Despite the rain, the members of St Paul’s Lodge No 5459 gathered at Widnes Masonic Hall, determined to enjoy a wonderful initiation ceremony and warmly welcome their soon-to-be brother, John Gregory Smith. John’s big night had finally arrived. Although he felt a bit nervous, he was looking forward to the ceremony and finally joining Freemasonry.
The lodge was opened promptly by WM Chris Farley and after completing the necessary business, lodge secretary Les Williams announced that the candidate, Mr John Gregory Smith, had paid his dues and signed the declaration book. Before proceeding with John’s initiation, Chris asked Paul Hudson if he would assist the lodge by occupying the Chair of King Solomon for the next part of the ceremony. Paul was more than happy to oblige.
The anticipated knocks were given by Tyler Dave Berrington to signify that the candidate was properly prepared. Sri Tangirala, who had been asked at the last minute to take on the role of inner guard, successfully fulfilled his first duty in the lodge and he did an excellent job. Sri reported that the candidate had been properly prepared and was ready to proceed. Junior warden Tony Hamilton then reported to Paul Hudson and instructed Sri Tangirala to admit the candidate.
The moment had arrived for John to make his entrance. He was placed into the care of junior deacon Dean Marsh, who performed his duties magnificently. Assisted by senior deacon Stephen Madden Buchanan, Dean guided John around the temple. It was clear to everyone that John was a bit nervous; however, there was no need for concern, as Dean took complete control of the situation.
John was presented to Paul, who conducted the initiation ceremony with exceptional skill and precision, consistently leading the lodge officers by example. After being invested with the distinguishing badge of a Mason by Senior Warden James Long, John was given a detailed explanation of the working tools of an entered apprentice Freemason by Dean, who delivered the working tools flawlessly.
John was then allowed to retire to restore himself to his personal comforts and upon his return, the charge after initiation was presented by James Long, who delivered it impeccably to the acclaim of everyone present. This marked the completion of John’s initiation. After re-taking his rightful place in the Chair of King Solomon, Chris congratulated John on taking his first regular step in Freemasonry, expressing hope that he would enjoy many happy years in St Paul’s Lodge.
The festive board was a lively event. The lodge had performed a wonderful ceremony in the temple and the members were eager to enjoy the evening. WM Chris was delighted to share wine with Paul, who had greatly assisted him with John’s initiation. Chris then invited everyone to raise their glasses and offer a hearty toast to the health of our newly made brother, John Gregory Smith.
John responded enthusiastically to the toast to his health and expressed his eagerness to spend many happy years in Freemasonry and he thanked the lodge members and visitors for making the evening one he would remember for years to come.
Mersey Valley Group Mentor Ian Edge conveyed the greetings of group chairman David Atkinson and presented John with his welcome pack, expressing the hope that, as a member of this esteemed lodge, John would enjoy many happy years, forge lasting friendships and become a valuable asset to St Paul’s Lodge and Freemasonry in general.
