A series of firsts for the PrGM

It is entirely appropriate that for his first installation visit to the newly reformed Liverpool Gladstone Group that the Provincial Grand Master, Peter Hosker should have chosen St George’s Lodge of Harmony No 32.The lodge still meets in what most would regard as one of Liverpool’s premier hotels, The Adelphi.

Known throughout the Province of West Lancashire as Lodge 32, it is one of the oldest and most venerable lodges in the Province, the members of which were delighted and honoured to have Peter as their principal guest.

On being received by the Worshipful Master Christopher Collins, Peter informed the gathering that it was his first visit to the lodge since being made a member of Lodge 32 and that he had been looking forward to this for some time. Peter told the assembly that it was his custom to attend the installation meetings of his wardens during their year of office. Lodge 32 is the home of Ian Sanderson PrJGW, hence his attendance this evening.

Peter was accompanied on this occasion by two APrGM’s, Terry Hudson and Howard Jones. With Bill Culshaw (Liverpool Gladstone Group Chairman), Paul Renton PrSGW and other acting Provincial Officers in attendance. As well as these worthy brethren there was a galaxy of Grand Officers and Past Provincial Grand Officers and present.

A total of 54 lodge members and their guests then witnessed an enlightening ceremony as the Master Elect Matt Stockwell was presented to and then installed by Christopher Collins. The installing master was assisted by a number of the members of the lodge and during the course of the ceremony Christopher invested his successor with Lodge 32’s Hallstone jewel, together with a history of the purpose and meaning of this artefact.

On completion of the ceremony Peter then stood and congratulated the new master on his assuming the chair of Lodge 32, wishing him an enjoyable and healthy year in office. Once all current business was completed the Worshipful Master then suspended the lodge and the brethren were called to refreshment.

There are a small number of lodges in the Province who dine wearing their Masonic regalia and Lodge 32 is one of them. The members and their guests were then treated to the hospitality and entertainment for which this lodge, over the years, has been renowned. At the end of the festive board the lodge was duly called back on and closed and then all departed for home.