Provincial News and Events for 2023
The news and events will appear in date order with the latest at the top.
The news and events will appear in date order with the latest at the top.
Aurelius Lodge No.814 Christmas White Table
Aurelius Lodge No.814 held its first ever Christmas white table where wives, partners and craft men were invited. It was a highly a great evening with plenty of merriment and carol singing. The raffle raised over £200 with the money being split between two local charities:
Leos rides is local to Clacton and they collect and recycle bikes of all sizes and donate them back to kids and adults of all ages.
They also adapt bikes for disabled people.
Leos rides is local to Clacton and they collect and recycle bikes of all sizes and donate them back to kids and adults of all ages.
They also adapt bikes for disabled people.
The other Charity is "Sailship. Les Morgan and his partner Kathy both do voluntary work for the charity and it has been supported by local Lodges and the Province.
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Posted 20/12/23
Constantine Lodge of Mark Masters
Tuesday 21st November at the meeting of our oldest Mark Lodge, Constantine No 145, witnessed a very enjoyable meeting with the Advancement of Brother David Boylan, a well known Colchester Mason taking his Fourth Regular Step.
Lodge numbers were boosted with 20 Mark guests all coming to support the Lodge and the candidate for the evening, the Ceremony was carried out by the Worshipful Master W. Bro Andrew Hastings, who received high praise for the word-perfect ceremony that covered the whole of the Masters work without hardly a prompt, much to the delight of everyone.
Newly advanced Brother David commented at the festive board how he enjoyed the ceremony and although he sells many ritual books through Essex Mason, he has never read any of an Order that he has not joined, David also commented that it was refreshing to be the “Newbie” once again and still he had that “Candidates sense of anticipation” on the night whilst waiting to be Advanced.
After the meeting a photo was taken of some of the members and guests, not everyone, as many made a hasty retreat to the bar or were photo shy (take your pick). Everyone then dined in the usual delightful and friendly manner.
Interestingly the Constantine Lodge Warrant was issued to the “Constantine Lodge of Mark Masters” from the “Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and Wales and the Colonies and Possessions of the British Crown” and like other older Lodges still refer to themselves as “Mark Masters”.
Lodge numbers were boosted with 20 Mark guests all coming to support the Lodge and the candidate for the evening, the Ceremony was carried out by the Worshipful Master W. Bro Andrew Hastings, who received high praise for the word-perfect ceremony that covered the whole of the Masters work without hardly a prompt, much to the delight of everyone.
Newly advanced Brother David commented at the festive board how he enjoyed the ceremony and although he sells many ritual books through Essex Mason, he has never read any of an Order that he has not joined, David also commented that it was refreshing to be the “Newbie” once again and still he had that “Candidates sense of anticipation” on the night whilst waiting to be Advanced.
After the meeting a photo was taken of some of the members and guests, not everyone, as many made a hasty retreat to the bar or were photo shy (take your pick). Everyone then dined in the usual delightful and friendly manner.
Interestingly the Constantine Lodge Warrant was issued to the “Constantine Lodge of Mark Masters” from the “Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and Wales and the Colonies and Possessions of the British Crown” and like other older Lodges still refer to themselves as “Mark Masters”.
Love and Remembrance RAM and Mark No.1718
Saturday 11 November
Rochford
The Mark & Ram Lodges of Love and Remembrance met on Saturday 11 November 2023 at Rochford Masonic Temple, for what were to be emotional and memorable meetings.
After much work by the members, the Mark lodge has returned to its original Installation date of the 2nd Saturday in November, and the RAM Lodge has moved its installation date to coincide.
After much work by the members, the Mark lodge has returned to its original Installation date of the 2nd Saturday in November, and the RAM Lodge has moved its installation date to coincide.
W.Bro. Pierre Waddoups installed Bro. Kevin Bull as Commander of the RAM lodge in what can only be described as a very personal and beautifully delivered ceremony.
The Mark lodge then convened, the brethren stood to order at 11:00 for a minute’s silence before opening the lodge, and Bro Peter Murray was installed as Master.
After which Bro. Stuart Forkes presented a lectern to the Lodge to hold the new book of remembrance presented by W.Bro. Vince Bull.
The Mark lodge then convened, the brethren stood to order at 11:00 for a minute’s silence before opening the lodge, and Bro Peter Murray was installed as Master.
After which Bro. Stuart Forkes presented a lectern to the Lodge to hold the new book of remembrance presented by W.Bro. Vince Bull.
The brethren then retired to a very special festive board buffet with the new Master and Commander presiding together.
W.Bro. Pierre's partner Mary West made our now customary Installation cake with one subtle difference this time it was 2.
W.Bro. Pierre's partner Mary West made our now customary Installation cake with one subtle difference this time it was 2.
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Our next meeting is on the 2nd Saturday of February 2024 and will be a double advancement. Visitors are of course always welcome so if you want to come along to a Saturday morning meeting, please contact either our secretary or one of the other members and we hope to see you there
Mark Well brethren.
Mark Well brethren.
Posted on 25/11/23
Constantine Royal Ark Mariner Lodge No.145 and
Wayfarers Lodge of MMM No.1096
Thursday 5 October
Colchester
Bro. Brian Wright, W.Bro. Peter Hine (WC) and Bro. David Nicholls
On Thursday 5 October there were two excellent meetings held at St Giles Masonic Center Colchester when Constantine RAM and then Wayfarers Lodge MMM held meetings, the latter being a feeder lodge into Constantine RAM.
The RAM lodge opened first at 4.30 pm with W.Bro Peter Hine as Worshipful Commander, carried out the ceremony of Elevation on not one but two new members, namely Bro Brian Wright from Wayfarers Lodge and Mother Kilwinning Mark Lodges and also Bro David Nicholls of the Wayfarers Mark Lodge, the W.C was ably assisted by his officers and an enjoyable ceremony was had by all present.
The RAM lodge opened first at 4.30 pm with W.Bro Peter Hine as Worshipful Commander, carried out the ceremony of Elevation on not one but two new members, namely Bro Brian Wright from Wayfarers Lodge and Mother Kilwinning Mark Lodges and also Bro David Nicholls of the Wayfarers Mark Lodge, the W.C was ably assisted by his officers and an enjoyable ceremony was had by all present.
W.Bro Vic Hodson (acting SW), W.Bro. Andy Hardie (WM), Bro. Daniel Williams (Cand) and W.Bro. Steve Chandler (acting JW).
After the Lodge was closed it was then turned around for a Mark meeting with W.Bro Andy Hardie as the Worshipful Master, the candidate for advancement on this occasion was Bro Daniel Williams a member of Pyefleet Craft Lodge, who again was treated to an excellent ceremony carried out by the W.M and his officers, it can be seen by the number of new members that both of these lodges are in good stead.
Posted on 09/10/23
Saxon Shore No. 1319
Wednesday 4 October 23
Tollesbury
Our Royal Ark Mariners meeting precedes the Mark Master Masons meeting and last night (4 October) we had an insight to the Porphyry Stone read by W.Bro.Robin Morley. We would like to encourage new members to this Lodge so that we can perform the ritual of elevation more frequently and increase the Lodge membership.
The Masonic temple at Tollesbury has been refurbished to a high standard and would encourage those brethren who have not been here before to book into our next meeting 6 December 2023. Our festive board is always given excellent value for money so please try and attend if only to be curious of where we are and the facilities being offered. You never know you may even want to join our happy lodge.
The Masonic temple at Tollesbury has been refurbished to a high standard and would encourage those brethren who have not been here before to book into our next meeting 6 December 2023. Our festive board is always given excellent value for money so please try and attend if only to be curious of where we are and the facilities being offered. You never know you may even want to join our happy lodge.
Another successful meeting last night (4 October) where our guests assisted in filling office's Junior Deacon, Junior Overseer, and Candidate for the demonstration of the Ceremony of Advancement. For those brethren who have not yet been to the Tollesbury Masonic Centre please do try and book into our next meeting on the 6 December. We have a lovely refurbished temple with an excellent festive board and would like to encourage new members to join this happy lodge.
Posted on 09/10/23
Wyven Lodge of MMM No.1333
Thursday 28 September 2023
Wivenhoe
Wyven Lodge held its Installation meeting on Thursday 28 September. The meeting was well attended by members of the Northern Cluster Lodges to assist with Les Long becoming Master.
The Ceremony was carried out in an exemplary manner by W.Bro. Colin Kendrick.
Les was "totally blown away" by the Ceremony and the evening and went onto thank all those who had attended the meeting.
The Ceremony was carried out in an exemplary manner by W.Bro. Colin Kendrick.
Les was "totally blown away" by the Ceremony and the evening and went onto thank all those who had attended the meeting.
Posted on 02/10/23
St. Nicholas Lodge of MMM No.413
Thursday 21 September 2023
Harwich
Thursday 21 September, saw the Advancement Ceremony for Bro. Paul Barrie Bird of Mistley Craft Lodge, Proposed by Bro. A. Hodgson.
Worshipful Master Doodle Green – vacated the chair in favour of W.Bro Colin Kendrick who carried out the Advancement ceremony in fine form with visitors assisting by taking various offices in the Lodge.
An excellent Ceremony ensued with special mention going to W.Bro Derek Manister who acted as Senior Deacon, the Inner Guard Brother Colin Fisher of Aurelius Lodge (who is new to the Mark degree and stepped in at the last minute); and Bob Crow who did the signs in an exemplary manner. The Working Tools were delivered by W.Bro Derek Manister and the Conclusion was delivered by W. Bro. Rodney Osborne.
They also welcomed two Joining members
Bro. James Robinson, a MMM of Moor Park Lodge No. 1263 (Scottish Constitution), and W.Bro Andrew Sylvester of Centurion Lodge No 1804.
The Brethren retired for an excellent festive board presided over by the WM
Worshipful Master Doodle Green – vacated the chair in favour of W.Bro Colin Kendrick who carried out the Advancement ceremony in fine form with visitors assisting by taking various offices in the Lodge.
An excellent Ceremony ensued with special mention going to W.Bro Derek Manister who acted as Senior Deacon, the Inner Guard Brother Colin Fisher of Aurelius Lodge (who is new to the Mark degree and stepped in at the last minute); and Bob Crow who did the signs in an exemplary manner. The Working Tools were delivered by W.Bro Derek Manister and the Conclusion was delivered by W. Bro. Rodney Osborne.
They also welcomed two Joining members
Bro. James Robinson, a MMM of Moor Park Lodge No. 1263 (Scottish Constitution), and W.Bro Andrew Sylvester of Centurion Lodge No 1804.
The Brethren retired for an excellent festive board presided over by the WM
Bro Paul Bird (centre) flanked by WM Doodle Green and W.Bro Colin Kendrick.
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Bro James Robinson (centre) flanked by WM Doodle Green and W.Bro David Rout his seconder.
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Posted on 25/09/23
Provincial Grand Senior Warden visits George Graveley
Our Provincial Senior Warden, W. Bro. Rob Sandy, carried out his first official visit, to George Graveley Lodge at the Thurrock Masonic Hall, Chadwell St Mary on Monday 10th July.
The Royal Ark Mariner Meeting was brief, with some admin taken care of, but did see a Joining Member admitted, with W. Bro. Neil Skinner welcomed into the Lodge by the Worshipful Commander, W.Bro. Barry Coombes.
The Mark Meeting was expertly led by the Worshipful Master, R.W. Bro. Brian Vickers, who first welcomed joining member W. Bro. Neil Skinner into the Lodge and then proceeded to install W.Bro. Barry Coombes into the Masters' Chair in an excellent manner. All addresses were of high quality, with assistance from V.W. Bro. David Garston who delivered the Address to the Brethren.
W. Bro. Barry then invested his officers for the ensuing year before the Lodge was closed.
The Festive Board was most enjoyable, with excellent food enjoyed by all those present. W. Bro. Rob Sandy responded to the Toast to Provincial Grand Officers, bringing greetings from the Provincial Grand Master and his Executive, along with congratulations to W. Bro. Barry on his installation, and also gave some details of upcoming events around the Province.
The Royal Ark Mariner Meeting was brief, with some admin taken care of, but did see a Joining Member admitted, with W. Bro. Neil Skinner welcomed into the Lodge by the Worshipful Commander, W.Bro. Barry Coombes.
The Mark Meeting was expertly led by the Worshipful Master, R.W. Bro. Brian Vickers, who first welcomed joining member W. Bro. Neil Skinner into the Lodge and then proceeded to install W.Bro. Barry Coombes into the Masters' Chair in an excellent manner. All addresses were of high quality, with assistance from V.W. Bro. David Garston who delivered the Address to the Brethren.
W. Bro. Barry then invested his officers for the ensuing year before the Lodge was closed.
The Festive Board was most enjoyable, with excellent food enjoyed by all those present. W. Bro. Rob Sandy responded to the Toast to Provincial Grand Officers, bringing greetings from the Provincial Grand Master and his Executive, along with congratulations to W. Bro. Barry on his installation, and also gave some details of upcoming events around the Province.
Rob Sandy Prov.G.S.W
Rob with members of the Lodge.
Constantine Royal Ark Mariner No.145 Installation Meeting
Tuesday 18th of April.
Constantine Lodge of Royal Ark Mariner held its Installation meeting in the historic setting of St.Giles centre in Colchester.
The Ceremony saw W.Bro. Peter Nason Install Peter Hine as Commander in a most heart felt and welcoming manner.
Pictures show Brian Dack SW, Peter Hine, Peter Nason and Warren Hurling. Peter Hine with both of his Wardens.
The Ceremony saw W.Bro. Peter Nason Install Peter Hine as Commander in a most heart felt and welcoming manner.
Pictures show Brian Dack SW, Peter Hine, Peter Nason and Warren Hurling. Peter Hine with both of his Wardens.
St.Nicholas Installation Meeting
Thursday 21st of April, saw W.Bro. Edward "Doodle" Green Installed as Master of St. Nicholas Lodge in Harwich, in fine form by W.Bro. Colin Kendrick.
Pictures are Colin Kendrick, Doodle Green and David ( not to be left out) Rout and Colin congratulating Doodle.
Pictures are Colin Kendrick, Doodle Green and David ( not to be left out) Rout and Colin congratulating Doodle.
Chelmer Royal Ark Mariner Lodge Installation
Surprise for the Commander Elect
Wednesday 12th April saw Chelmer Royal Ark Mariner Lodge meet to conduct an the Installation of a new Commander in the RAM.
The Mariner meeting was opened by the Worshipful Commander, Robert Whitfield, and, after the minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed, the Director of Ceremonies presented the Commander Elect, Brother Adam Taylor, to the Worshipful Commander to be Installed. After ascertaining the necessary qualifications had been met, the Scribe read the ancient charges and regulations, all of which the Commander Elect promised to uphold; all below the rank of Installed Commander, except Brother Taylor, were then asked to retire.
The Worshipful Commander now requested Worshipful Brother Chris Brown take the Commander’s Chair for the remained of the ceremony; what made this especially nice is Worshipful Brother Brown is Adam's uncle, and Adam had no idea, until this point, that his uncle was going to be conducting his Installation into the Commander’s Chair. Chris Brown then conducted the Installation in an extremely heartfelt, and near perfect, manner, which included the Address to the Commander.
The newly Installed Commander then had much pleasure in appointing and investing his officers, before completing the business of the meeting and closing the Chelmer Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners.
Picture shows left to right Chris Brown, Adam Taylor and Rob Whitfield.
The Mariner meeting was opened by the Worshipful Commander, Robert Whitfield, and, after the minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed, the Director of Ceremonies presented the Commander Elect, Brother Adam Taylor, to the Worshipful Commander to be Installed. After ascertaining the necessary qualifications had been met, the Scribe read the ancient charges and regulations, all of which the Commander Elect promised to uphold; all below the rank of Installed Commander, except Brother Taylor, were then asked to retire.
The Worshipful Commander now requested Worshipful Brother Chris Brown take the Commander’s Chair for the remained of the ceremony; what made this especially nice is Worshipful Brother Brown is Adam's uncle, and Adam had no idea, until this point, that his uncle was going to be conducting his Installation into the Commander’s Chair. Chris Brown then conducted the Installation in an extremely heartfelt, and near perfect, manner, which included the Address to the Commander.
The newly Installed Commander then had much pleasure in appointing and investing his officers, before completing the business of the meeting and closing the Chelmer Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners.
Picture shows left to right Chris Brown, Adam Taylor and Rob Whitfield.
Mark of Love and Remembrance No. 1718
A great meeting on Saturday 1st April at Rochford, with a W Bro John Stannard Assitant Provincial Grand Master on an official visit to The Mark of Love and Remembrance 1718, escorted by W Bro David Lambert, the Ceremony of Advancement was carried out for Bro John Newling, who had an excellent ceremony carried out by the Worshipful Master Kevin Cottis-Brown, ably assisted by the dynamic duo, the Bull brothers Vince and Kevin, all topped off by the world famous buffet lunch.
Photos show John Stannard welcoming John Newling also both John's with the Master Kevin.
Photos show John Stannard welcoming John Newling also both John's with the Master Kevin.
Chingford Royal Ark Mariner
Double Elevation
Friday 17th March saw both the Chingford Royal Ark Mariner and Mark Lodges meet in the impressive main temple at their home venue of the Chingford Masonic Centre.
With some of the key members of the R.A.M. Lodge unavoidably absent, W.Bro. Mick West and W.Bro. Len Abrahams had both "volunteered" to assist by acting as S.D. and Commander respectively.
Shane Lowler (pictured right) and Chris Hales (pictured left) were both Elevated in fine form with Bro. Mick Scotchmer discharging his duties as J.D. most admirably.
Len Abrahams was, as ever, both competent and affable as the Commander and both candidates were suitably impressed by the entire ceremony.
The Mark meeting was the Installation meeting with W.Bro. Scotchmer remaining in office for an impressive (and probably never to be bettered) fifth consecutive year! That said, he was Installed immediately "pre-Covid" but, by dispensation, has seen service since. The proclamation and salutations were discharged by W.Bro. Mick West, G.Stwd, using his previous experience as Prov.G.D.C, when the Lodge D.C. realised that there was, in fact, an actual ceremony of proclamation. W.Bro. West said that he was delighted to do so and that he would not embarrass W.Bro. David Hook by mentioning his name as Lodge D.C.
It was, all in all, an excellent evening topped off by a fine festive board held in great humour, good fun and fine friendship.
With some of the key members of the R.A.M. Lodge unavoidably absent, W.Bro. Mick West and W.Bro. Len Abrahams had both "volunteered" to assist by acting as S.D. and Commander respectively.
Shane Lowler (pictured right) and Chris Hales (pictured left) were both Elevated in fine form with Bro. Mick Scotchmer discharging his duties as J.D. most admirably.
Len Abrahams was, as ever, both competent and affable as the Commander and both candidates were suitably impressed by the entire ceremony.
The Mark meeting was the Installation meeting with W.Bro. Scotchmer remaining in office for an impressive (and probably never to be bettered) fifth consecutive year! That said, he was Installed immediately "pre-Covid" but, by dispensation, has seen service since. The proclamation and salutations were discharged by W.Bro. Mick West, G.Stwd, using his previous experience as Prov.G.D.C, when the Lodge D.C. realised that there was, in fact, an actual ceremony of proclamation. W.Bro. West said that he was delighted to do so and that he would not embarrass W.Bro. David Hook by mentioning his name as Lodge D.C.
It was, all in all, an excellent evening topped off by a fine festive board held in great humour, good fun and fine friendship.
Essex Men travel North
N.E.Yorshire A.G.M
A dozen Essex Mark Men, led by the Provincial Grand Master, headed north in three cars to attend the N&E Yorks Provincial Grand Lodge meeting in York.
Braving weather, which was forecast to be a mix of rain and snow, our intrepid bunch reached their destination late on Friday afternoon. A few pints of Doombar (@£3.55) were followed by dinner at which Ranjit celebrated his birthday, and a good nights sleep. Saturday morning dawned and a hearty breakfast (no fried bread) was hastily consumed, as taxis were booked for 9.45. Having arrived securely at York racecourse we were treated like true friends by the Yorks members. A really memorable meeting and festive board. About 220 in attendance. Several have promised to join us on the 1st of June. Thanks to NEYorksMark for a great weekend. All arrived home safely late on Sunday afternoon.
Braving weather, which was forecast to be a mix of rain and snow, our intrepid bunch reached their destination late on Friday afternoon. A few pints of Doombar (@£3.55) were followed by dinner at which Ranjit celebrated his birthday, and a good nights sleep. Saturday morning dawned and a hearty breakfast (no fried bread) was hastily consumed, as taxis were booked for 9.45. Having arrived securely at York racecourse we were treated like true friends by the Yorks members. A really memorable meeting and festive board. About 220 in attendance. Several have promised to join us on the 1st of June. Thanks to NEYorksMark for a great weekend. All arrived home safely late on Sunday afternoon.
Northern Star Lodge. No.2012.
Saturday 4th of April
Harwich Masonic Hall
The members of Northern Star Lodge were honoured with the presence of the Deputy Provincial Grand Master,W.Bro John Finlay who came not only for the wonderful breakfast including fried bread but also to present the Lodge with their Gold certificate and colarette for contributions to the 2030 Festival.
The Deputy P.G.M did not leave empty handed as he was presented with a cheque for £500 to be put towards the Provincial Grand Master's wing walk fund.
It was an excellent meeting, though several of the key members were missing either through illness or other Masonic duties, one of those struck down with illness was the Worshipful Master, WBro Andy Sylvester, his stand in for the day was W.Bro. Colin Kendrick,who was more than happy to help the Lodge.
The Deputy P.G.M did not leave empty handed as he was presented with a cheque for £500 to be put towards the Provincial Grand Master's wing walk fund.
It was an excellent meeting, though several of the key members were missing either through illness or other Masonic duties, one of those struck down with illness was the Worshipful Master, WBro Andy Sylvester, his stand in for the day was W.Bro. Colin Kendrick,who was more than happy to help the Lodge.
Naze Tower Lodge of Mark Master Masons No. 1380
Wednesday 15 February 2023
Kiry Cross
Naze Tower continues to go from strength to strength, with yet another candidate.
Their meeting held on Wednesday 15 February, saw Kevin Gurner, a member of Arnold craft Lodge at Kirby Cross Advanced in fantastic form.
The Worshipful Master John Adams was assisted by Andy Sylvester in welcoming Kevin to our Friendly Degree.
Their meeting held on Wednesday 15 February, saw Kevin Gurner, a member of Arnold craft Lodge at Kirby Cross Advanced in fantastic form.
The Worshipful Master John Adams was assisted by Andy Sylvester in welcoming Kevin to our Friendly Degree.
Andy with Kevin
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John Adams welcomes Kevin into the Degree.
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Posted on 21/2/23
St. Nicholas RAM Lodge No.413
Monday 6 February 2023
Harwich
On Monday 6 February 2023 the St. Nicholas Lodge of Royal Ark Mariner No.413 met at Harwich and saw the Installation of Bro. Peter Ball as the new Worshipful Commander.
Peter was Installed in a fine Ceremony by Brian Todd.
Peter was Installed in a fine Ceremony by Brian Todd.
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Posted on 12/02/23
Chelmer RAM and MMM Lodges No.342
Wednesday 11 January 23
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Wednesday 11 January saw the first meeting of Chelmer Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Lodges for 2023, with a lecture in the RAM and an Advancement in the Mark.
The Royal Ark Mariner meeting was a relatively short affair which commenced with Brother Adam Taylor, the Lodge’s Junior Warden, being elected as Commander for the ensuing year. Following this the Worshipful Commander, Worshipful Brother Robert Whitfield, presented RAM Certificates to Brothers Chris Gunn and Bruce Heubner. The Worshipful Commander presented a talk entitled “The Porphyry Stone”, which was very interesting and informative, and well received by all present.
Following the closure of the Mariner meeting, and the rearrangement of the Temple, the Mark meeting was opened by the Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother Ian Gager. After approval of the minutes and investiture of officers not present at the Installation meeting, it was time for the main business of the evening, namely the Advancement of Brother Richard Ramjane, a member of Fryerning Lodge No 6938.
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The entire Ceremony of Advancement was conducted by the Worshipful Master in an absolutely flawless manner, ably assisted by all the Officers of Chelmer Lodge, and thus ensured Brother Ramjane had a truly memorable welcome into the Mark Degree.
The remaining agenda items were completed, and after which the Lodge was closed, the members and guests retired to a friendly and enjoyable Festive Board.
Posted on 15/01/23
