Prescot Masonic Hall was the venue for the installation of the new WM, Mark Thomas. Old Priory Lodge No 6362 was opened by the WM Jeff Lamb, and after completing the necessary business, Jeff opened the lodge to the third degree.
Director of Ceremonies David Hickman then entered and announced that Assistant Provincial Grand Master Peter Schofield stood without and demanded admission. Peter entered accompanied by several grand and acting Provincial grand officers. Jeff greeted Peter warmly and hoped he would have a delightful afternoon and evening in the company of all the brethren of Old Priory Lodge.
Once everyone had taken their seats again, Jeff formally greeted Peter and offered him the lodge’s gavel. Peter respectfully declined, expressing his appreciation for the hard work Jeff and his team had put into making the installation ceremony a wonderful event. He mentioned that he preferred to sit back and enjoy the occasion. DC David Hickman stepped forward to extend warm salutations to Peter, followed by greetings to the grand and Provincial grand officers present.
Labour was resumed at the second degree, and the WM Jeff asked Jim Price to assist the lodge by occupying the senior warden’s chair. He also requested Ken Acton to take the junior warden’s chair and George Flinn to serve as inner guard. All graciously accepted the positions.
David Hickman introduced master elect Mark Thomas to Jeff Lamb. Jeff then addressed the brethren, pointing out some important observations and drawing attention to the necessary qualifications for Mark. After Mark took his obligation, he took his seat in the lodge. At this point, all members below the rank of an installed master were asked to leave the lodge temporarily. Jeff then asked Brendan Hutchison if he would assist by taking the chair and conduct the inner workings. Brendan was happy to accept this request.
Mark was installed as the WM in a commendable manner by Jeff and Brendan, to the acclaim of all installed masters present; both can be rightfully proud of their achievements. When the board of installed masters was closed, the ceremony continued with the presentation of the working tools. Paul Duncalf flawlessly presented the tools for the third degree, while Ken Acton and David Hickman presented the second and first degree tools, respectively. The address to the WM was delivered by Brendan Hutchison impeccably, and the address to the wardens was delivered with aplomb by Jim Price, as we have come to expect.
The addresses to the deacons and the inner guard were skilfully delivered by the lodge’s two younger brethren, Paul Duncalf and Mark Hathaway. Their presentations were marked by a remarkable blend of confidence and precision, capturing the attention of all in attendance. After the installation ceremony, Peter Schofield conveyed the congratulations of the Provincial Grand Master, Mark Matthews.
He stated that had Mark been present, he would have congratulated everyone involved in what was a remarkable ceremony. Before taking his seat, Peter was presented with charitable cheques totalling £1,150. Peter thanked the brethren of the lodge for their very generous donations.
WM Mark closed the lodge and warmly invited everyone to the festive board. The event was a joyful occasion, featuring a delightful acapella performance of the Master’s Song by Graham Williams. During the festive board, a raffle was held to benefit both Masonic and non-Masonic charities, raising £150. Old Priory Lodge can take great pride in all the brethren who contributed to making this a memorable night for Mark.
