Furness RAM Elevation
 
The latest meeting of Furness RAM No 375 at Ulverston Masonic Hall witnessed some conflicting emotions.
After opening the lodge the first duty of Worshipful Commander Phil Burrow was to deliver a eulogy for Peter Hampson who was recently called into higher service. Peter had been the scribe of the lodge for many years and indeed could be viewed as the engine that made it tick over. A popular and enthusiastic member of several degrees he will be sadly missed.
Pictured is Peter Hampson R.I.P.
 
Paul Rose MBE has taken on the scribe’s role and has a lot to live up to as he follows in Peter’s foot-steps, but I am sure he’ll stamp his own personality on this vital role.
Phil Burrow and John Broadhurst
On a happier note, it was a delight to see John Broadhurst at the meeting. Health issues had meant that John could not attend the installation meeting and install Phil as his successor. Although he is still not “match fit” John was able to take his rightful seat at the left of the Worshipful Commander after being invested as Immediate Past Commander. It was good to have him back on board.
Kieron Mullan, Paul Rose, Alan Jones, Phil Burrow, Graham Benson and Les Preston
The main event of the evening was the elevation of Graham Benson who is the current WM of Furness Mark Lodge No 36. As I had proposed Graham for membership Phil very graciously allowed me to undertake the ceremony.
 
The signs were explained by Kieron Mullan, who was Graham’s seconder, whilst lodge stalwart Alan Jones presented the working tools of the degree. Both were a delight to listen to.
 
Senior deacon Harry Kilgour discharged his duties well, making sure that the candidate was in the right place at the right time. He was ably assisted by junior deacon Peter Clafton.
Bill Glassey, Harry Kilgour, Graham Benson, Peter Clafton and Ian Cottam
 
For those of you who are not yet members of the Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariners I should point out that the senior warden has quite a bit of work to do which includes an explanation of the steps of the degree. Ian Cottam conducted himself in this role with distinction.
 
Lodge director of ceremonies Les Preston seemed very pleased with the work of his charges.
 
Following the meeting a simple but tasty supper of meat and potato pie with peas was enjoyed. Russ Greenhow was called into action as the acting barman to ensure no one went thirsty.
Brian Ogden, Russ Greenhow and Nigel Higginson
There was only one visitor on the evening in the person of Brian Ogden. A member of Edmund Taylor RAM Lodge, Brian has moved back to his roots in nearby Lindale and has promised to be a frequent visitor.
 
I am sure Brian, like all in attendance, left for home having enjoyed a very pleasant evening of RAM masonry and good company.
 
Story and Photos courtesy of Dave Sear