The annual installation meeting for Woodend Epworth Lodge No 5381 was held at the Liverpool Masonic Hall. This was a unique evening as Alan Evans was installed in the chair of the lodge for the first time by his brother, Derek Evans, the lodge treasurer. This was a unique evening also for the principal guest who was the Deputy Provincial Grand Master Phil Gunning this was to be his last official engagement before retiring after nine years in his role.
The Deputy Provincial Grand Master was supported by his friends and distinguished guests from the Province, Past Provincial Grand Master Tony Harrison, Malcolm Alexander and Paul Broadley. Also in attendance was the Provincial Senior Deacon John Reynolds and Provincial Grand Steward, Ray Parr. Neil Francis represented the Liverpool Group.
Not to be outdone by the distinguished guests, Woodend Epworth Lodge provided a full attendance in the lodge room with many friends and guests to support the new master. In a faultless and very sincere ceremony, Alan Evans was placed in the chair by his brother Derek. The Address to the master by Ray Moorcroft was given in an impeccable manner.
Following the installation ceremony, Phil Gunning stood and offered the congratulations of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews to Alan Evans in achieving the chair of his lodge. He also thanked the installing master Derek Evans for a first-class ceremony. He had kind words to say about the immediate past master Colin Patterson for his dedication to his lodge in attending every meeting despite living in Switzerland.
One of Alan’s first tasks as master was to hand Phil Gunning a list of donations which included £100 to the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, £100 to the Liverpool Masonic Hall, £100 to the Liverpool Group Charity, £100 to Zoe’s Place and £100 to Prostate Cancer Research UK. The lodge had recently donated £300 to the Liverpool Group Blood Bike Appeal and £200 to Liverpool Group Food Bank Appeal. The total donations amounted to £1000. Phil gave thanks to the brethren of the lodge for their very generous donations.
The festive board had a fantastic atmosphere, with over 45 Masons determined to celebrate and enjoy the evening. Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, Robb Fitzsimmons orchestrated the final part of the evening with professionalism and charm which really enhanced the proceedings.
In replying to the toast to grand officers, Phil Gunning touched on several matters; the importance of PSA testing to detect prostate cancer early, how the Province of West Lancashire was held in high esteem by Grand Lodge, and he praised the lodge for their recruitment process, and he was extremely proud to see the lodge full of over 16 young master Masons. In closing, Phil stated he was proud to be the Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Province of West Lancashire and extremely proud to be a Freemason. His response was met by a cacophony of firing glasses banging on the table.
The toast to the WM was proposed by Derek Evans and in his reply, Alan stated that he had come to Freemasonry late in life when he realised what a fantastic and caring organisation it was. This was met by another cacophony of firing glasses banging on the table. Prior to the distinguished guests retiring, Phil Gunning was presented with a gift from the lodge. He thanked the brethren of the lodge and he hoped that they would all continue the evening’s celebration.
