– by Phil Smith
Friday the 25th November saw a special day for me. After 10 years in the craft I finally became the Worshipful Master of my lodge. This was even more speacial as the meeting was just one day shy of being 75 years since it was consecrated.
Being aware of my shortcomings in ritual, I was a little nervous. Those nerves eased somewhat my the brethren of my lodge, my 7 personal guests and a great turnout from the Quarrymen to support me. There were two entire sprigs at the festive board filled with people there, just for me. Along with two more sprigs of my own lodge.
Installation meetings starts early at my lodge, normally 4 pm. With a break at half 5 and then ending at 8. We actually started 15 minutes late and were all quite surprised when we still completed the first half on time. Not only did we catch up, we actually completed the entire ceremony half an hour earlier than usual. This was mostly due to the ritual being on point and little to no prompting being required. My friends in the lodge had done me proud.
It was nice to have my lodges old visiting officer, Mike Parkes, by my side, now in his new role as the Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Dorset. Our own Quarrymen member, Richie Jones being present, acting in his role as Deputy Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies was also great to see.
It was great to see so many Quarrymen to my right when they returned to the lodge. Able to see them close at hand and wishing me well helped keep me calm, now I was in the big chair.
The festive board was spectacular with tomato soup, steak and chips, and syrup sponge pudding to end. The toasts were all well received and a good time was had by all. Special toasts were made to ruling masters, 5 in total, with three being my personal quests and 1 a fellow Quarryman. The Quarrymen were also toasted for their support and friendship.
(above) In our province we do not wear cuts in the temple so we took the opportunity to grab a shot after the festive board, in the dining room. (below) me being toasted after the Masters Song, delivered to me by my Charity Steward, who is also the Senior Deacon – Rob Halfhide. Although I have seen this song performed many times, and in many lodges, it is very strange having a room full of men sing to you. I think I will remember this part of the evening with all the affection I still recall the chain, during my initiation.
There were a few photos taken upstairs, immediatly after the ceremony, which features the Provincial Team, my officers, the ruling masters, my Junior & Senior Warden and, of course, the Quarrymen, resplendant in their usual Masonic Regalia. After all, we are all Masons first and Quarrymen second. (officers photo first below, wardens photo second below)
(above, the provincial team with the wardens and IPM) With a busy year ahead of me, I hope to represent my lodge to the best of my ability, support the craft and charity along with enjoying as much time with my firends in the Quarrymen as my schedule will permit.
If you are a Mason who has been nervous about becoming an officer in your lodge, and progressing through ranks, I can attest that this one evening alone makes it all worthwhile. It also helps keep your lodge healthy for future generations of men to experience the benefits the craft has to offer.
(below, my IPM and proposer. 2nd below, The Quarrymen in full Masonic Regalia, Final – ruling masters present)
