and W.Bro. Clive Hawkins to P.A.G.D.C., W.Bro. F. Richard Stone to P.A.G.Swd.B., W.Bro. David F. Leach and W.Bro. Derek Thulborn to P.G.Std.B., a total of seven appointments for our Province. All richly deserved. There are three further promotions which will be made at the September meeting of Grand Lodge.
There was all but a full carriage of West Yorkshire Mark Masons from Leeds with the carriage filling nicely as it picked up in Wakefield and Doncaster. The camaraderie started from joining the train to leaving it again some twelve hours later.
As I said Freemasons Hall is fantastic and the ceremonial first class but, then it would be with both V.W.Bro. John E. Vause P.A.Prov.G.M. and W.Bro. Andrew J. Brown Dep.Prov.G.M. being part of the D.C. team. How does John ALWAYS manage to collect every West Yorkshire appointee and take them up to the Dias? John obviously knows but never tells!
What does make it a special day for all Mark Master Masons is the fun and friendship that is shared through out the day. All the bars, restaurants and cafes are full of Mark Masons chatting and catching up with friends old and new. Dining at Connaught Rooms is a favourite for many. West Yorkshire and North and East Yorkshire sharing each others company and toasting each other’s health.
All good things must come to an end with Brethren all making their way home to all points North, East, South and West.
Until next time Brethren.
Andrew Johnson
