Brethren of Lodge of Truth No 6235 had the pleasure of Mark Matthews, the Provincial Grand Master, to see the passing of Dale Calderbank to a fellow craft. Mark greeted Dale before the ceremony and asked that they have a photograph taken together, this was obviously a big occasion for an entered apprentice like Dale.
Once everybody was seated, the lodge eventually opened in the first degree and Dale was then asked the questions of the degree by the master of the lodge Bill Jay. Dale was exemplary in his answers, this was appreciated by the nodding of heads of the brethren as a confirmation to his efforts in learning them so fluently.
The ceremony was done in an exemplary manner by Bill with excellent support from the deacons and wardens David Pickles, the acting senior warden, gave a brilliant rendition of the long version of the working tools of the second degree to the candidate. Bill finished the ceremony with a superb explanation of the second degree tracing board.
Mark gave what was definitely worthy comments as to the excellence of the whole ceremony from start to finish. After the distinguished guests retired, the lodge was then closed in peace and harmony.
At the social board, the organising was under the watchful eye of Barry Fitzgerald, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies. Eventually, after the formal toasts, Mark stood to mention to the brethren the importance of masters and brethren visiting lodges in their own group and the importance of joining the Royal Arch chapter.
Dale Calderbank has worked in the technical retail industry for the past 15 years, managing various top brands, and currently the manager at Currys, leading a team of 45 on a daily basis to ensure the store is running smoothly from compliance to finish.
He was proposed by Alex De Lucchi, he and Alex have been friends for many years. Alex joined the Craft two years prior to Dale, he has always had a curiosity about Freemasonry, when he was ready, he asked Alex how could he join. He became an entered apprentice in March 2024 and his journey so far has been amazing, He is looking forward to the future and will be looking to join the Royal Arch after his third degree.
Dale lives in Wigan with his wife and 3-year-old son. Has played the guitar since he was five and has been in various bands. These days he doesn’t play as much due to work and raising his son, but he loves playing guitar in his down time, He likes technology and is always looking for the latest innovation and in his spare time going on long hikes around the peaks of the UK.