Those brethren who have been through the chair as master of their lodge know that it’s just as daunting going into the chair for the first time, as it is coming out and installing a successor in your place. Installing master at Townley Parker Lodge No 1032 Andrew Howarth grabbed the challenge by both horns and it was clear that he had put in a lot of effort to learn the ceremony from start to finish, including the perambulations, and he did a fantastic job with a little help from his lodge.
In front of 22 members and visitors, experienced Freemason James Leigh was installed into the chair of King Solomon and it was great to see a lodge with a happy balance of new and experienced members in offices and taking part. The working tools were delivered by Bob Keen, Simon Dalley and Richard Higson, who all did a fantastic job presenting the tools in open lodge.
Following the investiture of each lodge office, the addresses to the WM and wardens were given by Simon Dalley and Richard Higson, who, as like the working tools, delivered the addresses with skill and understanding.
The address to the brethren of the lodge was expertly presented by John Robson, who was the principal guest and representative of the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews. John was accompanied by Colin Preston, Chorley and Leyland Group Treasurer. John passed on the greeting and best wishes form Mark and congratulated the lodge brethren on a splendid installation and looked forward to spending time with everyone at the festive board.
Just before John sat down to end the installation ceremony, newly installed master James Leigh presented John with a cheque from the lodge that was gratefully received. A total of £1,200 was donated to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, Chorley Masonic Hall, Chorley Safe Space and Chorley Sea Cadets.
As the Townley Parker Lodge installation meeting ended, members made their way downstairs for an enjoyable festive board with £155 being raised from the raffle. A great evening was had by all and Townley Parker Lodge look to a bright future with two new masters coming up over the next two years.
