Thursday 21st March and Brethren gathered at the Masonic Rooms , Rotherham Golf Club, Thrybergh to witness the Proclamation of Worshipful Brother Chris Hamer as Worshipful Master for the next twelve months; yes despite all their efforts he was still there; which we were all happy to see with the memories still vivid of his poor health in later years, now thankfully behind him. W.Bro. Chris Allen, Director of Ceremonies, welcomed all with the words’ six bells have now rung’, have you all signed the register and details of fire regulations were given,
That left the floor clear for W.Bro. Chris who opened the Lodge in good order and dealt with the Minutes of the last meeting on January 18th, which were duly confirmed. A Dispensation was then read which related to W.Bro. Terry Beatson who was to be installed as Treasurer and Master Overseer. A ballot followed for Brother Jason Banks who, probably, will be Advanced at their next meeting in October, put it in your diaries.. A Report was taken which brought forward W.Bro. Charles Lindsay Prov.A.G.D.C. who announced that the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. Andrew Brown , together with W.Bro. Paul Levey, Elected member of the Charity Committee and Escort, were without and demanded admission, this duly followed, all were welcomed and took their seats when Salutations were given.
The Secretary, W.Bro. John Beaven delivered his report for the year, a successful one for the Lodge with four Advancements, truly a Magic of the Mark period for Rother. The Director of Ceremonies, W.Bro. Chris Allen then Proclaimed W.Bro Chris to the delight of all present. This was followed by W.Bro. Stuart Smith presenting and explaining the Working Tools after which W.Bro. Chris thanked all the Officers for their support over a busy year, particularly their hard work and enthusiasm; Collars and Jewels were then returned. Officers for the coming year were Appointed and Invested following which the Addresses were then given as follows;
Wardens W. Bro. John Morgan.
Overseers W.Bro. Roy Bury.
Brethren Asst.Prov.G.M. W.Bro. Andrew Brown.
The Auditors, being W.Bro. Stuart Smith and W.Bro. Michael Speight were confirmed as custodians for the ensuing year. Housekeeping issues then dealt with, the Lodge was closed in good order as the Festive Board beckoned.
The Toast List was carefully followed by W.Bro. Chris with the Toast to the Province in the hands of the Senior Warden, Bro.David Taylor who expressed his admiration and respect for the work undertaken throughout the year by the Provincial Grand Lodge Officers and their Leadership. Responding W.Bro. Andrew acknowledged the erudite comments from Bro. David and, based upon what we had seen this evening, the Lodge is in good stead in respect of future Candidates. He then reminded all that we source our Membership from the Craft Lodges and it is, therefore, Incumbent upon us to seek, where ever possible, new candidates for the Craft.
The Toast to the Charities, the Mark Benevolent Fund and Cleeves and Whitehead Trust, was delivered by W.Bro. Chis Allen, Charity Steward. Responding W.Bro. Paul Levey, Elected member of the Charity Committee, said that is important for us to maintain and increase our support across our membership for our much admired charity. C and W has supported our Brethren and communities strongly particularly through the period of Covid and the Festival and the replenishment of resources must be a priority. The most effective way of achieving this is to increase regular giving beyond the 28% who currently do so; therefore Brethren please consider signing up to a monthly contribution with gift aid where appropriate, It really will make all the difference.
W.Bro. John Beaven Toasting W.Bro. Chris complimented him for leading the Lodge through a most successful year and, with his health improving, long may it continue. W.Bro Chris thanked him for his comments but particularly for the help and assistance he had given him during the period. W.Bro. David Holyhead welcomed the sixteen visitors, superb support, for their attendance which had contributed to a wonderful evening of Mark friendship and fellowship, W.Bro. James Reid echoed these sentiments in his response.
Another thoroughly enjoyable Mark Masonic occasion, Smile and be happy.
V.W.Bro. Duncan Smith P.G.J.O