The Masonic temple, Kingsway, Widnes was the venue for the initiation into Freemasonry for Ernest Brown (Ernie) into Goodwill Lodge No 3896. In the absence of the WM James Ross, David Redhead took the WM’s chair and opened the lodge in due form and completed the domestic business of the lodge and the ballot was taken for Ernie which proved successful.
At that point, the treasurer of Goodwill Lodge entered the lodge room and declared that the necessary paperwork had been completed and Ernie had paid his dues. The tyler of the lodge then prepared Ernie for the start of his journey into Freemasonry.
David Redhead then requested Paul Smythe to take the chair and undertake the initiation which he accepted. Ernie entered the lodge to undertake his obligation and Paul carried out the initiation including the explanation of the working tools in the first degree. Ernie retired from the lodge for a short period and on his return, Lewis Redhead delivered the ancient charge.
Paul Smythe handed the WM’s chair back to David Redhead who closed the lodge and the brethren retired to the festive board where Ernie gave a speech in thanking everyone for their participation in the ceremony and sincere manner and warmth in being welcomed into the lodge.
Ernest had had been unable to enter Freemasonry earlier due to work commitments and now he was looking forward to attending meetings and different events including ladies’ nights with his wife.
