Brethren and visitors alike assembled for the Goodwill Lodge No 3896 meeting at Widnes Masonic Hall to witness the passing Stuart Pennock and Paul Lawson as they make their next step in their Masonic journey to the second degree.
WM of Goodwill Lodge Robert Smith ably assisted by his wardens opened the lodge in the first degree, then proceeded to ask the required questions of both entered apprentices. Having answered the required questions impeccably, they retired from the lodge to be prepared for the ceremony of passing whilst the lodge was opened in the second degree, all under the watchful eye of lodge director of ceremonies Lewis Redhead.
On the return of Stuart and Paul into the lodge, master of the lodge Robert Smith, assisted by the lodge deacons who escorted Stuart and Paul on their journey, proceeded with the ceremony, of passing both Stuart and Paul to the degree of a fellow craft Freemason on what was a very special evening for the lodge.
Having completed the proceedings thus far it was time for John Kelso to give an explanation of the second degree working tools, this duty was carried out superbly with the Stuart and Paul paying great attention.
John Horn then took to the floor of the lodge to give an explanation of the second degree tracing board. As anyone who has seen John delivering ritual would know, this was carried out expertly and was a joy to behold.
Following the remainder of the lodge business and the labours of the day being ended, the lodge was closed in the usual fashion and the brethren retired to enjoy a well-earned festive board.