Well, if you’re looking for quality ritual, brotherly love, great food and a fun evening with a song or two, then Leyland St Andrew’s Lodge No 7391 is a fine example. An early 5pm start didn’t stop the 35 lodge members and visitors coming together for the installation of a new master Allan Archer, master elect of Leyland St Andrew’s Lodge.
Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden Chris Taylor was the representative of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, and he was accompanied by acting Provincial grand officers and members of the lodge; Provincial Grand Sword Bearer David Bishop and Provincial Grand Steward Paul Wharton-Hardman. Grand officers attending and also members of Leyland St Andrews lodge were Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master Stewart Seddon and John Wrennall.
Under the care and direction of both directors of ceremonies, David Bishop and assistant director of ceremonies Chris Hughes, the installation ran smoothly with very few prompts once the lodge had been opened and the ceremony begun. A special mention to Paul Wharton-Hardman, who took the chair of King Solomon for the installation ceremony and delivered near perfect ritual to install Allan Archer as master of the lodge in fine style.
The working tools were delivered by a range of new and experienced members of the lodge with Fr Matthew Murray presenting a quality explanation of the third degree tools. Followed by the experienced Stewart Seddon, who presented the second degree tools the long way with perfect execution. New junior fellow craft Andrew Stott completed the working tools by presented the first degree tools in a very respectable manner also.
Following the investitures of the lodge officers the fantastic ritual continued with the addresses to the master, wardens, and brethren. The WM Allan Archer received a fantastic masters address from David Bishop, followed by Stewart Seddon addressing the new wardens in similar style. The address to the brethren of the lodge was given by Chris Taylor, who presented an eloquent speech to remind the lodge members and visitors who we are as Freemasons.
Before the meeting ended, Alan presented a cheque to Chris Taylor on behalf of the lodge. A total of £1,104 was donated to TLC, WLFC, Derian House and Horwich Masonic Hall and it was graciously and thankfully received.
The hard work was over, with many guests praising the lodge members for such a fine installation as they made their way downstairs to dine. Festivities ensued with drinks and fine food served while toasts were made to esteemed brethren and guests.
Chris Taylor stood to greet the brethren and delivered a speech that had the audience laughing and applauding his words. He also shared news from Mark Matthews, while attentively naming each of the other group representatives who were present as well as Jeff Lucas. Listed were group charity steward Dr Michael Kipping, deputy group charity steward Shaun Bilsborough who also gave a presentation to the lodge charity steward in the meeting. Also in attendance was the group publicity officer Kieran Taylor-Bradshaw, group vice chairman David Bishop and group yearbook secretary Paul Wharton-Hardman.
With over £300 raised on the night from the collection and raffle by the 35 brethren attending the evening was completed by a skilfully sung master’s song by Fr Matthew Murray, who utilised his vocal skills as a parish priest to impress the guests.
Following the tyler’s toast, the last word was with the new master who thanked everyone and gave a passionate speech to his brethren and visitors.