Philadelphia Mark No 1646, Installation 31st January 2022
 
And the wind it did blow! Well, what do you really expect at the very end of January, the high winds predicted for Sunday Evening and nights named as storm Malik certainly made itself known across the Mark Province of West Lancashire. But that did not deter the Mark Masons of the Province descending on Preston Masonic Hall on a somewhat quieter afternoon, in readiness for the installation meeting of Philadelphia Mark Lodge.
Asst. Prov. G. M. John Bicknell with Alan Eastham the WM
Philadelphia is the Past Masters Lodge of the Province, and it was good to see many of the members arriving at the hall after the prolonged periods of restrictions which have blighted out Masonic actives in recent years.
Many had attended the RAM meeting of Lodge earlier in the afternoon, and some had taken to opportunity to wander away from the Hall to partake in refreshment between the two meetings.
 
But they were soon sat back in the Lodge room and taking part in the meeting. The guest of honour, John Bicknell, Asst. Prov. Grand Master entered the Lodge escorted by his colleague Assistant Giles Berkley, and a plethora of VW Brethren.
John and Alan joined by Giles
Then it was straight into the main business of the evening. Following the disruption caused by Covid 19, it was decided that the Master Alan Eastham, and the vast majority of the Lodge officers would remain in office. The four replacement officers were invested and all officers present acknowledge their reappointment. It is a point worthy of note that one of the new officers, Steven Thackrah, who is the son of the Secretary Tony Thackrah, was appointed as Assistant Secretary, do I see a plot unfolding here!
All business transacted and there was just time for a quick photo call before we all descended into the ballroom for a delightful meal.
Congratulations to all involved in both meetings for a job well done with a special mention for the Lodge DC Bill Swindlehurst who expertly orchestrated the occasion.
Some of the Many attendess who supported the Lodge
Membership of Philadelphia Mark and RAM is open to Installed Past Masters and Commanders in the Mark and RAM degrees respectivly and all are encourage to join. Details from Tony Thackrah but don't be suprised if you get a reply from Steve!
 
I must mention, that on the way home, the wind was certainly getting up, Storm Corrie was having its say! Lets hope that the damage and destruction is far less than that caused by Malik the previous night and that all arrived home safely.
 
Words and pictures by Mike Beesley PJGD Webmaster