A remarkable three generations of the same family on the floor for a first degree ceremony, which was truly heart-warming to see and a remarkable turnout of brethren came together for a special initiation ceremony held at the Masonic Hall in Southport.
Southport Temple Lodge No 7526 had the distinct pleasure of welcoming its newest member Ken Barton, who is the father of Mark Barton. This occasion was a testament to the enduring legacy of brotherhood and family within the Masonic fraternity.
On this distinguished occasion the lodge was graced by the presence of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, who was accompanied by Assistant Provincial Grand Master Frank Umbers, Past Provincial Grand Master Tony Harrison, Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master Kevin Poynton alongside a galaxy of esteemed grand officers, namely, Bryan Henshaw, Trevor Rimmer, Colin Jenkins, Neil Latham and Mark Barton. They were accompanied by acting Provincial grand officers; David Rigby, Richard Jenkinson, Leslie Gilston, Keith Lindsay and the Southport Group Chairman Phil Stock.
The evening’s proceedings were opened by Mark Ball, WM of Southport Temple Lodge, who then offered the gavel to the Provincial Grand Master, to which on this occasion he politely refused.
During the ceremony, there was a touching moment wherein Mark Barton, the son of the initiate Ken Barton, occupied the master’s chair. Furthermore, his grandson acted as the working junior deacon and gracefully guided his grandfather around the room. Which was an enormous privilege to watch three generations of the Barton family to partake in the ritual.
It was unanimous among those in attendance that this was an exceedingly successful and harmonious evening, both within the lodge room and during the subsequent festive board. And all those present extend sincere gratitude to everyone who warmly welcomed the lodge’s newest member, Ken.