Provincial News
- Written by: John Fergusson
On Wednesday 6 April, Bro Colin Labrum became Comp Colin Labrum and completed his journey in Pure Antient Masonry at Piscator Chapter.
It was an excellent ceremony which was led by the Chapter’s Principals who were supported by E Comp Trevor Sherman and Comp Mike Howells as Principal and 1st Assistant Sojourners respectively and who delivered their work in an accomplished manner. The evening was finished off with a superb Festive Board to complete the evening and welcome Comp Labrum into the Royal Arch Masonry.
Comp Colin Labrum is pictured with the Chapter's Principals below (left to right): E Comp Aaron Day, E Comp Bob Green, E Comp Roger Blason and Comp Colin Labrum
- Written by: John Fergusson
On 5 April 2016, Whytewell Chapter in Wellingborough performed a rather unique Exaltation Ceremony on 5th April 2016. Bro Tony Norman, having been initiated into Freemasonry in 1973 finally completed his journey through Pure Antient Masonry on what proved to be a wonderful evening of companionship and celebration of this rather remarkable event.
The Three Principals, E Comp Arthur Ellis, E Comp Ron Ricker and E Comp Robin Porter led an excellent ceremony which saw several officers produce outstanding work. The Principal Sojourner, Comp Ian Richards together with 1st Assistant Sojourner, Comp John Davies led Bro Norman through the ceremony in a most exemplary manner. The signs were then very ably presented by E Comp Robert Gibson. This was followed by the Mystical Lecture, presented with great style and flair, by E Comp John Barber E Comp Jim Boughton and E Comp Stuart Philips. It must be reported that E Comp Jim stepped in, literally at the last minute which resulted in a flawless presentation by all three participants.
A thoroughly entertaining and happy Festive Board followed which was enjoyed by all, and at which the Second Provincial Grand Principal, George Clayton, who was present in a official capacity, formally welcomed Whytewell Chapter’s latest Companion, now Comp Tony Norman, into the Supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch. Could this perhaps be the longest journey yet, from Initiation to Exaltation?
Pictured above (l to r): 2nd Provincial Grand Principal, E Comp George Clayton, E Comp Ron Ricker, E Comp Arthur
Ellis, Comp Tony Norman, E Comp Robin Porter and Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies
E Comp Steve Seward
The Lodge of St George No 5978 has become the first lodge in the Province to receive a charitable enhancement from The Freemasons’ Grand Charity. Money raised during WBro Andy Moore's year as Master has been enhanced and Andy was able to make a total donation of £2,500 to local charity The Lowdown.
The Lowdown offers a free and confidential drop in service for youngsters, six days a week, in Northampton. Youths can get the help and support they may need. These funds will provide over 200 one-to-one counselling sessions for local youths in need or distress. One hour can make a massive difference in a child or young adult’s life; in any one hour session, the Lowdown’s counsellors can positively change and sometimes save the life of a young person who is vulnerable or in crisis.
Speaking about the donation, Andy Moore, from The Lodge of St George, 5978, said
“We are delighted to be able to show our support for The Lowdown. Charitable giving is central to Freemasonry, and the Lodge of St George, along with all Northants and Hunts Freemasons, are especially happy to support organisations that give back to our local community. The Freemasons Grand Charity works on behalf of all Freemasons in England and Wales, donating millions of pounds to worthy causes every year; and we are delighted they have joined with us in supporting The Lowdown.”
Every year The Freemasons Grand Charity donates over £7 million to charitable projects across England and Wales.
- Written by: John Fergusson
On Monday 4 April, Companions of Eleanor Cross Chapter 1764 installed their Three Principals for the ensuing year. E Comp Kevin Corcoran was installed as MEZ, E Comp John Fergusson moved up to Haggai, and E Comp Michael Pepper was duly installed as Joshua. Present in an official capacity was Deputy Grand Superintendent, E Comp Mike Coleman accompanied by Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, E Comp Steve Seward.
All present appreciated the work by all the Principals, the IPZ, E Comp Merrick Bowles installed his successor in very sincere and warm manner. E Comp Trevor Sherman presented the First Principal's Robes and Sceptres in a most commendable way, followed by E Comp Geoff Willis who presented Haggai's Robes and Sceptres and E Comp Ken Briers who presented Joshua's Robes and Sceptres.
E Comp Jeff Lowe presented E Comp Merrick Bowles with his IPZ Jewel in the most dignified and moving manner.
The evening concluded with a wonderful Festive Board.
Above (left to right): IPZ, E Comp Merrick Bowles, E Comp John Fergusson, E Comp Kevin Corcoran, E Comp Michael
Pepper, Deputy Grand Superintendent, E Comp Mike Coleman, Provincial Asst Grand Director of Ceremonies, E Comp
Steve Seward, Provincial Grand Principal Sojourner, E Comp Tony Albrecht & E Comp Geoff Willis.