Brethren of Quingenti Lodge No 8516, the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge, demonstrated their dedication and commitment by traveling across the Province of West Lancashire to Bryn Masonic Hall in Wigan for the installation of Nick Dalaney as WM.
The importance of the occasion was underscored by the meticulous preparation led by the director of ceremonies, Barry Fitzgerald. Members of the lodge who were participating in the ceremony arrived early to rehearse and refine their roles, ensuring every detail of the proceedings was executed to perfection. This thorough preparation reflected the lodge’s commitment to upholding the traditions and standards of the Provincial Grand Stewards of West Lancashire.
The lodge was formally opened marking the start of what would be a distinguished evening. After attending to the customary lodge business, director of ceremonies Barry Fitzgerald entered the temple and proclaimed that the Provincial Grand Master, Mark Matthews, stood without and demanded admission.
WM Philip Hughes was delighted by the honour of receiving the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, this marked a moment of great significance, as the presence of such a distinguished guest underscored the importance of the occasion and the esteem in which Quingenti Lodge is held within the Province of West Lancashire.
Mark was accompanied by his deputy Frank Umbers, nine grand officers and 17 acting Provincial grand officers. Upon being introduced to Philip, Mark was warmly greeted. In keeping with tradition, Phil extended the lodge gavel to Mark, acknowledging his authority and offering him the opportunity to preside over the proceedings.
Mark graciously declined the offer, expressing his gratitude for the gesture. He explained that, while he would have been honoured to accept, he had attended the evening with the intention of enjoying what he was confident would be an excellent installation ceremony. His response reflected his confidence in the lodge’s preparations, setting a tone of warmth and camaraderie for the evening’s proceedings.
Labour resumed in the second degree, marking the commencement of the installation ceremony. The master elect, Nick Delaney, was presented to the WM Philip Hughes, by the Quingenti Lodge director of ceremonies, Paul Shirley. With dignity and poise, Nick approached the WM and knelt before him, demonstrating his humility and readiness to assume the responsibilities of his new office. He then recited his obligation with confidence and precision, reflecting his dedication and readiness to lead the lodge with honour and integrity.
The installation ceremony proceeded with precision and decorum as Philip conducted the installation of Nick. His polished and flawless execution of the ceremony reflected both his experience and his deep respect for Masonic tradition. Phil personally presented the working tools and delivered the address to the WM with clarity and sincerity, setting the tone for Nick’s year in office.
The ceremony continued with contributions from distinguished Provincial officers. The Provincial Junior Grand Warden, Mike Silver, delivered the address to the Wardens. Following this, the Provincial Senior Grand Warden, Anthony Humphrey, delivered the address to the brethren of the lodge. These addresses were delivered with eloquence and exactitude.
At the conclusion of Nick’s installation, Mark Matthews rose to address the assembled brethren. He warmly congratulated Nick on assuming the chair of King Solomon in such a distinguished and well-respected lodge. His words acknowledged the honour and responsibility of leading the Quingenti Lodge. Mark also took the opportunity to commend Philip Hughes for the exemplary manner in which he had conducted the ceremony. His praise highlighted the dedication, skill and commitment Philip had demonstrated, ensuring that the installation was both memorable and in keeping with the highest traditions of Freemasonry.
Before retaking his seat Nick, on behalf of the brethren of Quingenti Lodge, presented Mark with a cheque for £2,000 to go to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, Mark gratefully accepted what he said was a fantastic amount to give in the cause of charity.
As the evening progressed, the time arrived for Mark Matthews, to retire from the lodge. Skilfully assisted by his Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies David Boyes, the procession was meticulously arranged by Barry Fitzgerald. Barry ensured the formation of the recession, with grand and acting Provincial grand officers assembling in perfect order. Once the procession was ready, he called upon the brethren to stand while the Provincial Grand Master retired from the Lodge.
The festive board was a vibrant and joyous affair, with 107 diners coming together to celebrate the occasion. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie, laughter, and a shared sense of achievement. Brethren enjoyed a sumptuous meal, complemented by excellent companionship, making the evening a fitting conclusion to the memorable Installation ceremony.
The spirit of charity was also a highlight of the evening. A raffle raised an impressive £575 for both Masonic and non-Masonic charities, while the collection held earlier in the temple added £265. Altogether, the remarkable total of £840 was raised, a testament to the generosity of those present.
Quingenti Lodge could rightfully take pride in the success of the evening, not only for the flawless installation ceremony but also for the warmth and unity displayed throughout the event. Reflecting on the day, the newly installed WM Nick Delaney, expressed his admiration for his predecessor, acknowledging that Philip Hughes would indeed be ‘a big act to follow’. The evening concluded with a shared sense of accomplishment and optimism for the year ahead under Nick’s leadership.