The Provincial Grand Lodge of West Lancashire held its first special meeting at the Westhoughton Masonic Hall, attended by over 100 members from light blue clubs across the Province. The day began at 8am with the arrival of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, along with his team of acting Provincial grand officers. Also present, were grand and Provincial grand officers who had come to show their support and provide advice to the many young brethren attending Grand Lodge for the first time.
The Provincial team gathered in the main lodge, where Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Barry Fitzgerald and his deputy, Peter Littlehales, were ready to prepare the team. Their goal was to ensure that all the attending light blue brethren could witness Provincial Grand Lodge at its very best. Once Barry was confident that everyone involved understood their responsibilities, there was just enough time for a cup of tea or coffee and to don their full-dress regalia before the light blue brethren began to fill the hall. As the members arrived and filled the lodge, a buzz of excitement filled the air. The smiling faces and cheerful chatter made it evident that everyone was eager to witness the splendour of the Provincial Grand Lodge.
Once everyone was seated, director of ceremonies, Barry, entered the lodge and requested everyone to stand to welcome the Provincial Grand Master, along with the grand and acting Provincial grand officers. It was clear that Barry had effectively prepared the team; they were perfectly in sync, and all knew exactly what to do. Provincial Grand Lodge, which had previously been called off, resumed labour.
Mark addressed the brethren: “Brethren and companions, welcome to our first-ever Light Blue Club special meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge here at Westhoughton Masonic Hall. This is a history-making occasion, and I’m sure that for many years to come we will all remember being here today.
Over the course of the last three seasons, we have held six Light Blue Club Seminars in various geographical locations across the Province. Many of you have attended and contributed to those Seminars. This Special Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge is designed to build on the success of those Seminars.
Brethren and companions, if you want to ask me any questions about the Province or the United Grand Lodge of England today or on any other occasion when you are with me, please come and speak to me. If you have any suggestions to improve the Province, please make your group chairman aware. He can send any ideas to our Provincial Grand Secretary, Peter Taylor, and I can assure you they will be looked at, and you will be given a response.” Mark’s full address can be read by 
Mark then called upon Nigel Monks, the leader of the Corinthian Light Blues Club, along with members Martin Aldred, Chris Wilson, Chris Upton and Michael Singleton. The Corinthian Club serves the Chorley and Leyland light blues community. ‘Light blues’ refers to Freemasons who have not yet attained Provincial grand rank. The Corinthian Club was established to provide a space for these light blue Masons to meet socially, discuss Masonic issues, and enjoy each other’s company.
The club, named after the classic Greek architectural column design, aims to provide a strong foundation for new and young Masons. Its goals include fostering friendships, creating new social circles and offering learning opportunities for personal development. Additionally, the club will support and promote the positive impact of Freemasonry in the community and its contributions to charitable giving.
The team explored the opportunities for visiting various light blue clubs across the province. They highlighted the importance of networking and establishing a strong support system among all light blue members to enhance their collective efforts. The discussions included the organisation’s history, the challenges it currently faces, and its commitment to community engagement. While honouring their past, they are focused on fostering a brighter future, benefiting not only their members but also the broader context of Freemasonry.
Mark then called upon Alister Sainter, the leader of the Light Blues Group in Southport. Alister inquired about the purpose of having a light blue club. Mark explained that light blue clubs provide a less formal setting for younger Masons to connect with one another. This environment allows them to ask questions, share concerns, and bond with brethren who are experiencing similar situations. Being a member of a light blues club offers numerous benefits, including social gatherings outside of Masonic halls, enjoying a curry and a pint, organising events, and supporting local businesses. Most dining events in Southport begin with a pint at the Windmill pub, which is operated by a local Mason.
The Southport Light Blues are open to more than just light blue members; dark blue members and non-Masons are also welcome. Dark blue members are encouraged to participate and engage with the younger brethren. How often do younger members have the opportunity to sit down with high-ranking Freemasons in a relaxed environment, discuss their concerns, and seek advice? While not intended as a recruiting tool, non-Masons have recognised that Masons are simply regular blokes who enjoy a bit of banter and a pint, just like everyone else, and have gone on to join the fraternity.
Along with Alister were father and son, Darren and Elliot Preece, who came to share their experiences as newer members of the fraternity. Darren joined Freemasonry about three years ago and talked about how much he has been enjoying it. After returning home from meetings, he would discuss what had happened and how he appreciated the company of his new brothers. Elliot listened to his dad’s stories and noticed a positive change in him; Darren was striving to be the best version of himself. Inspired by his father, Elliot decided to join as well, and now, at 18 years of age, he proudly stands beside his father as a new light blue member.
On a final note, the next light blue outing will be at the Liverpool Beer Festival, held in the crypt of Paddies Wigwam, the Roman Catholic Cathedral. All are welcome.
Chris Butterfield, Past Deputy Grand Superintendent, came along to talk about Royal Arch Freemasonry. Where does the Royal Arch originate? How is the Royal Arch linked to the Craft? And why I should join the Royal Arch?
1717 Grand Lodge first mentioned two separate Grand Lodges (Moderns 1717 / Antients 1751). Lodges operating under one of the grand lodges (Moderns) performed Craft ceremonies, only two at that time, entered apprentice and fellow of the Craft. Lodges under the other grand lodge (Ancients) included an additional ceremony, undertaken within their Craft lodge, called the Royal Arch.
The Union of 1813 wanted to bring the two grand lodges together to form ‘United Grand Lodge of England’. After much discussion, they finally agreed that the Royal Arch was an important part of Freemasonry and should remain under UGLE. But couldn’t be part of Craft Freemasonry, but had to be undertaken in a new ceremony within ‘Chapters’, hence the subsequent creation of Supreme Grand Chapter. To appease those who still thought it should be part of the Craft, they agreed the Royal Arch jewel could be worn in Craft lodge, which is still the only jewel permitted to be worn other than past master jewels and festival jewels.
By the solemn Act of Union between the two Grand Lodges of Free-Masons of England in December 1813, it was declared and pronounced that pure Antient Masonry consists of three degrees and no more, those of the entered apprentice, the fellow craft, and the master Mason, including the Supreme Order of Royal Arch.
Every master Mason should aspire to continue their journey from initiation in the Craft to exaltation in the Royal Arch. Royal Arch is an integral part of Pure and Antient Freemasonry. Ask your lodge Royal Arch representative, a friend who is already in the Royal Arch, your Group Royal Arch Lead or speak to anyone wearing a Royal Arch jewel, they will all be pleased to help you. ‘The indissoluble link between Craft Freemasonry and the Royal Arch’.
After Chris had finished his talk, Mark thanked everyone for attending the Provincial Grand Lodge, and a special thank you went to those who had presented the talks on light blue Freemasonry and the Royal Arch. With that, Mark invited everyone to join him at the festive board. Director of Ceremonies Barry Fitzgerald stood and called upon his deputy, Peter, to form the recession. The recession consisted of;- Mark Matthews Provincial Grand Master, Jonathan Heaton AProvGM, John Reynolds ProvSGW, Ezra McGowan ProvJGW, Rev Can. John Hall ProvGChap, Mick Southern ProvDepGSec as ProvGSec, Barry Fitzgerald ProvGDC, Gordon Maclellan ProvGSwdB, Peter Littlehales ProvDepGDC, Alan Riley ProvGAlm, Neil Ward ProvGMO, Paul Brunskill ProvGCO, Kevin Rigg ProvSGD, Keith Bennett PProvSGD as ProvJGD, Andrew Perry ProvGStB, Paul Morgan ProvGStB, Stephen Derringer ProvGOrg, Adam Simpson ProvGPurs, Neil Higgins ProvGTyler, Nigel Monks ProvGStwd, Wayne Haslam ProvGStw. Other grand officers attending; David Barr Deputy Grand Superintendent, Stewart Cranage PAGDC, Chris Butterfield PJGD and David Bishop PProvGSwdB, Host Group Chairman.
Before dining, all the members gathered at the bar to enjoy drinks with both old and new friends. The light blue members seized the opportunity to mingle with the grand and Provincial grand officers. They also took Mark up on his offer to ask any questions or share any concerns they might have.
The room was packed, and it was wonderful to see so many younger members laughing and joking with the older members. Mark mentioned that he felt a thrill of excitement when the new members entered the lodge room. That excitement continued in the dining room, where everyone expressed their joy at being part of what should be the first of many special events. As the brethren took their seats to dine, every table was a mixture of dark and light blue brethren. They do say that if a room is noisy, everyone is having a good time. Well, this was a noisy room!
After the toast to the grand officers, Jonathan Heaton spoke on behalf of all the grand officers. He expressed gratitude to Mark for his hard work in advancing the Province of West Lancashire. Today served as a testament to Mark’s unwavering support for the light blue brethren and the young companions as they take their next step in their Masonic journey.
Mark thanked Jonathan for his kind words and expressed his delight that the day had been a tremendous success. He also appreciated the light blues for their strong turnout in support of this very special occasion, hoping that similar events would be repeated throughout the Province. Mark went on to say that this event would not have happened without the hard work of Neil Ward, Mick Southern, Mark Humphrey and Peter Littlehales, who put it all together and made it happen. Mark asked them to stand and said I think these men deserve a tremendous round of applause.
Mark discussed this year’s Provincial Grand Lodge meeting, which was attended by over 1,200 Masons and was a great success. He plans to replicate the event next year and hopes to increase attendance to 1,400 after the positive outcome of today’s gathering. There’s no reason why that number can’t be achieved.
The Provincial Senior Grand Warden, John Reynolds, was invited to toast the health of the light blue brethren. He praised the Light Blues Clubs for their incredible support and the excellent work they are doing in their lodges and local communities. John highlighted their efforts in promoting Freemasonry in such a positive way and reminded everyone that the light blues are the lifeblood of this great organisation.
Jonny Edwards, a young member of Hardshaw Lodge No 8722, expressed how enjoyable the day had been. He thanked the experienced brethren, noting that while younger members are essential to Freemasonry, they greatly rely on the support and guidance of the older members. Jonny mentioned that in his lodge, all the officers are younger members, but their success at practice sessions would be extremely difficult without the help from the more experienced brethren. He also shared that when asked about Freemasonry, he highlights the enjoyment it brings, such as participating in social events like ladies’ evenings, Christmas parties, and simply cherishing one another’s company. In other words, we do it because it’s fun. Jonny resumed his seat to rousing applause.
The day had drawn to a close, and Barry called upon Neil Higgins, Provincial Grand Tyler for the final toast. Barry asked that, after the final toast if all would remain standing while the Provincial Grand Master retired.
