It was a bumper turn out for this years installation as members from the Gloucestershire Light Blues Club “Prorsum Semper” turned up in force to see their vice chairman take the chair of the lodge for the first time.
There was also a sizeable contingent from St Nicholas Lodge no 4561 in the Province of Bristol, to whom Andy has become a regular guest through friends in his other hobby Scouting.
In total the lodge had over 38 visitors to help celebrate the occasion.
The evening was presided over by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master W Bro Mark Steventon-Smith making it his second visit in as many months, while the installation was expertly carried out by W Bro Shaun Finn who steps down after 2 years at the helm, and he was abley supported by other lodge members.
The officers for the year ahead were invested by the new Worshipful Master and it was great to see some new members take office for the first time.
There was additional good news as 2 members who left during COVID were proposed as re-joining members, alongside a new candidate for September.
Everyone enjoyed a delicious four course meal at the festive board, during which the Immediate Past Masters tenure was celebrated too. During his toast to the IPM, Andy reminded Shaun that 8 years prior he guided him through his initiation and tonight did the same, meaning both times Andy has received Masonic Fire in his own right Shaun has been a key part of the evening.
The alms raised over £270 and the raffle an even more amazing £325, which will donated to Andy and his wife Clare’s charity for the year Alive, it was mentioned that several other social and fundraising events are planned leading to a ladies night next March.
Congratulations to W Bro Knight, was great to see your kids getting involved by helping decorate the flower stands!
The lodge is looking forward to a great year with you as master.
Staple Hill Lodge 6043 