Hamer Chapter No 1393, which received its charter in 1876, has just completed its annual installation ceremony at Liverpool Masonic Hall. The chapter was opened by Mike Southern, who first dealt with standard business prior to welcoming the principal guest, Kevin Poynton, directly representing the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews.
On entering the chapter, Kevin was accompanied by the Liverpool Group Secretary Neil Francis and both were warmly welcomed. With all formalities completed the three principals got on with the task in hand, the ceremony of installation.
The chapter director of ceremonies, Arran Banks took control and presented Ray Stones as third principal elect, sadly due to personal circumstance Gordon Heron, the second principal elect, was unable to attend, Malcolm Warren presented next as first principal elect. For the duration of the ceremony both Syd Ford and Dave Lovell assisted by occupying the various chairs when needed.
Malcolm Warren was installed in fine style by Mike Southern, a not too unfamiliar role for Malcolm, having been previously installed as first principal of Hamer Chapter in 1997 and again in 2006. The charter of the chapter, book of regulations and byelaws were transferred, and the appointment and investment of officers ensued.
On completion of the formalities Kevin Poynton stood to convey the congratulations and good wishes of the Grand Superintendent Mark Matthews. He also thanked the grand and Provincial grand officers for their support throughout the evening, expressing admiration for the way that Arran Banks had performed his duties throughout.
Malcolm then presented Kevin with a cheque on behalf of the chapter, in favour of the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity for £150. Kevin thanked the chapter companions for their generous donation. Kevin next had the amicable duty of presenting and explaining the Royal Arch certificate to Ian Muir with regard to his recent exaltation. Shortly afterwards Kevin and his entourage then retired, after which the chapter was closed and the companions made their way to the banqueting suite.
A very fine meal was enjoyed by all and the customary toasts were proposed. Kevin covered many of the Grand Superintendents subjects, such as charities, membership and new ideas from the recent Royal Arch survey. Kevin made special mention of the happiness within the chapter and took the opportunity to congratulate Michael Southern, not just for his work as the first principal this last year, but also his appointment in Royal Arch and Craft as Provincial Deputy Grand Scribe Ezra and Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary respectively. He also took the time to mention the work of the publicity officers throughout the Province, whose hard work and dedication is often overlooked. Kevin added that there is hardly an installation, celebration, centenary meeting in which they are not present. So, my appreciation is extended to the Liverpool Group Publicity Officer Geoff Cuthill who is here tonight.
The toast to the three principals was proposed and in response Malcolm Warren thanked Michael Southern for an excellent ceremony of installation. He also thanked DC Arran for the way the evening had been organised and most importantly, he thanked the members of the chapter for their continued support. Following a lovely evening the janitor gave the traditional farewell toast.