It is a long-held tradition for the members of Prospect Lodge No 7880 to celebrate Christmas at their December meeting and 2021, their first Christmas following the return after lockdown, they were determined to keep the tradition alive.
During their lodge meeting the director of ceremonies Steve Williams presented a paper which discussed whether Father Christmas was a Freemason. He told the members that Father Christmas was a worthy gentleman who wears a very distinctive costume/suit as a badge of his activities; who provides the opportunity for friends and visitors to meet in fellowship and who is surrounded by secrecy and some mystery but dispenses goodwill and the charity of gifts all over the world (whilst avoiding ostentatious public display while doing so) and he’s there doing it year after year!
He offered many more convincing proofs and finished by saying that he felt that he could safely say that Father Christmas is a Freemason. Not only does he show so many of the signs and tokens of being one but he also brings us a message that we, as Freemasons, can heed for the whole year – peace on earth and good will towards men!
The members retired to the festive board to share a full Christmas turkey dinner accompanied by Christmas music and crackers. Before the meal started, Steve announced that Dave Penkar, an entered apprentice, had a presentation to make. No one knew what was to happen next – only Dave and Steve!
Dave retired to the kitchen and returned with a Christmas cake made by his wife Stephanie – not any old Christmas cake but one decorated with the square and compasses, the name of the lodge and a Christmas greeting! It was to be shared amongst the lodge members and guests. Once Prospect Lodge’s master Terry Cunningham had regained his composure after the shock of the surprise, he thanked Dave profusely for the wonderful gift to the lodge which was served with the mince pies and coffee.
Prospect Lodge may be a small lodge with a small membership but they certainly know how to enjoy each other’s company and their time both in the lodge and after at the festive board.