The brethren and friends of Rivington Lodge No 8013 gathered to celebrate the installation of Michael Goodman into the chair of King Solomon and were honoured by the presence of grand officer Steve Gregory PAGDC representing the Provincial Grand Master Tony Harrison.
Pictured from left to right, are: Keith Bennett, Graeme Hunt, Michael Goodman and Henry Knoblet.
Steve was accompanied by Malcolm Dewhurst, Chorley Group Treasurer Joe Hall and group secretary Don Hesketh, as well as acting Provincial grand officers Michael Greenhalgh, Bill Nelson and Gary Smith.
Jayson Jackson installed Michael Goodman in what was a word perfect ceremony, a treat to watch. The address to the master was presented by Ray Wilkinson, the address to the wardens by David Parker and the address to the brethren was given by Steve Gregory.
Special mention must be made of the brethren in light blue that did a great job with the working tools; Graeme Hunt in the third degree, Keith Bennett in the second degree and Henry Knoblet in the first degree; all under the watchful eye of the director of ceremonies Michael Jones.
Pictured left: Gary Smith (left) toasts Michael Goodman (with reveller in background). Pictured right: Steve Gregory (left) and Michael Goodman.
Steve brought greetings and best wishes from the Provincial Grand Master who wished all those in the lodge health, strength and happiness.
In reply Michael thanked Steve for his kind words and presented him with charity donations, Steve thanked Michael for the very generous donations the lodge members had made to Firwood School £250, Friends of Ecclesholme £250, Macmillan Nurses £250, Alzheimer’s Society £250, West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity £665.96, Croston Flood Appeal £223, United Grand Lodge Tercentenary Appeal £300, Deaf Athlete Beth Lishman £100, Masonic Bowling £15, Masonic Golf £10, and Masonic Clay Pigeon Shooting £10. It was a total of £2,323.96 and with gift aid £2,490.45, a very grand total.
The festive board was a celebration of Masonic friendship with 30 East Lancashire Masons to cheer on Michael in his new role as master of Rivington Lodge.
Michael’s response to the toast to his health was very accomplished and extremely witty. With good food, good wine an exceedingly good company, an excellent night was had by all.
Pictured from left to right, are: Michael Greenhalgh, Bill Nelson, Joe Hall, Steve Gregory, Michael Goodman, Jayson Jackson, Malcolm Dewhurst, Don Hesketh and Gary Smith.