Deputy Provincial Grand Master Frank Umbers was present when Cristian Murani was raised to the sublime degree of a master Mason at Lancaster Castle Lodge No 5952.
Frank was accompanied by Assistant Provincial Grand Master Peter Schofield and Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies David Boyes. Acting Provincial grand officers in attendance were: Provincial Grand Sword Bearer Jimmy Nisbet; Provincial Grand Charity Steward Andy McClements; Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies Ian Woods; and Provincial Grand Stewards Matt Catlow and Matty Woods. The Lancaster and District Group was represented by chairman Chris Larder and secretary Lee Fisher.
The lodge was opened in the first and second degrees by WM Derek Allen, who welcomed Frank Umbers and offered him the gavel of the lodge, which he politely returned. Lodge business was conducted and then the candidate was presented to the WM by senior deacon Bill Spencer. The usual questions were put to the candidate, who answered them with great candour.
The candidate was then requested to leave the lodge room, at which time the room was prepared for the raising ceremony; then lodge secretary Trevor Barber occupied the chair of King Solomon to conduct the next part of the ceremony.
The lodge was opened in the third degree and the candidate was re-admitted and escorted round the lodge by the senior deacon. At the end of the ceremony, Cristian was presented with his master Mason’s apron by senior warden Keith Heys and congratulated by Trevor Barber.
Cristian was invited to leave the lodge to restore himself to his personal comforts and on his return Phil Howden presented the traditional history of the degree in fine form. WM Derek Allen resumed his rightful place as WM.
Frank Umbers addressed the brethren and guests of Lancaster Castle Lodge and brought his greetings. He congratulated the WM and all those who had taken part in the ceremony. The lodge was then closed in the third degree at which point Frank Umbers, accompanied by Peter Schofield and acting Provincial grand officers, retired. The lodge was then closed in the second and first degrees and brethren retired to the dining room for the festive board.
A total of 45 brethren dined at the festive board, which included brethren from Runic Lodge No 6019 and Torrisholme Lodge No 5245 on their fraternal visits.