February in Widnes is often cold, wet and dark. Yet on this evening, Widnes Masonic Hall shone brightly as brethren gathered for the installation of Gary Holmes into the chair of King Solomon of Lodge of Equity and Appleton. The presence of Assistant Provincial Grand Master John Murphy, added further distinction to what was to become a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable occasion.
Although the ceremony was scheduled to commence at 4:15pm, acting Provincial grand officers began arriving shortly after 3pm to rehearse under the watchful eye of the director of ceremonies Ian Edge. Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, Ian ensured that every officer was confident in his role and that proceedings would unfold seamlessly.
At precisely 4:15pm, Lodge of Equity and Appleton was opened by the WM Cameron Molyneux. He efficiently conducted the necessary business before opening the lodge in the third degree. The director of ceremonies then retired to organise the procession of grand and Provincial grand officers. The principal guest, John Murphy, was accompanied by Group Chairman David Atkinson, David Redhead, Neil Pedder, Ezra McGowan, Paul Brunskill, and Provincial Deacons Les Williams and Stewart Parker.
On entering the lodge, Ian formally introduced John to the WM Cameron who extended a warm welcome, expressing his hope that John would enjoy his visit to Lodge of Equity and Appleton. Exercising his right, Cameron then offered John the lodge gavel for the occasion. With a broad smile, John graciously declined, remarking: “I have heard about the tremendous amount of work you’ve put into making this a wonderful installation, and I have no desire to steal your thunder.” With that, the gavel was returned to Cameron amid warm appreciation.
Following the salutations, the lodge was adjourned in the third degree and resumed in the second degree. Colin Bascombe then presented the master elect, Gary Holmes, to the installing master. As this was not Gary’s first time in the chair, he confidently knelt before the WM and recited his obligation flawlessly, word for word.
The lodge was once again opened in the third degree, declared a Board of Installed Masters, and then Cameron proceeded to install Gary into the chair of King Solomon. The ceremony was delivered in an impressive and dignified manner, clearly reflecting the time, care and preparation invested by the installing master. It was, by any measure, a superb installation.
Following the installation, master Masons, fellow crafts, and entered apprentices were re-admitted. The working tools were presented with equal excellence: those of the master Mason by Ian Edge, the fellow craft by Colin Bascombe and the entered apprentice by Brian Rafferty. Each presentation was delivered in impeccable style and warmly received.
After installing his officers for the ensuing year, Norman Speed delivered a dignified and textbook-perfect address to the wardens, eloquently outlining their duties and reaffirming the enduring principles of the Craft. In like manner, Bob Winch presented a seldom heard and deeply meaningful address to the chaplain, offering words of reflection and solemn guidance that added depth and gravitas to the ceremony.
The final address, that to the newly installed WM, was delivered by Brian Rafferty. Speaking with clarity, sincerity and warmth, Brian conveyed both the significance of the occasion and the lodge’s complete confidence in Gary’s leadership. His words provided a fitting and dignified conclusion to the ceremonial proceedings.
At the close of the ceremony, Ian Edge stood before the WM and announced: “WM, that concludes the ceremony of your installation.” At that moment, John Murphy rose and said: “That is my cue to bring you the greetings and congratulations of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews.” John conveyed Mark’s congratulations to the installing master, Cameron, praising him for an outstanding ceremony. He also acknowledged the excellent work of the director of ceremonies, Ian Edge, whose organisation ensured the evening ran like clockwork. John concluded by commending all those who had taken part, noting that everyone involved should be justifiably proud of such a terrific ceremony.
During the proceedings, the outgoing master, Cameron Molyneux, presented John with charitable cheques totalling an impressive £1,600, clear evidence of the lodge’s ongoing commitment to both Masonic and non-Masonic charities. John gave thanks to the brethren of the lodge for their very generous donations.
In closing, the newly installed WM Gary Holmes, warmly invited all present to join him at the festive board. Before doing so, members and guests gathered at the bar to raise a glass to the health of the new WM of the Lodge of Equity and Appleton. Glasses were raised, and a hearty cheer rang out for Gary.
At the festive board, camaraderie, laughter and enjoyment filled the room, accompanied by good food, fine wine, and even a glass of port, what more could one ask for? The brethren were delighted to be honoured by the presence of John Murphy, who rose to thank the lodge brethren for the warm hospitality. He congratulated Gary on assuming the chair of such a distinguished lodge and praised Cameron for the exemplary way he had fulfilled his duties as installing master. Both, John remarked, had done themselves and the lodge great credit.
Throughout the evening, toasts were made, and wine was shared. Derek Parker proposed the toast to the visitors, with David Rigby responding in equal measure with humour and sincerity. A raffle was held in aid of Masonic and non-Masonic charities, which, together with the lodge collection, raised a very respectable £340.
The highlight of the evening however, was undoubtedly the Master’s Song, performed superbly by the legend that is Norman Pritchard. His rendition was nothing short of brilliant, full of fun and laughter, yet always delivered with warmth and respect. Congratulations Norman, on yet another outstanding performance.
As the evening ended, Gary had one final duty to perform. He took great pleasure in presenting a beautiful bouquet of flowers to John on behalf of the brethren of Lodge of Equity and Appleton. Gary expressed his hope that when John presented the flowers to his wife, she would be suitably pleased, and allow him to return in the not-too-distant future.
With the final toast concluded, the brethren reflected on what had been a truly memorable occasion. They now look forward with anticipation to a successful and enjoyable year ahead, guided by their new WM, Gary Holmes.