In astrology, Saturnian describes the influence of the planet Saturn, symbolising structure, discipline, responsibility and hard work. Never was this description more visible than during the 2026 installation ceremony of Saturnian Chapter No 7563.
On a chilly winter January evening, 30 companions witnessed a truly magnificent ceremony of installation in the company of principal guest Steven Jelly. Following the usual business of the chapter, chapter stalwart and director of ceremonies Norman Thomas retired from the convocation to meet the companions outside the door of the chapter that were forming the procession.
Acting Provincial grand officers in attendance were; Provincial Grand Scribe Nehemiah and visiting officer for Saturnian Chapter John Topping, Deputy Provincial Grand Sword Bearer John Pitches, Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies Tony Blundell and North Fylde Group Vice Chairman Tony Farrar. Principal guest, Steven Jelly, was welcomed by the three principals and occupied his seat in the chapter.
A superb ceremony of installation was enjoyed by all which saw Steve Willingham occupy the first principal’s chair for the fourth time, supported by Keith Carter as second principal and Scott Coxey as third principal. Shaun Haynes as the immediate past first principal was in fine form demonstrating true Saturnian Chapter qualities as he led the chapter through the ritual. The robe addresses were very ably delivered by Shaun Haynes with the scarlet robe address, Norman Thomas, the purple robe address and Steve Willingham with the blue robe address.
Then followed the investing of officers which included a recent joining member David Jenkinson being delighted to be invited to occupy the office of scribe Nehemiah for the next 12 months. Principal guest Steven Jelly delivered the address to the companions of the chapter in fine form.
Immediately following the announcement of the conclusion of the installation ceremony, Steven Jelly brought the congratulations and good wishes of Grand Superintendent, Mark Matthews. First principal Steve Willingham presented Steven Jelly with an envelope containing details of the seven charities that have been supported over the previous year. Steven read out the details and amounts which collectively came to £1,270 and he thanked the chapter for their generosity. It was pleasing for everyone to hear a name proposed and seconded of another joining member, who will be balloted for at the next meeting.
The festive board was a delightful event with a superb three course meal of pate, roast pork tenderloin and sticky toffee pudding. Following the wine takings, the toasts were expertly managed by Norman Thomas, aided by the newly appointed assistant director of ceremonies Shaun Haynes. In his response to toast number three, Steven Jelly congratulated all concerned with the wonderful ceremony and thanked a number of key individuals who helped manage the event. Steven spoke of the membership challenge and wished the chapter well as it moves forwards onwards and upwards. He rounded off his response with some great stand-up humour.
Shaun Haynes was very pleased to be able to propose a toast to the health of the three principals and gave a very upbeat account of how the chapter is going from strength to strength with two joining members and a potential exaltee in the pipeline. He praised the work of visiting officer John Topping who has worked closely with officers to help build up the profile of Saturnian Chapter across the Fylde coast. Steve Willingham responded in great form, assuring everyone that he is looking forward to his fourth and final time as first principal of Saturnian chapter.
A ‘Chorley raffle’ undertaken by Shaun Haynes raised the impressive sum of £183 for Masonic and non-Masonic charities. Prior to the janitor’s toast that was perfectly delivered by chapter janitor Gordon Ivett, the first principal Steve Willingham presented a display of beautiful flowers to Steven for his good lady Maureen as a mark of the chapter’s thanks for attending as principal guest.
