Warrington Masonic Hall, home of the Gilbert Greenall Chapter No 1250, celebrated its 144th installation convocation in the esteemed presence of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews. The event was also graced by Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals John Murphy, Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Ian Halsall, Warrington Group Chairman John Tyrer, along with several grand officers and nine acting Provincial grand officers.
The meeting of the chapter was called to order at 5:15 pm by Malcolm McIntosh, the first principal of the chapter. It began with a eulogy delivered by James Walker, in honour of Alan Thomas, who passed to the Supreme Grand Chapter above on 11 November 2024. The companions observed a moment of silence in respect for departed merit.
After concluding the chapter’s business, Ian Halsall requested all companions to stand as they welcomed Mark Matthews, the Grand Superintendent, accompanied by seven grand officers and nine acting Provincial grand officers. Mark was introduced to the three principals, and as was his right, was offered the sceptre by Malcolm, which he graciously declined with thanks.
Kevin Hickman, Barry Corcoran and Philip Hudson, were installed as the first principal, second principal and third principal respectively, following ancient custom. After their installation, first principal Kevin appointed and invested his officers.
John Walkey, chapter director of ceremonies, announced that Alan Bristow was to step down as scribe Ezra after seven years of dedicated service. Darren Brown has been appointed as scribe Ezra for the ensuing year.
John McIntyre, vice chairman of the Warrington Group, took the floor to commend the exceptional work that Alan accomplished during his tenure as scribe Ezra of the chapter. He also highlighted Alan’s contributions as scribe Ezra of the Loyalty Chapter of Installed Principals No 897. Alan’s efforts were met with enthusiastic applause from all in attendance.
After expressing his heartfelt gratitude to John McIntyre for his kind words and to all the companions present for their support, Alan Bristow presented the first principal Kevin Hickman with a new minute book. His gesture was warmly received by all present.
Kevin Hickman then presented Mark with several charitable cheques. Mark asked if it would be appropriate to inform the companions about the recipients and the amounts they were to receive. He announced that Zoe’s Place, the Warrington Talking Newspaper, the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, St. Rocco’s Hospice and Room at the Inn Warrington, would each receive a generous donation of £250, totalling £1,250. Coincidentally, this amount matched the number of the chapter. Mark thanked the companions of the chapter on behalf of the recipients for their generous donations.
During the first rising, Kevin asked Mark Matthews if he would present Ike Melifonwu with his Supreme Grand Chapter Certificate, Mark was only too delighted to do so.
After the first rising, Ian Halsall called all acting Provincial grand officers to form the recession and asked everyone to stand while Mark Matthews and the other distinguished guests retired from the chapter.
Upon closing the chapter, first principal Kevin warmly invited all companions to join him and his co-principals at the festive board. The festive board was a lively affair with the companions enjoying a fine meal, great company and a rather nice glass of wine.
In response to the toast to his health, Mark addressed the membership challenge facing the province. He emphasized the importance of encouraging Craft members who have yet to advance in their Masonic journey to join the Royal Arch. In conclusion, Mark expressed his gratitude to Alan Bristow for his many years of service to the chapter and wished him a long and happy retirement.
Enjoying the festive board.