Loyalty Chapter No 897 held its ceremony of installation at Widnes Masonic Hall. The chapter opened at 6 pm, and after completing the necessary duties, Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Ian Halsall entered the chapter and announced that Chris Butterfield, Deputy Grand Superintendent for the Province of West Lancashire, stands without and demands admission.
Several acting officers accompanied Chris and they were led in by the Provincial Grand Stewards. The Deputy Grand Superintendent was introduced to the three principals and first principal Christopher Maloney offered Chris his sceptre, as was his right. However, Chris declined the offer, stating that he was attending to enjoy a great ceremony and took his seat.
Christopher then called upon John Walkey to give the opening address to the companions, which he did with exactitude and clarity. The Deputy Grand Superintendent expressed his delight at hearing the opening address, as he rarely hears it when he enters the chapter after it is opened.
The ceremony of installation began, but as Peter Whalley was unable to attend due to being unwell, Graham Williams took the chair of third principal and flawlessly installed Gratten Williams as third principal. Christopher then asked Graham if he would assist the chapter by occupying the second principal’s chair, and Graham was pleased to do so.
David Berrington was then presented to the first principal Christopher Maloney who impeccably installed David as his successor as first principal of the chapter. The robe addresses were given in a faultless manner by Christopher Maloney and Graham Williams. In closing, the Valedictory Address was presented by Chris Cleave, who didn’t let the side down with his word-perfect presentation.
On completion of the ceremony, Chris stepped onto the floor and commented on how well the ceremony had gone under the excellent direction of the director of ceremonies John Roughley. He also applauded all those who took part in what was an excellent ceremony of installation.
Before resuming his chair, Chris was presented with several charitable checks totalling £450. Chris thanked the companions of the chapter for their generosity. The festive board that followed was a lively affair with lots of good humour and banter. A raffle was held on behalf of Masonic and non-Masonic charities which raised the princely sum of £180.
