Ainsdale Samaritan Lodge No 4342, which meets at Southport Masonic Hall, held what can only be described as a deeply personal and memorable meeting. While the evening was originally scheduled to be a double passing, a last-minute change of circumstances meant the focus shifted to a single candidate.
The evening began on a solemn note before the lodge was formally opened, the brethren stood in a respectful moment of silence to honour the memory of a departed brother, reflecting the true spirit of Masonic brotherhood and remembrance.
Once the lodge was duly opened by the master Ivan Guy and the routine business concluded, the main event of the evening was to pass David Daley to the degree of a fellow craft, and despite a short notice change that saw Mike Killingbeck step in as junior deacon, the ceremony remained seamless. David Daley answered the necessary questions with confidence and was ably conducted throughout the ceremony by the senior deacon David Ward.
The true standout highlight of the evening occurred during the latter part of the ceremony when senior warden James Gray took the floor to deliver the second degree tracing board. It wasn’t merely a recital; it was a masterclass in Masonic ritual. James delivered a full, exhausted version of the second degree tracing board with such precision and passion that the entire lodge watched on in silent awe. The conclusion of his delivery was met with a rare and well-deserved thunderous round of applause from everyone present.
Following the ritual work, the usual risings were conducted and collections for good causes were made, embodying the charitable pillars of the Craft. The brethren then retired to the festive board, where the intimate numbers did nothing to dampen the atmosphere.
The evening concluded with a delightful multi-course meal, warm hospitality extended to all visiting guests. While the meeting may have been smaller in attendance than some, the quality of the work and the warmth of the welcome were second to none. The members of Ainsdale Samaritan Lodge look forward to their next gathering with high spirits. If you have the opportunity to visit Ainsdale Samaritan, do not hesitate. You will find a lodge that prides itself on exceptional ritual and a hearty, sincere welcome.