In an unusual break with tradition, all three principals retained their chairs for the forthcoming year at the installation ceremony of Abbey Chapter No 1225. This was done to enable second principal Gary Gibson to complete his year in the chair of Hindpool Lodge No 1225, before assuming the first principal’s chair of the chapter.
The convocation was opened in due and ancient form by the three principals, director of ceremonies Tony Nevinson asked for permission to retire for a short period of time and upon his return principal guest Gary Rogerson, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, was admitted. Gary was accompanied by an escort of grand officers which included Rowley Saunders and Peter Schofield. Furness and South Lakeland Group Vice Chairman Harry Chatfield, group secretary Tony Jackson and acting Provincial grand officers; Provincial Grand Sojourner Mick Lacey and Provincial Grand Stewards Daniel Crossley and Darren Stainton.
Once the companions of Abbey Chapter had assembled in the north, first principal Stephen Renney thanked them for their hard work, support and advice during the last year, and with a wry smile added that he looked forward to working with them again very soon.
For the purposes of installation, Peter While reoccupied the first principal’s chair and the three principals assumed their elected roles. Then followed a slightly curtailed ceremony of installation, its brevity nevertheless matched by its sincerity, humour and humility. Once back in their rightful chairs, the three principals were addressed by Harry Chatfield.
Stephen went about the business of appointing and investing the officers for the forthcoming year and Gary Rogerson addressed the companions. Shortly afterwards, Gary rose again to bring the greetings of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews and was presented with two cheques, each for £250, for Mind in Furness and West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity. Gary thanked the companions of the chapter for their generous donations.
