Tuesday 24th September 2024 saw W.Bro. David Metcalfe of The Lodge of Friendship No.750 become the newest member of Old York Lodge of M.M.M. T.I.
It was a busy night as various administration had to be dealt first. The Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro. J. Trevor Bolton was finally admitted with an escort from the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge under the guidance of W.Bro. Stuart Prince a Prov. A.G.D.C. and, was offered the gavel. Trevor took it and quickly passed it saying he was happy to be here for a special night of someone he knew very well but, tongue in cheek was a little disappointed at only being as important as item 7 on the agenda and, perhaps he should consider whether to attend in future!
The ceremony then took place and, David was splendidly Advanced to become a Mark Master Mason. Everyone taking part did a super job, laying claim to be the Premier Lodge. Although Trevor later with a mischievous grin said you may well claim to be the Premier Lodge but certainly can’t claim to be the Flagship Lodge!
It was a great Festive board with lots of fun. In the absence of Davids proposer who,was on holiday in China Trevor gave the toast to the candidate. Trevor spoke of them being friends for many years and that their families had grown up together. David would certainly make a great Mark Mason. He went on to say David was his barber and that for many years he had tried to persuade David to become a Freemason. Eventually he had the good news that David had joined the order only to found out his Craft Lodge was in Durham. Not to be disappointed Trevor congratulated him and said when the time is right you could always join my Mark Lodge. Again, Trevor had the news that David had indeed joined but, not at Trevor’s Lodge! Trevor then welcomed him to the order and Old York saying he would certainly enjoy everything the order had to offer. He closed saying I best not say much more as who knows what will happen the next time I go for a haircut!
David in response thanked Trevor for his kind words and their friendship. He said he was looking forward to many happy years in the order and, hopefully had plans to bring his son who was a Freemason into the Mark
The responder to the visitor’s toast was W.Bro. John Madigan of Dartmouth Lodge of M.M.M. No.545. John said it really had been a great night with a warm welcome, a great ceremony and a fantastic Festive board. He said it was great to see so many visitors especially from the B.D.I.M.A. who had there the President, Vice-President, Junior Vice-President, Treasurer and, secretary. Closing saying yes, Old York certainly were the Premier Lodge but, only in Cleckheaton!
Welcome Bro. David Metcalfe to our fantastic order may you have many years of fun, friendship and continue to make further steps in your Masonic Knowledge.
Andrew Johnson
Communications Manager