Leyland St Andrew’s Lodge No 7391 celebrated a landmark occasion when holding their installation meeting, and their very first meeting at their new venue, The Hub at Walton Summit. For lodge secretary Paul Wharton-Hardman, the task of coordinating the evening was no small feat, this was the first time any lodge had ever used this brand-new venue. But, in true Masonic spirit, the event went off without a hitch and with all the flair one could hope for.
What made the evening even more remarkable was the distinguished guest list. The Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews delighted the brethren with his presence, along with an array of over a dozen acting Provincial grand officers including both Provincial Grand Wardens, grand officers, an Assistant Provincial Grand Master, and the entire group executive all being in attendance. With such a high-profile gathering, you might expect some nerves, but the brethren of Leyland St Andrew’s Lodge rose to the occasion delivering a flawless ceremony.
Master of the lodge Alan Archer guided the evening’s proceedings with precision, culminating in the installation of The Rev Matthew McMurray, ProvDepGChap, into the WM’s chair. Rev McMurray’s installation was not only conducted in fine form but also featured a dash of modern flair with the introduction of electronic tracing boards, a bold move for a lodge that continues to embrace progress while honouring its traditions. As one brother joked: “Well, that’s one way to bring Freemasonry into the digital age, just wait until we get wireless aprons!”
Accompanying Alan Archer as wardens for the installation were both acting Provincial Grand Wardens Mark Humphreys and Mike Silver, members of the Chorley and Leyland Group in the Province of West Lancashire. The duo were kept busy during the evening with Mike presenting the address to the wardens and Mark addressing the brethren of Leyland St Andrew’s as well, both adding to splendid evening of ritual.
The festive board that followed was every bit as grand as the ceremony. The brethren were treated to a sumptuous main course of blade of beef, perfectly cooked and followed by a cheese board that left no taste bud unattended. The room buzzed with lively conversation and hearty laughter, the warmth of the evening making it feel as though the lodge had always called The Hub its home.
When asked about his experience, the newly installed master, Rev Matthew McMurray, was clearly thrilled: “It was an absolute privilege to be installed in the presence of Mark and so many distinguished brethren. Leyland St Andrew’s is a forward-thinking, inclusive lodge, and I am excited about the year ahead. We’re a lodge that embraces both tradition and innovation, and I couldn’t be prouder to lead us into the future.”
With a perfect balance of ceremony, camaraderie, and modern touches, the installation meeting at The Hub was nothing short of spectacular and was hailed a resounding success by all who attended. As the lodge looks forward to the coming year under Rev McMurray’s leadership, one thing is clear, Leyland St Andrew’s aren’t just keeping up with the times, they’re one of the leading lodges charging forward together.
