On a crisp and convivial evening, the brethren of Lodge of Hospitality No 5074, along with their distinguished guests, gathered at The Point in St Helens for what proved to be a truly memorable installation ceremony. There was a wonderful atmosphere from the outset, with warmth and fellowship filling the room long before the first gavel fell.
Master of the lodge Kevin O’Connell, and the officers of the lodge processed into the lodge with pride and purpose, and at precisely 17:30hrs the lodge was opened with admirable sharpness. The wardens performed their roles with great confidence, as did the deacons, and the outgoing WM’s voice carried an easy authority that set the tone beautifully for the evening ahead.
Minutes of the last meeting were circulated with no amendments, duly seconded and approved by all members present in the usual manner accustomed to the membership of a lodge. The director of ceremonies, David Rigby then retired from the chamber with the deacons in tow to form a procession of the visiting distinguished brethren.
After a short absence, he returned into the temple dressed in his finest with shoes gleaming like a highly polished mirror which no doubt reflects his honourable character, he then announced the presence of Ezra McGowan, the Provincial Junior Grand Warden and the representative of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, accompanied by David Atkinson, the Mersey Valley Group Chairman, grand officers and acting Provincial grand officers as well as Provincial grand officers, before leading them with the precision of a man who likes things done in a way that is nothing less than perfect.
Robbie English then delivered the Ancient Charge No 1 in a self-assured and fervent way that exuded an effort which portrays many hours of hard work and practice as the only result. The stage was now set for the highlight of the evening, and what a highlight it was. The installing master, Eddie Heffernan, stepped forward and proceeded to deliver an installation ceremony of the very highest quality. Composed, commanding, and clearly in his element, Eddie guided the proceedings with skill and warmth that drew admiration from every corner of the room. His work was a credit to himself, to the lodge, and to the Craft, and the brethren present were in no doubt that they had witnessed something truly special.
Paul Lundy occupied the office of the senior warden for the upcoming ceremony, this fine gentleman with shoes that reflected the light of the dome above him was not only dapper in his appearance, but his ritual was also razor sharp with every syllable he expressed reaching the heavens with great gusto. Allan Haslam, as junior warden, matched him admirably, delivering his role entirely from memory in a near-perfect performance that was a genuine pleasure to witness. Phillip Ryan, acting as inner guard, was as smooth and assured as ever, his voice carrying a quiet authority perfectly suited to guarding those secrets which may only be entrusted to men of good character and pure heart. He looked every inch the part in his regal dark blue attire.
Throughout all of this, Paul Middleton, the master elect, remained a model of calm and composure. Standing tall and brimming with quiet pride, he was guided through the evening by two deacons who were perfectly in sync with one another from start to finish. Paul’s solemn obligation was delivered with great clarity and conviction, a powerful moment that will long be remembered by those fortunate enough to be present.
The secretary delivered the charge and regulations to the master elect with great care and skill, and the salutations that followed were equally well received. The presentation of the working tools was a collective highlight; every brother tasked with a delivery rose to the occasion, and the standard was nothing short of impressive. The warrant of the lodge and its by-laws were then presented to the new WM, bringing the installation itself to a proud and fitting conclusion.
Paul Middleton then appointed his officers for the forthcoming year, his voice carrying around the temple with easy confidence. The addresses that followed were delivered with real quality: Paul Lundy addressed the new senior warden with the polish you would expect of a man of his experience; Alan Haslam’s address to the junior warden was equally impressive. David Rigby addressed the stewards in fine style, and Philip Ryan delivered both the address to the inner guard and the address to the new WM with great warmth and enthusiasm.
Ezra McGowan, in his address to the brethren of the lodge, spoke warmly and generously about all those who had taken part, praise that was richly deserved. He also had the pleasure of receiving a cheque for £500 on behalf of Portico Rugby Club in Thatto Heath, a wonderful gesture that speaks to the charitable heart of this lodge.
After communications were circulated and greetings exchanged, the visitors retired, and the lodge was closed in peace and harmony at 20:15hrs by WM Paul Middleton and his newly appointed team and closed every bit as smartly as it had been opened.
The festive board that followed was everything a festive board should be, full of toasts, laughter, singing, and above all, that most treasured of Masonic commodities: true camaraderie. A wonderful evening, and a fine start to what promises to be a memorable year for Lodge of Hospitality.