The venue for the installation De Grey and Ripon Chapter No 1356 of its three Principals was the Geoffrey Hirst Suite at Woolton Golf Club. First principal Graham Fairley opened the chapter with the assistance of the second and third principals. The domestic business of the chapter was concluded including the election of third principal Barrie Mault.
Director of ceremonies Steven Williams requested the companions to be upstanding to receive Graham Chambers, the representative of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews, accompanied by David Atkinson, the Chairman of the Mersey Valley Group. Graham was warmly welcomed into the chapter by the three principals.
The installation began with Adam Kennaugh presenting Barrie Mault as third principal elect, who then took his obligation in the north of the chapter. A portion of scripture selected for installation of third principal was read by Graham Chambers and then Barrie knelt while the prayer was also read. Adam then presented Albert Hogg as second principal elect who reaffirmed his previous obligation and a passage scripture selected for installation of second principal was read by Richard Gillett and then the prayer was taken. Adam then presented Keith Lindsay as first principal elect who then took his obligation as first principal and a portion of scripture selected for installation of first principal was read by David Atkinson and the prayer was taken.
The three Principals were then installed in their respective chairs after giving the passwords and saluting their sceptres before taking their chairs. Keith Lindsay as first principal, Albert Hogg as second principal and Barrie Mault as third principal. Peter Dodd gave the address to the three principals and on completion of the installation, Graham Chambers rose to congratulate everyone on an excellent ceremony. Keith then presented Graham with a cheque for £!50 for West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, which was accepted by Graham who thanked the companions of the chapter for their generous donation. This was followed by Graham Chambers presenting Derek Nuttall with his Supreme Grand Chapter Certificate.
Before closing the chapter, the companions had some domestic business to discuss due to Woolton Golf Club not being available to cater for lodge and chapter meetings from the end of May, they are now considering a new venue to hold their meetings.
After closing the chapter, the companions retired to the festive board and enjoyed a meal. In the response to the toast to his health, Graham Chambers spoke about the membership challenge and how it must be the right time for men to join. It is better for friends and work colleagues to be asked to join and to consider the age profile of the lodge they are joining. When a candidate has been initiated it is important that the Form P is submitted as soon as possible so that a membership survey can be completed. Graham encouraged the promotion of community engagement and to invite the public into the halls with Christmas fairs and other events.
Graham is now Chairman of the Friends of Tithebarn, the home is supported by all the lodges in our Province and there are going to be open days when small groups can have a tour of the home with tea and sandwiches provided. He spoke warmly about how the grounds had improved with the pond and how the residents have access to all areas.
