David Badger celebrates his 50-year anniversary with a surprising ceremony
David Badger much loved member of the Lodge of Fraternity is treated to a surprised filled celebration of his 50-year anniversary
At the regular meeting of the Lodge of Fraternity No. 5916 that meets at the Southend Masonic Centre on Saturday, 25th October they celebrated the 50th Anniversary of much-loved member David Badger.
The meeting began as usual, with Neil March, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master (APGM), arriving for his official visit. Unexpectedly however, Paul Tarrant the Provincial Grand Master (PGM), also followed him into the meeting.
The PGM occupied the Master's chair and entertained everyone by reflecting on David’s Masonic career, sharing some humorous stories and noting that David was his proposer in joining the Lodge of Fraternity some 48 years ago and naturally they have remained firm friends ever since.
A few extracts of David’s masonic career include him serving twice as Worshipful Master of the Lodge of Fraternity and holding ranks in several other lodges. He became a Royal Arch companion and was a founding member of the Chapter of True Friendship No. 160, and in recent years, received the honour of being made a Royal Arch, Grand Officer.
David was appointed Secretary of the ‘Association of Friends of Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court*’ and, drawing on his career in journalism, joined the Essex Communications Team in 2020. Currently serving as Deputy Provincial Communications Officer, he undertakes a variety of responsibilities, including the production editor for the Essex Mason.
The PGM presented David with his 50-year certificate and lapel pin together with another surprise by giving him a field promotion of Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden.
For David it was an emotional moving moment of proud significance which was shared by everyone present and with the shock surprise appearance of the PGM just left him speechless.
The warmth of the meeting spilled over to the Festive Board in which a final surprise was made of a celebration cake^ and decorated with the apron of his new rank.
The evening concluded what was a memorable heart-warming occasion as members and guests shared conversations reflecting memories of Freemasonry over the past 50 years.
‘*’ Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, Stisted Hall: https://rmbi.org.uk/home/prince-edward-duke-of-kent-courtessex/
‘^’ The cake was made by Master Baker, David Dann.
Photo’s:
Top:
Back: Billy Robb, Worshipful Master
Front L-R: Neil March (APGM), David Badger, Paul Tarrant (PGM)
Right: The splendid cake – YES! it is a cake - adorned with the apron icing
