Master of the lodge Roy Williams and his wife Gill welcomed all the ladies and brethren of Harmonic Lodge No 216 and their guests to the Sefton Suite at the Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool for their Ladies Evening. With over 60 guests in attendance, each provided with a glass of prosecco on arrival, there was a real buzz about the evening and all settled at their respective tables, in anticipation of a very enjoyable occasion.
Director of ceremonies, John Donnelly, asked all present to stand and introduced to everyone Roy and particularly his wife Gill, as the principal guest of the evening, who received flowers in recognition of the support that partners provide and their invaluable assistance throughout the Masonic year and beyond.
With a pleasant musical interlude whilst the Adelphi staff served dinner, with appointed table stewards ensuring that ladies and guests were well served with wine. In-between the main and desert course, guest Marie who was celebrating her birthday, was surprised with a birthday cake and serenaded by the assembled party with an impromptu ‘Happy birthday to you’.
At the conclusion of the meal, Roy and wife Gill, thanked all the guests for attending and requested all ladies be presented with gifts, which were distributed by the table stewards. All of the partners were delighted with the unexpected presents.
The DC John Donnelly, then rose and invited all present to partake in the Master’s Song. If any of the guests had not heard this song before, it was not noticeable at all, with all joining in and toasting the health of each partner with every chorus. The evening frivolity continued with the introduction of vocalist Scott Johns, who commenced the first half of his repertoire with a well-known set of popular music for all generations. The guests were particularly enthused and soon joined him on the dancefloor.
During the interval, Gill drew the first raffle tickets and the popular prize giving began, with each lady drawing a raffle ticket in turn, until all prizes had been collected. Roy then addressed all present in the room, commenting that he had the evening before, returned home after 10 days in Ukraine, delivering ambulances and medical equipment on behalf of the charity Casus Pax.
Casus Pax was set up by Holly Tann and Adam McQuire of University Lodge of Liverpool No 4274. Roy described the journey and the work that the charity does as inspirational and took the opportunity to share his thoughts and experiences and hoped that we would all spread the word about this amazing charity. Roy commented that he would be returning to Ukraine within the week to deliver more aid.
With the return of vocalist Scott Johns, the dance floor quickly filled up to capacity with guests enjoying the entertainment and fine company. With the evening drawing to a close it was all too soon, with carriages waiting and reflection on a wonderful Harmonic Ladies Evening.