Richard Walker and Carl Carrigan were initiated into Freemasonry during a remarkable double first degree ceremony at Prescot Masonic Hall. After conducting the Dominion Lodge No 4289 business, the visitors were introduced and vouched for by the brethren of the lodge. Among those present was Andy Whittle, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, who attended to witness the exceptional ceremonies that Dominion Lodge is known for.
Andy was introduced to the WM Sam Conroy, who welcomed him warmly. As is customary, Sam offered Andy the gavel, which Andy graciously declined, explaining that since he was enjoying a rare night off from his Masonic duties, he wished only to relax and appreciate the ceremony.
Sam requested Scott McMillan to take the chair of King Solomon for the next part of the ceremony. Scott, with a smile, enthusiastically accepted Sam’s request. An alarm sounded and the inner guard Billy Harrison announced that both the treasurer and secretary stood without and requested admission. Upon being admitted, treasurer Ray Stones stated that both candidates had paid their dues, while Secretary Mick Southern confirmed that both had signed the book of declaration, and the ceremony could now begin.
There was a report, and inner guard reported that Richard Walker humbly requested to be admitted. WM Scott granted his request and called upon his deacons to take charge of the candidate. Junior deacon Tyler Broadhurst took control and assisted by the senior deacon Joshua Payton, guided Richard confidently around the temple. When presented to WM Scott, Richard answered all questions and repeated his obligation with clarity and confidence. Richard took a seat in the body of the lodge, and it was now the turn of candidate number two, Carl Carrigan to enter.
Carl conducted himself with dignity, and with the guidance of the junior deacon Tyler, it was clear that he felt comfortable with the proceedings. After taking his obligation senior deacon Joshua picked up Richard, who was in the unique position of witnessing what he himself had just gone through, and both candidates were again presented to Scott. The ceremony proceeded with Richard and Carl together, and it was evident to everyone present that WM Sam Conroy had made an excellent choice by delegating the initiation ceremony to Scott. He performed the ceremony flawlessly, always wearing a smile on his face.
On being invested with the distinguishing badge of a Mason, the candidates were positioned at the north east corner of the lodge and were requested to pay attention to Andy Jackson who addressed them both as newly admitted Freemasons. It was obvious that Andy had presented this address on many occasions as he addressed our new made brothers with clarity and confidence in his ability to do a great job, which he did.
The working tools of an entered apprentice were presented by Frank Lees. This was the second time that Frank, a young light blue member, deliver the working tools. This presentation was his best yet, and he deserves commendation for a fantastic job well done. Scott directed Richard and Carl’s attention to the warrant of the lodge and presented them with the Book of Constitutions and bylaws of the lodge, before allowing them to retire to restore themselves to their personal comforts. Upon their return, the Charge after Initiation was delivered by the senior warden Stephen Flood in an exemplary manner. The labours of the evening now being ended, WM Sam closed the lodge and invited everyone to join him at the festive board.
The festive board was a lively event, and anyone who has visited Dominion Lodge knows they enjoy a song or two. Then came the moment that all initiates dread, the DC’s hand on their shoulder: “Time for your response, brother.” If Richard and Carl felt anxious, they didn’t show it; both responded to the toast to their health with great poise, earning rapturous applause as they sat down.
After their response to the toast, Paul Brunskill and Keith Lindsay presented Richard and Carl with their Mersey Valley Group welcome packs. There was just enough time for a final song to absent brethren before heading home. Thank you to Dominion Lodge for the warmth of your hospitality.