The annual installation convocation of Temperance Chapter No 2714 was held at Liverpool Masonic Hall and opened in due form by Ian Hayhurst, Jeff Whitehead and Geoff Cuthill who then having dealt with all the ordinary business, welcomed the principal visitor, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals Ian Sanderson. On this occasion Ian was accompanied by Geoff Green, Group Secretary for the Liverpool Group.
With the formalities out of the way, the three principals got on with the task in hand, the ceremony of installation. Director of ceremonies Karl Brennan took control and proclaimed Ian Hayhurst as first principal, Jeff Whitehead as second principal and in his absence due to illness, Jeff Hodge as third principal. The charter of the chapter, book of regulations and by-laws being already in the possession of the first principal, the appointment and investment of officers ensued.
These were followed by an excellent address to the companions of the chapter, delivered by Ian Sanderson. Ian also conveyed the congratulations and good wishes of the Grand Superintendent of the Province of West Lancashire Mark Matthews. He also thanked the Provincial grand officers for their support, expressing admiration for the way that Karl Brennan had performed his duties throughout, and to Geoff Cuthill, group Royal Arch mentor for taking the role of third principal.
Ian Hayhurst then presented Ian Sanderson with two cheques on behalf of the chapter, the first to the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity and the second to the Liverpool Group. Ian gave thanks to the companions of the chapter for their generous donations. Shortly afterwards Ian then retired, after which the chapter was closed in the usual manner and the companions made their way to the banqueting suite.
A very fine meal was enjoyed by all and the customary toasts were proposed. Ian Sanderson covered the subjects the Provincial Grand Superintendent wished to convey, such as charities, membership and that they enjoy their Freemasonry. He thanked the director of ceremonies Karl Brennan for the way the evening had been organised and most importantly, he thanked the members of the chapter for their continued support to charity.
The toast to the three principals was proposed by the past first principal Jim Molloy, and in response Ian Hayhurst thanked all for their part in an excellent ceremony of installation. He also thanked former DC Jeff Hodge and his successor. Following a lovely evening the janitor gave the traditional farewell toast.
Photographs by Geoff Green, report by Geoff Cuthill.