Brethren Neptune Lodge 1264, (which was founded in 1869), held their installation meeting in Liverpool Masonic Hall, Hope Street. The lodge was opened by the WM Ron Bates in the first degree and the initial business of the lodge was delt with.
Steve Walls, the representative of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, accompanied by David Johnson Chairman of the Liverpool Group, were then announced and processed into the temple by the director of ceremonies Dave Campbell. Both Steve and David were warmly greeted by the WM.
Following the customary salutations, which were gratefully acknowledged, the master elect Ron Bates, was proclaimed WM by the lodge director of ceremonies Dave Campbell.
Ron agreed to remain in office for a third consecutive year, by dispensation, to assist the natural progression of the brethren on the lodge ladder. The ceremony was conducted with great dignity and sincerity. The brethren of the lodge are truly grateful to Ron for his unselfishness and devotion to the lodge for continuing in the role so readily.
Upon completion of the proclamation ceremony, Steve Walls rose to bring the congratulations of the Provincial Grand Master to the WM and thanked him for his commitment and dedication to the lodge. He expressed his hope that he has yet another successful, but most of all happy year in office.
The WM was delighted to present Steve several cheques, totalling the magnificent sum of £1,850, to eight various charities. Steve thanked the brethren for their generosity and assured everyone that the donations would be gratefully received and faithfully applied.
Upon the closure of the lodge, the brethren retired to a sumptuous festive board of pea and ham soup, chicken chasseur, sherry trifle and coffee or tea. The quality of the food was excellent and the atmosphere during the meal was lively and convivial.
The lodge has been very successful in recruiting new members in the past year and now has a very healthy progressive ladder. There are three brethren due for raising plus three other brethren waiting to be passed to fellow craft. There are also three other brethren who became master Masons in the past year.
This success has been down to the lodge members becoming focussed on recruiting new members, but not losing sight of the need to bring in the right men. Long may this continue! Their numbers were further increased on the night as Ian McIntosh was welcomed into the lodge as a joining member.