The companions of Chapter of Liverpool No 292 held their installation convocation in the beautiful Egyptian Suite at Liverpool Masonic Hall, Hope St, Liverpool, and they were delighted and honoured to receive Paul Shepherd, Past Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, representative of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews accompanied by Liverpool Group Chairman David Johnson and group representative Peter Connolly.
Overseeing the ceremony of installation was director of ceremonies Phil Pattullo who did an excellent job of organising the proceedings on the night. Brian Jackson was installed as first principal, with John McKenna being installed as second principal and Steve Linton was installed as third principal. The ritual was delivered with due reverence and solemnity whilst at the same time retaining an element of humour It is obvious that the companions know their ritual and enjoy performing it very much indeed.
Brian Jackson appointed and invested his officers, and after delivery of the robe addresses, Paul Shepherd rose to bring the congratulations and gratitude of Mark Matthews to the three Principals and Brian responded by thanking Paul for taking the time to attend the meeting and continued by saying that it was nice to see him back in good health and in such good form.
Paul was then presented with two cheques, the first for £250 for the benefit of the Friends of Tithebarn and the second for £250 for the Merseyside & Cheshire Blood Bikes. A total of £500 which is an outstanding achievement. Paul was delighted to receive such a generous donation to charity and congratulated the companions for their sterling work. He assured everybody that the donations were gratefully received and would be faithfully applied.
Upon the closing of the convocation, the companions retired to a sumptuous festive board where yet again the food was excellent. Paul talked about the Pathway process for recruitment and retention, the Archway initiative and the need to take care of those companions who are not able to make convocations for whatever reason. It is vital to maintain contact with those who may unknowingly be in need.
The laughter and banter around the room proved that the companions in this chapter enjoy their Royal Arch Masonry. The future for Chapter of Liverpool looks bright as candidates are waiting in the wings for exaltation next season.