The Provincial Grand Stewards’ Chapter of West Lancashire No 8516 had an installation to remember at Preston Masonic Hall. At short notice, the convocation was adapted to perform not only the annual installation ceremony but to invest the Province’s latest appointed Deputy Grand Superintendent, David Barr.
David Barr was only appointed 10 days before this convocation, but the occasion was a perfect opportunity to perform his investiture. It was made the more compelling with the Grand Superintendent, Mark Matthews, who was already attending the installation. It certainly swelled the numbers as nearly 100 companions assembled to witness this special occasion.
Once the convocation was opened by first principal Robin Andrews-Morris, the first job was to admit the 11 acting Provincial Grand Stewards as members of the chapter and then the chapter conclude the rest of the regular business. The chapter director of ceremonies David Boyes and the ADC then retired from the chapter to form the procession. The Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Ian Halsall then entered the chapter to inform the companions that the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews stood without and demanded admission.
Robin replied that the chapter would be very pleased to admit him. The procession then entered the chapter and after being greeted by Robin, Mark assumed the first principals chair, and was supported by his Second Provincial Grand Principal Andy Whittle and returning as acting Third Provincial Grand Principal Rev Canon Godfrey Hurst. Once in place, Provincial Grand Chapter was opened and the investiture could take place.
The deputy directors of ceremonies Ian Haslam led the delegation to escort David Barr into the chapter room accompanied by the chain bearer. The ceremonial work followed and David was invested by the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews. Mark welcomed David to this exalted position, recognising his phenomenal service to the Order and wishing him many happy years in office.
Once completed, Provincial Grand Chapter was closed, and the chapter principals assumed their positions. Now the installation of the new three principals of the chapter could proceed. Installing first principal Robin Andrews-Morris installed Robert Fitzsimmons as the first principal for the ensuing year. Rob has served the Province with honour, first as a Provincial Grand Steward and then as a Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies. Michael Harrison was then installed as second principal and Jason Hengler completing the installation as third principal.
The procession out of the chapter room with the Grand Superintendent, his deputy and fellow principals was a sight to behold. Rarely is this seen at close quarters in a chapter room. They were accompanied by grand officers as well as the new acting Provincial Grand Stewards, the latter with a busy and exiting year to savour.
With the business of the convocation completed, the companions retired to the bar to on to a lively festive board to celebrate a fantastic evening.
