Technical Lodge No 5666Wow, Brethren! What a Third Degree ceremony! I was worried about getting the opening and closing of the Lodge right, but the true stars of the night were you… the Officers and ritualists who made everything flow flawlessly. I won’t single anyone out, as that wouldn’t be fair to the rest of you. Suffice to say, every one of you delivered a first-class ritual.
From the moment we opened the Lodge at 6:30pm in due and ancient form, the tone was set for something truly special. Every Officer performed their duties with care and precision, and it was clear to me we were in for a memorable evening. The double ballot for our next two candidates was a real high point early on, both were unanimously approved, and the warmth of welcome from the Brethren was plain to see.
I asked all Entered Apprentice’s to retire from the Lodge as we then raised to the Second Degree, and Brother Ken Wright was invitedto express his intention to advance. He gave a thoughtful and sincere response and answered the necessary questions. After retiring from the Lodge to prepare himself, the Lodge was raised to the third degree. Brother Wright was readmitted and conducted around the Lodge with the dignity such an occasion deserves. I was particularly moved by the moment Worshipful Brother Daniel Laughton, Ken’s son-in-law, delivered the Obligation. It was a beautiful merging of Masonic tradition and family connection, one of those moments that remind us what Freemasonry is really about.
Worshipful Brother Paul Hillary delivered the Retrospect with great poise, commanding the attention of all present. The investiture of the Master Masons apron by Brother Adam Tunnicliffe, the Historical Oration by Worshipful Brother Eddie Wildman, the Signs, Tokens and Grips by Brother Nigel Goldthorpe, and the Working Tools explained by Worshipful Brother Mark Cusack, all delivered to the highest standard. The Ancient Charge was given by our Chaplain, Brother Bill Turner-Bone, with just the right tone of reverence, and we concluded the ceremony by introducing Brother Wright to the Holy Royal Arch, with an insightful explanation followed by a well-executed exchange of questions and answers between the Wardens.
After the Lodge was returned to the First Degree, and all were re-admitted, we received warm greetings from our visitors. The Senior Warden then offered greetings on behalf of the Officers and Brethren of the Technical Lodge. The evening concluded with a joyful Festive Board, toasts to the King and to our Grand Master.
Worshipful Brothers Turner and Chapman led the Brethren in the traditional parting song, Happy to Meet Again.
Brethren, it was a night of symbolism, celebration, and brotherhood. I’m truly honoured to have presided over such an unforgettable occasion.
- Anthony James (WM)