On a very cold mid-week evening the Lodge of Loyalty No 86 brethren assembled at Prescot Masonic Hall to initiate Steven Lay into their very warm and welcoming ranks. The lodge was opened by the WM Mark Hodgson, assisted by his principal officers acting senior warden Paul Warburton and junior warden Tom Chambers.
Then the business of the lodge for the evening commenced, the minutes were circulated to all brethren present by the lodge’s secretary, the visitors admitted, officers invested and then the lodge secretary and treasurer left the lodge chamber to check that the initiate to Freemasonry, Steven Lay, had paid the fees due upon initiation and had also signed the declaration book, After a couple of minutes had elapsed, they re-entered the room confirming that both the above had been completed.
After that Steven’s time to shine had finally arrived. Steven, the son of Norman Lay, showed unwavering confidence throughout the proceedings, was led in by the very proud acting senior deacon Norman Lay and the junior deacon Paul Rawlinson who came to Masonry through the Pathway as well as lodge steward Yanos Lauizos!
The obligation was put to the test, yet the confidence of the newly made brother did not falter in the slightest, he carried on with a determined glint in his eyes that would have the bravest of people trembling as he passed by. A flawless north east corner address was delivered by Peter Hornby. An awe-inspiring working tools explanation was given by the junior warden. The same can be said of the charge which was delivered by Graham Hughes.
The initiation was concluded after the charge by the WM. The communications were delivered by the secretary and the lodge was closed at 19:45hrs. Steven Lay was presented with his welcome pack by Mersey valley Group Mentor Ian Edge.
A tremendous ceremony and a very memorable occasion were had by all who attended it and the festive board afterwards, where the toast to Steven’s health was given by his very proud father Norman. It was responded to by an equally proud son who will no doubt be a valued member of the Lodge of Loyalty long into the future!
The festive board also had several other toasts, the usual Masonic flare, camaraderie, fun and a feast befitting such a special occasion. The lodge brethren and visitors also raised a total of £120 for charity on the night.