The brethren of Lune Lodge No 4724 were honoured to receive Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews as principal guest at their first meeting of the new season, which was the initiation of Elliott Taylor, who was to become a ‘Lewis’, the son of a Freemason, namely lodge senior warden Paul Taylor. This designation emphasises the duty of the son to support the ‘sinking powers’ and aid the ‘failing strength’ of his father, ensuring the well-being and comfort of the family.
Mark Matthews was accompanied by Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Barry Fitzgerald and grand officers Neil McGill, Paul Broadley and Daniel Crossley. Acting Provincial grand officers attending were: Provincial Senior Grand Warden Alan Ledger; Provincial Junior Grand Warden Paul Wharton; Provincial Grand Sword Bearer Jimmy Nisbet; Provincial Grand Charity Steward Andy McClements, Provincial Senior Grand Deacon Ian Jolly; and Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies Ian Woods, with Assistant to the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Bryan Cambidge. The Lancaster and District Group was represented by chairman Chris Larder.
Immediately prior to the opening of the lodge, junior deacon Peter Baker was taken ill and his position was taken by Daniel Crossley with Neil McGill occupying the junior warden chair. The lodge was host to nine visiting brethren from Kilwinning Lodge No 0 in Dumfries and Galloway, who made an impressive entrance led by a piper.
The lodge was opened by WM Steve McClintock who conducted the lodge business and confirmed that the dispensation certificate had been received. The ballot for Elliott Taylor proved favourable and the ceremony of initiation was commenced.
Elliott answered the questions with candour and was guided round the lodge by junior deacon Daniel Crossley. On the candidate being placed in the north-east corner, Frank Heath conducted the next part of the ceremony. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of Elliott’s entered apprentice apron by proud father Paul Taylor. Elliott was then invited to retire from the lodge to restore himself to his personal comforts and on his return, the charge after initiation was expertly presented by Paul Taylor.
Mark Matthews addressed the brethren and guests of Lune Lodge and brought his greetings. Also congratulating the WM and all those who had taken part in the ceremony.
A total of 46 brethren dined at the festive board. The toast to the candidate was proposed by Elliott’s father Paul. The raffle raised £392.
