Prov.G.M with Andy Sylvester having received M.B.F. Diamond Patron award.
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Essex is very fortunate to have three Roman themed Lodges. Constantine Lodge No.145, being our oldest Lodge, Aurelius No.814, daughter of Constatine Lodge and Centurion Lodge No.1804.
After 8 months of planning the Provincial Grand Master's idea of holding a Roman themed Cluster meeting came to fruition.
At 0855 0n Saturday 28 February the Lodge D.C called everyone to order to receive the Worshipful Master, accompanied by the Ceremonial Axe and accompanied by the banners of the Legions.
Once they had entered the Temple and the Lodge was opened the Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro. John Finlay entered accompanied by his Active Officers.
He then took the Chair and gave a very moving and personal eulogy to the recently departed Pro Grand Master.
He then addressed the Brethren briefly before handing the Gavel back to the Master.
The main business of the meeting then commenced with the Advancement of Brother Andy Hall into our Friendly Degree.
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With the exception of the work carried out by the Master , all other work was carried out by lay Brethren who have yet to reach the Chair or receive honours.
There was not a book in sight and the level of ritual was outstanding. Nothing unusual there I hear you say.. Considering that the Lodges are located at either end of Essex, it was not possible to have an LOI where everyone could attend. So full praise must go to W.Bro's. Tony King and Vince Bull for holding separate LOI's and ensuring a first class level of ritual was carried out.
Bro. Andy Hall really enjoyed the Ceremony, but what came as a surprise to all those attending was that it was his daughters birthday and also his wedding anniversary.
Once the meeting had concluded 65 Brethren retired to the Festive Board for an Italian themed lunch which was enjoyed by all.
The raffle and other fundraising events totalled £560.00 which was donated to the Prov.G.M in aid of the parachuting event for our 2030 Festival.
The Prov.G.M thanked the Lodges and informed the Brethren that due to the enormous success of the meeting, it was his intention to hold another Roman Cluster meeting in 2027 and he awarded the pleasure to Centurion Lodge, whose secretary was very happy to hear this news as he is also the secretary for Aurelius Lodge. Onwards and Upwards.
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Our Centurion Bro. Colin Fisher greeted everyone as they arrived. Colin also acted as S.D.
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All those who attended.
Officium Bene Factum
All of the Lay Brethren with the Master and those who assisted in the Advancement.
The calm before the storm.
Lodge Banner Bearers Alex Thake for Centurion and Colin Fisher for Aurelius
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W.Bro. Paul Firmin Prov.G.Almoner ( AKA Bigus Gobus)
Brother Alan Penney Charity Steward dressed a Roman for the Festive Board.
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Posted on 07/03/26
