A Masonic initiation ceremony is a time-honoured tradition that is both solemn and awe-inspiring. It is a symbolic journey that takes the candidate on a path of self-discovery and enlightenment, ultimately leading to a greater understanding of the values and principles of Freemasonry.
WM Ryan Modlin and his team at Baines Lodge No 7844 delivered a ceremony for their new member Ross Kelly with precision, dignity and reverence for the traditions of the lodge that left him with a profound sense of the importance of Masonic values and ideals. Having been attending many of the Baines Lodge social events since before the COVID-19 lockdown, Ross and his fiancée had already become well acquainted with several of the members, their families and the Baines Lodge way of practising Freemasonry, so there was no doubt in anybody’s mind, least of all Ross’ that he was ready to take that next step in becoming a Freemason in Baines Lodge.
During a word-perfect ceremony, Ross was guided though his initiation by Peter Jackson, the junior deacon, with a calm confidence and relaxed delivery, and Peter was ably supported by John Lee who stepped-in as senior deacon for the evening.
Ade May presented three working tools associated with stonemasons explaining their traditional use and how they can also be used to teach moral lessons. Ian Tyrell, a friend of Ross’ through the scouting movement, then explained some of the history of Freemasonry and the essential characteristics that make a Freemason.
The preparation of the candidate is an essential aspect of the initiation and the explanation of the process was expertly presented by Dennis Laird, a visitor from Piel Castle Lodge No 6099, who had battled snowy conditions to travel from Barrow-in-Furness. The ‘Preparation of the Candidate’ is a piece traditionally given at Baines Lodge initiations, but the version provided by Dennis was very different, yet no less enlightening to all present.
Following the formal part of the meeting the members and guests retired to The Blue Room where Masonic Event Catering provided a fine three course meal of chicken goujons and sweet chilli sauce, blade of beef in peppercorn sauce and finished off with individual cheese boards, biscuits and chutney.
Ian Tyrell proposed a toast after dinner to Ross for which everybody stood in honour of the newest member of Baines Lodge, following which Ross gave an assured and confidence response it what will surely be the first of many speeches.
Written by Baines Masons.