The colourful Egyptian Room at Hope Street Masonic Hall in Liverpool was utilised for the ceremony of the 2025 installation ceremony of the three principals of Everton chapter No 823, the room having a connection with the chapter.
On entering this wonderful and colourful room, the plague on the right-hand side explains its historical connection with Everton Chapter, and the generosity of one of its members Albert Ley, which allowed for the refurbishment in August 1999. The chapter holds the memories of Albert fondly within those companions who knew him.
At this installation ceremony, the chapter companions were honoured by the presence of the principal guest, Ian Sanderson Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, and Liverpool Group Chairman Dave Johnson accompanied by Phil Brown, Provincial Grand Steward.
The chapter was opened by Roy Cowley, James Eddowes and Paul Shirley, the first, second and third principals, respectively. John Fagan was balloted for approved and admitted as a joining member to the chapter. The principals welcoming him and presenting him with the by-laws of the chapter.
Next, the principal guests were announced by the director of ceremonies Dave Brighouse and admitted. The principal guest thanked the companions for his welcome and reminded the chapter that the last time he visited he had an enjoyable evening.
The installation ceremony was assisted by Roy Ashley taking the chair of the second principal and Thomas Mc Laughlin taking the chair of the third principal. The companions of the chapter were lined up and thanks were given by Roy for their hard work and assistance. Each newly elected principal having taken their obligations were installed in their respective chair.
Installing first principal Roy Cowley had great delight in installing James Eddowes into the first principal’s chair, explaining his robes, duties and his sceptre. James then proceeded to install Paul Shirley into the chair of the second principal, giving the address of the robe, duties and sceptre. Paul then installed the third principal John McKenzie into the third principal’s chair, and gave the address of the robe, duties and sceptre
Both Paul and John having served in the principal’s positions previously, where delighted to see the first principal placed in his chair for the first time. The appointment and investiture of the officers of the chapter took place. Roy gave the address to the three principals
Companions of the chapter were then addressed by Ian who thanked the principals for the meaningful and excellent way that they had been installed. Ian also brought the best wishes from the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews.
Cheques were presented by the chapter to Ian for the charities. £100 each to the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, Liverpool Masonic Hall and Everton Foodbank, and £400 that had previously been given to the widow’s fund, making a grand total of £700. Ian gave thanks to the companions of the chapter for their generous donations.
After closing the chapter, the companions retired for a festive board, of black pudding stack, or melon, steak and kidney pie or salmon, crème brûlée, or ice cream, and tea or coffee.
The toast to the Provincial Grand Principal was coupled to the principal guest Ian Sanderson who thanked the companions for the toast to his health and brought his own personal congratulations to the newly installed three principals, wishing them a happy and successful year. Ian thanked the Vice Chairman Bob Patterson and the other group officers present for their hard work. Ian brought the messages and communication from Supreme Grand Chapter, regarding membership and charities, and reminded companions of up-and-coming dates.
The toast to the three principals was given by Roy, who stated that those companions who knew Jim from a previous chapter and lodge work, would know he was a superb ritualist, and with Paul and John, the principals have over 40 years of Masonic experience.
Roy Ashley then sang the ‘Principals Song’ that had not been heard for several years, and explained how and when all companions should join in. Jim responded to his toast thanking Roy for the toast and Roy Ashley for the song. He also thanked the chapter DC Dave for his work, and explained he was looking forward to the business that the chapter has coming up, with some exaltations. A gift was presented and greatly received by the principal guest.
Roy Ashley then gave a toast to Albert Ley and further explained the link with the chapter and how his bowler hat will always be seen on the top of the piano, the donation that was left for the use of the companions in the chapter, and the memory of Albert.