It’s always an exciting occasion when a new master is installed into the chair of King Solomon for the first time, but it’s extra special when it’s your father installing you as master. St James Lodge No 8910 meet at Westhoughton Masonic Hall, which was the evening’s location for the splendid and heartwarming installation of their master elect, Stuart Thomas.
The lodge was opened by master James Grime who had been installed by his son, immediate past master Daniel Grime at their previous installation. Shortly after opening the lodge, James invited Dave Thomas to take the chair for the ceremony, and to install his son Stuart as master. The ceremony was delivered very well, and Stuart was a natural in the chair following his installation.
Representing the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews at the ceremony was Assistant Provincial Grand Master Peter Lockett, who was accompanied by the Chorley and Leyland Group Chairman David Bishop and group vice chairman, Provincial Junior Grand Warden Mike Silver, as well as a number of grand officers.
The working tools were expertly delivered by David Grime, David Greenhough and Paddy Wilkinson, which was great to see so many light blue Masons involved. Peter Allen then took to the floor to give St James Lodge new master Stuart his address, before Malcolm Dewhurst gave the address to the wardens, both delivered perfect ritual.
Following the investiture of lodge officers, Peter Lockett addressed the brethren of the lodge with equally flawless ritual and shared the greetings of Mark Matthews, Provincial Grand Master of West Lancashire. Before closing the lodge, Peter was presented with a list of four charity donations totalling £1,500. The cheques were gratefully received and read out to the brethren and guests. Peter thanked the brethren of the lodge for their generous donations.
Down at the festive board, Peter gave his own best wishes to the new master and his lodge members, thanking them for a wonderful evening. Newly installed master Stuart Thomas then replied to the toast to his health and said that he would endeavour to work hard to ensure that the lodge had a busy and successful year.
The festive board was enjoyed by everyone and the raffle raised £380. To end the evening, the Master’s Song was sung by Mike Silver, and following the tyler’s toast and a last word from the new master the evening ended.
