The companions and visitors of Grassendale Chapter No 4808 were looking forward to their convocation, the exciting news of a new companion with the completion of an exaltation ceremony. Philip Lyon had a special reason to look forward to this event as it was his brother Christopher who was to be exalted.
The chapter was opened in the usual manner by the three principals, first principal Stephen Cornwell, second principal Fred Hulse and third principal Gary Devlin. Once the initial business of the chapter had been conducted, Stephen asked John Leisk to occupy the first principal’s chair for the exaltation ceremony. Robert James was asked to retire and entrust the candidate
The chapter took notice when scribe Nehemiah Kevin Birchall announced that the exaltation ceremony was to begin. The companions and visitors, and most of all, the candidate Christopher Lyon, were treated to an exemplary exaltation ceremony which was sincere and delivered well. Particular mention must go to principal sojourner David Bartram and John Leisk who were superb in the delivery of ritual.
With the business of the chapter concluded, the companions retired to the festive board to offer further congratulations to their new companion Christopher. At the festive board third principal Gary Devlin, Christopher’s proposer, rose to propose a toast to Christopher and stated, on behalf of the chapter, how delighted he was that Christopher had joined such a fine and distinguished chapter.
In response, Christopher thanked all present for their kind words and expressed how much he was looking forward to becoming an active member of the chapter and enjoying their companionship for many years to come.
The warmth and friendliness of the companions shone through once again for Grassendale Chapter and with further exaltations in the pipeline, a long and bright future promises to continue.
Article and photographs by Doug Lace.