The initiation of a son into Freemasonry is a special source of pride and celebration. The mixed feelings that a father has on these occasions can be quite emotional. Seeing your son made ready to be made a Mason along with the pride of seeing him follow family footsteps is a potent blend.
So, imagine the charged atmosphere when in one meeting not one but two Masons welcome their sons into Freemasonry. A rare but exhilarating occasion. That was what happened at Lodge of Peace and Unity No 314 as master of the lodge, Phil Gardner, and lodge secretary, Ian Douglass welcomed their sons, Chris Gardner and Joe Douglass, into their lodge in a unique double initiation ceremony.
The evening was made all the more special with the presence of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews. He and his Provincial team lent a magnificent gravitas to a fabulous evening. There was also an excellent attendance from the Preston Group to support the evening led by group chairman, John Rimmer.
Phil led the initiations as rightful master of the lodge. One can only imagine the butterflies in his stomach, with Ian also taking a very active role in proceedings acting as one of the junior deacons guiding his son Joe through the ceremony. Stuart Simpson, a close friend of the Douglass family, acted as the other junior deacon guiding Chris on the night. Both candidates acquitted themselves in exemplary fashion. Their dads were probably the more nervous.
The deacons on the night had a bit more work to do. Stuart presented the first degree working tools to Chris and Joe. Then Ian had the honour of delivering the Charge after Initiation in a wonderful manner. How he must have been bursting with pride.
After a fine ceremony, the lodge was closed in due form and all retired for an excellent festive board. Not many new members can count the welcoming words of a Provincial Grand Master which made the evening so special for them. Ian and Phil took turns in proposing toasts to the new made brothers, who both gave splendid responses.
Joe Douglass is a Master Mariner and First Officer with Carnival Cruises. One can only speculate as to which companion order he will be destined for. Chris Gardner practices as a Chartered Accountant in Morecambe. The Lodge Treasurer was looking on with hope and expectation.
