Every Freemason knows that a Lewis is the son of a Mason, but what is the great-grandson of a Mason known as? Robert Owen Sims was initiated into West Lancashire Century Lodge No 2349, becoming the fourth generation of Robert Sims to be initiated into Freemasonry.
The WM, Niall Coxey, invited Adam Turner to occupy the chair of King Solomon for the purpose of the ceremony. and Robert Sims was initiated into Freemasonry according to the traditions and customs of West Lancashire Century Lodge.
The working tools of an entered apprentice Freemason were presented to the candidate by junior warden Matthew Ashworth. Robert’s father, Dr Rob Sims, invested him with the distinguishing badge of a Mason and after restoring himself to his personal comforts, Robert returned to the lodge room and Adam Turner delivered the charge after initiation to him in an exemplary manner.
On completion of the ceremony, Robert’s father, Dr. Rob Sims, delivered the first degree charge to him. North Fylde Group Mentor Jim Gregson then welcomed Robert to West Lancashire Century Lodge and Freemasonry and presented him with a welcome pack.
Robert’s grandfather, Bob Sims, rose to thank the lodge for accepting his grandson into Freemasonry and this lodge in particular. Bob continued to thank those brethren who had attended to support himself, his son and grandson. Explaining that Robert is the fourth generation of Sims to be initiated into Freemasonry and all were called Robert. With Bob’s father also being a Mason called Robert Sims. Unfortunately, not a lot is known about Robert’s great-grandfather.
After a wonderful ceremony, the brethren retired to the festive board for a fine meal supplied by Lee and his team at Yes Chef Catering. Robert’s father, Dr Rob Sims, proposed the toast to his son, proudly informing the brethren that Robert has a steady character and a calm head. He has gained his Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award and is currently working as a lifeguard at the Sandcastle Waterpark in south Blackpool.
Dr Rob went on to say that Robert has chosen paths that put service and responsibility first. He has proven his resilience on many occasions, including completing his GCSEs whilst recovering from a dislocated shoulder whilst on a Duke of Edinburgh Award canoe trip.
Robert has faced many testing moments with a maturity well beyond his young years. He recently supported a friend who fell into medical difficulty on a mountain in the Lake District, organising a mountain rescue with the Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team.
Robert has passed the commando preparation course for admission into the Royal Marines and is now applying to serve as a combat medic in the Army. Whatever route Robert takes, he will bring commitment, integrity and a sense of duty, qualities that fit well with the values of Freemasonry.
Robert responded to the toast given by his father by thanking everyone involved in the ceremony, saying that he was looking forward to many years in Freemasonry.
The festive board duly ended with the brethren happy in the knowledge that Freemasonry has a secure future with young men of the calibre of Robert Sims.