Essex brethren attend Buckinghamshire Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge
Members of the Essex Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge attend their counterpart Lodge in Buckinghamshire
On Monday 10th November, Essex Freemasons Philip Walker, Andy Hastings, and Carl Howells journeyed to the Slough Masonic Hall to attend the meeting of the Buckinghamshire Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge No. 9222. The occasion marked the installation of the Worshipful Master Elect, Neil Gordon Robertson, Deputy Provincial Grand Master in a ceremony conducted with precision and dignity by Philip Bernard Blacklaw, Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master.
The event drew a distinguished gathering of nearly 100 brethren, including the Provincial Grand Master of Buckinghamshire, Tim Anders, with representatives from several Provincial Grand Stewards Lodges, and Essex proudly among them. The ritual was executed with exemplary choreography, reflecting the high standards of the Province.
The Temple itself was beautifully appointed, and the warmth of welcome was palpable throughout. A particularly memorable moment came during the address to the Worshipful Master, delivered by Gordon Robertson, Past Provincial Grand Master who, in a touching twist, is also the father of the newly installed Master. His concluding words were greeted with “Thanks Dad!” from Neil which drew knowing smiles and heartfelt applause, marking a proud moment for a Lewis* ascending to the Chair in such a prestigious Lodge.
Beyond the ceremony, the Slough Masonic Hall offered further delights, including a well-curated Masonic Museum housing an array of fascinating artifacts.
The evening concluded with a superb four-course festive board, where Philip, Andy, and Carl were treated with generous hospitality and engaging conversation. The camaraderie extended well beyond the dining room, with promises of future meetings across Provinces in the weeks ahead.
The next visit by our intrepid three will be to the Province of Derbyshire on Saturday 6th December to represent our own Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge of Essex and continuing the tradition, with equal enthusiasm and fraternal spirit.
‘*’ The term ‘Lewis’ means the son of a Freemason.
Photos:
Top L-R: Philip Walker with Neil Robertson, Worshipful Master
Right: Slough Masonic Temple & museum
