A remarkable Installation at the Henry de Gray Lodge
Peter Low describes Jamie Barton's impactful leadership, which has led to increased engagement at the Henry de Gray Lodge
“I first visited Henry de Gray Lodge No. 6627 in 2020 and left that evening thinking, “what a cracking meeting.” Jamie Barton, then holding the office of Junior Deacon, had delivered a flawless explanation of the ‘Second Degree Working Tools*’. The room was alive with energy from members and visitors alike, so much so that it prompted me to join the lodge.
At the subsequent meeting, Jamie delivered an exemplary rendition of the ‘Charge after Initiation*’, surpassing previous performances with notable composure and sincerity. This performance marked a turning point for the lodge, as Jamie's leadership inspired increased engagement among friends and family, many of whom subsequently joined. The benchmark established by Jamie soon became the standard to which others aspired.
Around that time, just before or during the pandemic, Jamie and his fellow member and cousin David Barton helped to form the ‘Light Blues Association+’ under the leadership of David Hawtin. Their drive and enthusiasm have seen the association thrive, providing younger Freemasons across the province with fellowship, guidance, and encouragement.
Before returning to Jamie’s story, it is worth pausing on David Barton’s own contribution. A local businessman and community leader, David was recently awarded the ‘High Sheriff’s Certificate of Recognition’ for his outstanding charitable and community work. He founded Get Started Art, an Essex-born initiative now helping disadvantaged children, vulnerable adults, and people with learning disabilities or special needs across the UK and beyond. David has also worked tirelessly to connect Masonic centres and lodges with their local communities, creating new funds and grassroots projects that support schools, care homes, and small charities. His humility is as striking as his achievements, on receiving the award he said, “It reflects the work not just of myself, but of all the volunteers and supporters who dedicate their time to making a difference in our communities.” His efforts embody the quiet, practical generosity that defines our Craft.
Fast forward to Saturday 4th October 2025, at the Cross Keys Masonic Centre and Jamie’s journey reached a proud milestone. In an immaculate ceremony conducted by Geoff Harris, Jamie was installed as Worshipful Master of Henry de Gray Lodge and uniquely all his new progressive officers were Light Blues. With David Barton and John Deeble taking the Wardens chairs is a testament to the health of the lodge and to Jamie’s inspiring enthusiasm for Freemasonry.
The ritual was extremely well presented, save for one delightful running joke. Each time Jamie attempted to pronounce ‘emblem’, it came out as ‘emblem’um.’ The harder he tried to correct himself, the more it became a light-hearted refrain, filling the room with good-natured laughter that carried into the festive board.
Jamie was visibly moved during the ceremony and that emotion continued as the evening drew to a close and when Melvin Page sang the Master’s Song, its verse rang especially true:
As clouds that in sunshine are open - And silvered by light passing through;
So men who are generous in spirit - Are blessed by the good deeds they do;
There’s nothing like helping another - For getting one’s own self along;
Who does this is truly a brother - And here’s to his health in a song.
It was a fitting tribute to a Mason whose journey has inspired friends, strengthened his lodge, and reminded us all, of the joy and fellowship at the heart of our Craft.”
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‘*’ Parts of ritual ceremonies that are performed in a brother’s journey of becoming a Freemason.
‘+’ Brethren who have not achieved a Metropolitan, Provincial, or District rank.
The press release describing David Barton being awarded the High Sheriff’s Certificate of Recognition can be seen from this link:
Photos:
Top: Jamie standing proud as Master surrounded by his 'Light Blue' officers
Left: L-R David Barton, Jamie, John Deeble
Right: Jamie with members, guests, visitors and sitting a plethora of Grand Officers
