The driving wind and rain could not dampen the spirit of 48 brethren who attended the January 2024 meeting of Scorton Lodge No 5791. This was a very special lodge meeting as Scorton Lodge members had kindly agreed to work a second degree ceremony on behalf of their colleagues in Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire No.6615.
Colin Hetherington was initiated into Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire in March 2023 at Silverdale Masonic Hall and would have been passed as a fellow craft at the October 2023 meeting of Old Huttonian Lodge No.7614 had he not been suffering with illness at the time. Mike Casey, WM of Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire said: “We are delighted that Scorton Lodge has agreed to undertake Colin’s second degree ceremony. Many members of Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire are brethren of Scorton Lodge, so this makes it particularly pleasant for Colin and everyone supporting him on the night.”
The meeting was opened by Scorton Lodge WM Colin Preston who commenced with regular business items. prior to the ceremony starting, Colin Preston requested Andrew McClements to kindly occupy the WM’s chair. The ceremony was expertly led by Andy and the team of Scorton Lodge officers, who delivered a first class passing to the second degree.
The partnership between the two lodges was clearly evident when three members of Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire, Ian Heyes, John Fenton and John Topping, delivered a seamless and perfect demonstration of the second tracing board.
On resuming his chair, WM Colin Preston thanked all the officers and brethren of both lodges who had worked in partnership to deliver such a quality passing ceremony for Colin Hetherington. The lodge was then closed.
A very pleasant festive board ensued with a two-course buffet of hotpot, mushy peas and red cabbage, followed by apple crumble and custard, and was enjoyed by all. The raffle, expertly managed by Andy McClements and David Jenkinson raised the impressive sum of £240.
The Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire will celebrate its first anniversary at the installation ceremony on Wednesday 31 January 2024 at The Palace, St Annes-On-Sea. Any brother wishing to attend, please see flyer below for details of how to apply for a place at the ceremony and festive board.
Pictures and report by John Topping.