The importance of family has been a cornerstone of Freemasonry since time immemorial, and this was aptly demonstrated by the companions of Ainsdale Chapter No 5884 in Southport. Richard Gillett has been a long-time stalwart of Freemasonry and a pillar of Ainsdale Chapter. It was with great pride he welcomed his son Callum to be exalted into the chapter, with a special effort made by the Second Grand Provincial Principal Michael Threlfall to mark the occasion and make the occasion extra memorable for the Gillett family.
First principal Richard Gillett opened the chapter with the usual exemplary panache that is the hallmark of Ainsdale Chapter, before announcing a ballot for his son was to be taken by the three principals. Unsurprisingly given the history of the Richard’s own contribution to Freemasonry this proved favourable, much to the delight of the members of the chapter.
However, before the ceremony proper could be started the senior officers of the Province let it known they wished to mark the occasion. The Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Robert Fitzsimmons announced the arrival of the Second Provincial Grand Principal Michael Threlfall, who had responded to a personal invite from Richard himself and could not let the occasion pass without recognition. Michael was duly warmly welcomed into the chapter, along with his entourage of prestigious and senior officers.
The main event of the evening began as the exaltation of Callum began under the ever-watchful eye and attention to detail of the director of ceremonies Mike Wallis. Callum was led round by the principal sojourner Chris Lee, who was determined not to let the Gillett family down and completed his duties with not just a first class display of ritual but also a solemnity and warmth that was mirrored by the other companions involved. Quality was of course highest in the case of Richard himself, who from the first principal’s chair, showed the not just pride but an example of high standards that showed the true meaning of the word father.
Following the ceremony, Callum was congratulated by his father, the Provincial officers and the members of Ainsdale Chapter, who were delighted to welcome another member of the high-flying Gillett family to their ranks.
All then settled down to an enjoyable and welcoming festive board, with the chef of Southport Masonic Hall once again excelling himself with a topside beef that left the companions wanting more. Charity once again also proved a winner from the exaltation of another member of the Gillett family, with a raffle which raised £144 on the night. Ainsdale chapter continues to grow, with all having great faith their future is secure in the hands of the Gillett family and the other crop of new companions. The core values of family, friendship and charity continue to be tenets of this exceptional chapter, and can be seen clearly in the character and integrity of their new recruits.
