Everton Chapter No 823 hosted its installation meeting at Liverpool Masonic Hall, Hope Street, with 40 companions and guests attending the ceremony and festive board. The principal guest was Paul Shepherd who was accompanied by David Johnson, the Chairman of Liverpool Group.
To get the meeting off to a good start three new joining members were welcomed into the chapter. The chapter was opened in fine form by the three principals and the companions soon got proceedings under way to perform the installation of the three principals elect; Paul Shirley as first principal, Stephen Roberts as second principal and Brian Gillbanks for the first time into the chair of the third principal.
The ceremony followed the unique ritual of Everton Chapter, of which the companions are extremely proud, with every companion taking part in performing the ritual to an excellent standard. Indeed, there was hardly a prompt needed from start to finish and without the need for a prompt or for any part to be read.
The prayers were read with sincerity by Roy Cowley and the address to the principals was superbly delivered by the past first principal Jim Eddowes. The officers were appointed and the chapter’s charter was delivered to the safekeeping of the newly installed first principal. Once the ceremony of installation had been completed, Paul Shepherd rose to congratulate the new principals, wishing them a successful, fruitful and happy year in office.
He specifically thanked Jim for a truly outstanding and flawless ceremony of installation. He also congratulated everybody who took part in the proceedings and continued by stating he had thoroughly enjoyed the ceremony and assured everyone that it would remain in the memory bank for many years to come.
Paul Shirley announced that the chapter had raised £820 for charity over the previous year and provided Paul Shepherd with the list of beneficiaries. Paul thanked the chapter companions for their generosity and reassured everybody that the funds would be gratefully received and faithfully applied.
Upon the closing of the chapter, the companions retired to a sumptuous festive board of black pudding stack, roast chicken, apple crumble and custard. The atmosphere during the meal was delightfully boisterous with great conviviality and much wine taking. A great night thoroughly enjoyed by all present.
Report by Dave Johnson.