Thurston Chapter 2525 has held its ceremony of installation at Ulverston Masonic Hall in the presence of Chris Butterfield. Supporting Chris were Furness and South Lakeland Group Chairman Alan Pattinson and vice chairman and Chris Gray.
The chapter opened at half past five by the first principal David Smith, and after the necessary duties were completed, Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Gary Smith entered the chapter and announced that Chris Butterfield, Deputy Grand Superintendent for the Province of West Lancashire, stood without and demanded admission.
Seven acting Provincial grand officers accompanied Chris and they were led in by the Provincial Grand Stewards in their final Furness and South Lakeland Group outing before Provincial Grand Chapter, which is the culmination of a year’s work supporting ceremonies throughout the Province.
The Deputy Grand Superintendent was introduced to the three principals and first principal David Smith offered Chris his sceptre, as was his right. However, Chris quickly returned the sceptre, saying he was attending to enjoy the ceremony and took his seat. Chris was accompanied by Gary Rogerson Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, Chris Band Past Second Provincial Grand Principal, David Grainger Past Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals and other grand officers.
The three principals were then installed. It was a shortened ceremony as both John Wrennall and Philip Preston are past first principals. Gary Mansfield was installed in fine style by Philip Preston as third principal. The robe addresses were given by the three installing principals to each of their successors. Gary Rogerson gave the address to the companions of Thurston Chapter in a very sincere manner.
On completion of the ceremony, Chris Butterfield rose to compliment all who had taken part in the ceremony and to offer his congratulations and thanks to Thurston Chapter’s director of ceremonies, Barry Hadley. John Wrennall was pleased to hand Chris a note which said that a £400 donation to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity had been made on behalf of the chapter. Chris thanked John and the companions of the chapter for their generous donation.
After the chapter had been closed, the assembled companions retired to the festive board for an enjoyable meal and a convivial evening.
