Strange times at Wilbraham No 523 Proclamation 14th April 2022 |
| Wilbraham Lodge No 523 was honoured by the presence of V W Bro Derek Horrocks PGJO, representing the RW PGM, at their proclamation ceremony on 14th April. W Bro Ian Rowan continued in office after having been installed at a special meeting in October 2021 following the resumption of masonic activity caused by the Covid-19 lockdown. |
| The evening started with a convivial gathering in the bar, with brethren enjoying renewed friendship and drink or two as desired. Ian was very pleased to welcome Derek who was accompanied by V W Bro Eric Hughes PGJO, W Bro Wilf Spencer PGStdB and Bro Geoff Roberts, WM Coronation Lodge 0563. Such was the quality of the camaraderie that all brethren attended the lodge room early (Yes!!! – early) eager to enjoy the business of the night and resume to a festive board. Whilst the DC, W Bro Brian Boothroyd, was surprised to have everybody seated 5 minutes early, he rightfully stuck to the schedule and the meeting began on time. Two “Strange Times” – all seated early and the commencement of proceedings on time!!!! |
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Eric Hughes, Anthony J Tallon, Ian Rowan, Derek Horrocks, BrianBoothroyd |
| Once under the direction of Brian, the meeting was conducted with flawless enthusiasm and delivery. Salutations were given as protocol dictated, the proclamation was made by the DC with great sincerity, officers appointed for the year and the brethren addressed by Derek. A collection for charity was made. |
| Unusually for Wilbraham no cheque was presented to Derek for charitable giving. However, the lodge has pledged GBP300 to the group charity event to be held on Saturday 7th May with all proceedings going to support aid to those suffering due to the war in Ukraine. |
| Communications were minimal but a reminder of the Provincial Meeting to be held on 5th May in Blackpool was given. Apologies were read out, many due to health issues. The lodge was closed and then we hit “Strange Times” number 3. The festive board was not booked for another hour!!!! |
| The writer accepts full responsibility for this and sheepishly apologised to all. The caterers reacted with great dexterity and a meal of Pate, Fish and Chips and Pavlova with fresh fruit was produced 30 minutes before schedule. The quality of the festive board completely overshadowed the wait and the writer seems to have been forgiven. Thankfully. |
| The writer learnt a valuable lesson this evening – bin the Casio and buy a Rolex!. |
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| Another milestone completed in the life of Wilbraham Lodge. Ian is now looking forward to an advancement ceremony in the coming months, with the full support of an enthusiastic team, picked for their abilities and commitment to Mark Masonry. |
| Words and pictures by Steve McNee |
