Whilst the sun baked and sizzled across the Fylde coast, a determined group of companions of Saturnian Chapter No 7563, watched by an impressive team of visitors, delivered a sizzler demonstration ceremony of exaltation at Cleveleys Masonic Hall. This was the first time that the chapter had met in the newly appointed chapter room, which was the former lodge room two. Due to the incredibly high temperatures outside it was agreed that everyone could dispense with their black jackets on this occasion.
For their last meeting of the season, the three principals were ably supported throughout the convocation by stand-in officers occupying the roles of two of the chapter officers, scribe Ezra and janitor. The chapter was also pleased to have the company of two grand officers, Norman Thomas and Peter Greathead, as well as two acting Provincial grand officers, Provincial Grand Scribe Nehemiah John Topping and Provincial Deputy Grand Sword Bearer John Pitches.
The usual chapter business was efficiently managed by first principal Steve Willingham who announced the main item of business which was for members of the chapter to demonstrate the exaltation ceremony. For which purpose first principal Steve invited Provincial Grand Scribe Nehemiah and visiting officer for Saturnian Chapter, John Topping, to act as the candidate for the ceremony. John gladly accepted the kind invitation.
Under the watchful eye of chapter veteran and director of ceremonies Norman Thomas, the ceremony proceeded with pace and precision, as scribe Nehemiah David Jenkinson and janitor Tom Egan worked the chapter door with great skill. All the companions involved with the ceremony had clearly learned and practised very hard, to achieve such a commendable level of delivery of the Saturnian Chapter ritual.
The chapter’s multi-talented assistant director of ceremonies, Shaun Haynes, served as principal sojourner and delivered a first-class performance whilst moving swiftly between the organ and chapter floor wherever possible. John Topping commented that it is always a joy to be present in Masonic meetings when the organ is played so beautifully; adding that extra spiritual dimension to the event.
Immediately following the demonstration, third principal and almoner Scott Coxey gave a moving account and update of his recent visits to companions who are currently unwell and thus unable to attend chapter. He was thanked by first principal Steve and received a round of applause for his work.
Similar thanks were extended to John Topping for agreeing to be the candidate, Bob Stafford for his sterling work in the chapter as scribe Ezra, Tom Egan as janitor and Ian Winnard as second assistant sojourner.
Following a photo shoot, the companions retired downstairs to rehydrate and to enjoy a simple but much appreciated buffet meal, whilst discussing the work of the evening and to welcome Mark Stevenson and Derek Wilde, two prospective ‘brethren to dine’. Mark and Derek have been introduced to Saturnian Chapter by Shaun Haynes and Steve Willingham respectively from West Lancashire Century Lodge No 2349 and are looking forward to becoming Royal Arch Masons later in 2026 and early 2027.
A raffle took place which raised an impressive £117 for Masonic and non-Masonic charities. Scribe Nehemiah, David Jenkinson won first prize and chose a very special drinking glass complete with a straw and containing boiled sweets for his young daughter. Bottle prizes were won by four lucky winners.
