The Installation of WBro Graham Denis Grishakow PProvStB into the Chair of the Lodge.

† The WM WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD requested the Brethren stand to order in respect of departed merit WBro David T Bury PProvGSuptWks who had passed away 24 December 2024, who lived respected and died regretted. †
23 Nov 1935 - 24 Dec 2024

WBro Dennis Heskett PProvGReg read a eulogy.

The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD.

The Secretary WBro Ken Lee confirmed receipt of the Dispensation to hold the meeting on Saturday the 25th of January 2025.

The Secretary also read the summons convening the meeting and the minutes of our last regular Lodge, having been circulated were approved and signed by the WM, SW and JW.

WBro Alan Kirwilliam PSGD PAProvGM the representative of the RWProvGM was admitted accompanied by the Northern Area Chairman, Grand Lodge Officers and the RWProvGM of Galloway, Scotland. Salutations were given accordingly.

For the purpose of Installation, the WIM, WBro Fielder, invited WBro Andy Shaw PProvSGD to occupy the SW's Chair, WBro Dennis Heskett PProvGReg to remain in the JW's chair, WBro Greg Casson PProvGSwdB to act as IG and WBro Ray Godwin PProvDepGDC to remain as Tyler.

The WIM then requested all Brethren below the rank of a FC to retire for a short time and the Lodge was opened in the 2nd Degree.

The main business of the meeting was to install WBro Graham Denis Grishakow PProvStB, WME into the Chair of this old Lodge. WBro M Rosney ProvSGD, DC, presented the WME to the WIM. WBro Grishakow reaffirmed his agreement to the Ancient Charges and Regulations before advanced to the pedestal to reaffirm his obligation. All Brethren below the rank of a MM retired for a short time and the Lodge was opened in the Third-Degree.

All those below the rank of an Installed Master retired from the Lodge, a Board of IM's was opened by ritual and the WME, WBro Graham D Grishakow was installed into the Chair of King Solomon by the WBro Alan Fielder, who performed the Ceremony of Installation in an excellent manner. The WT of an IM were presented and explained in an excellent manner by WBro C Harris a past member of the Lodge, now a member of Lodge St. Medans 1335 (SC). The Lodge was called off for a comfort break.

The Lodge was called on and WBro Rosney, DC, closed the B of IM by ritual. Work resumed in the various Degrees with:

• WBro Casson presented the WT's of a MM in the Third-Degree.
• Bro Jason Fitzgerald presented the WT's of a FC in the Second-Degree.
• WBro Casson presented the WT's of an EA in the First-Degree.
• The Warrants, Book of Constitutions, By-Laws, Banners, and Bible Fall were presented to the WM by WBro Alan Fielder, IPM

All performed their work in an excellent manner, to the usual high standard and with sincerity.

The WM was requested to appoint and invest his officers. Officers who were unable to attend the Installation will be invested at some future date.

The address to the WM as given by WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, the address to the Wardens by WBro Stuart Rayton and the address to the Brethren by WBro Paul Aspinall PAGDC.

Reports were received from the WBro Rayton (Acting Almoner) in the absence of WBro Derek Smith PProvGReg, Almoner, WBro Heskett, CS presented the Charity Report, and WBro Ken Lee, District Representative gave his report.

The WM then presented WBro Kirwilliam with an envelope containing details of donations to various Charities. WBro Kirwilliam thanked the WM and Brethren for these most generous donations of £1000 to the 2026 Festival, £1000 to the ELMC, and £1,200 to local charities and good causes.

WBro Alan Kirwilliam then presented WBro Grishakow, WM with a commemorative certificate from the members of the Lodge.

Other business of the Lodge was transacted and in AOB WBro Donald Bright PProvJGW requested that everyone present to stay behind after the Lodge was closed for the usual photographs.

There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony, and an excellent and jovial Installation Festive Board followed.

The minutes recorded apologies from members, however, 17 members and 17 visitors were present from Lodges in the Provinces of East Lancs, West Lancs, and Galloway (Scotland).

Initiation of Mr Scott Smith

The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB.

WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler, acted as JW in the absence of WBro Dennis Heskett, PProvGReg, JW.
WBro Ray Godwin PProvDepGDC, LMO and Organist acted as Tyler.

The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.

The WM invested WBro R Godwin PProvDepGDCas Organist. WBro Godwin then retired to attend to the candidate as acting Tyler. WBro R Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec also retired to attend to the candidate.

The WM advised that the next business was to Initiate Mr Scott Smith. There was a report, and the Sec was readmitted. WBro Harwood confirmed that the candidate had signed the necessary paperwork and the required dues had been paid.

The IG announced an alarm, the candidate, Mr Smith was admitted, and the ceremony was conducted by the WM in an excellent manner, assisted by officers of the Lodge. Bro K Rawcliffe, JD conducted the candidate reassuringly, Bro B Manoliu, SD presented the Northeast Corner, and presented and explained the WTs in an excellent manner. The WM advised Bro Smith of the authority by which we act and proceeded to present him with the B of C and Lodge By-laws, before asking him to retire to restore himself to his own personal comfort.

There was a report and Bro Smith was readmitted and conducted to the centre of the Lodge. WBro K Lee, SW delivered the Charge after Initiation from the S; the delivery was outstanding, given with clarity and sincerity. The test questions and answers were demonstrated by the WM and his Wardens.

The WM welcomed Bro Smith into the Lodge and presented him with his Lodge EA certificate before inviting him to take his seat in Lodge.

Reports were received from the Almoner, CS and Area Rep.

Other business of the Lodge, communications and Accounts were transacted, and the Lodge was closed in due form and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.

Apologies were recorded in the minutes; however, 13 members and 3 visitors were present.

The Annual Trip To St Medans
** Congratulations to Lodge St. Medans on attaining your Centennial **

This time the visit included the wives of the members, who met up with the Ladies of St. Medans.

The Lodge Banners

The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB.

WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler, acted as SW in the absence of WBro Ken Lee. WBro Greg Casson PProvGSwdB acted as SD and WBro Ray Godwin PProvDepGDC, LMO and Organist acted as Tyler.

The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.

The WM invested WBro Steve Barton PAGDC, as Treasurer. Bro Simon Povey was invested as a Steward.

The Lodge was called off and two future candidates, Mark Waterhouse and Simon Edwards were welcomed into the Lodge room.

A presentation researched and written by Bro K Rawcliffe, JD entitled "The Lodge Banners" was presented by Bro's Rawcliffe, P Chapman, S Povey and S Smith. It was obvious that lots of time and effort had gone into preparing the presentation, which was delivered in an excellent manner. The WM thanked the Brethren for their presentation and all in attendance showed their appreciation with a warm round of applause.

Mark Waterhouse and Simon Edwards retired, and the Lodge was called on.

WBro Barton, advised that all Brethren had received a copy of the audited Lodge accounts for 2024, and he had not received any questions. He therefore proposed that the accounts be accepted. WBro D Bright PProvJGW seconded the proposition, and the Brethren approved by show of hands.

WBro D Heskett PProvGReg, Ch Stwd advised that all Brethren had received a copy of the audited Charity accounts for 2024, and he had not received any questions. He therefore proposed that the accounts be accepted. WBro M Rosney PProvSGD seconded the proposition, and the Brethren approved by show of hands.

Following notice of motion, Bro P Chapman proposed Mr Simon John Edwards, date of birth 27th Feb 1973, residing at 283 Manchester Road, Burnley, Lancashire, BB11 4HN. Employed as a coach builder at Transdev Burnley & Pendle Ltd, Prospect Park, Broughton Way, Harrogate, HG2 7NY, for membership of the Lodge of Amity and Rossendale Forest No.283. Seconded by WBro G Casson PProvGSwdB.

Reports were received from the Almoner and Charity Steward.

Greetings were given by WBro S Barton PAGDC after the first rising, who congratulated the Brethren who had taken part in the presentation, providing another advancement in Masonic knowledge.

Greetings were given by WBro S Rayton PProvJGW after the second rising, who reiterated the comments of WBro Barton, adding further congratulations for Bro Rawcliffe for his extensive research in compiling the presentation. He finished by stating that even he had learnt something new!

In AOB:

• WBro Rayton requested that certain Brethren remain in the Lodge in regalia for the usual photos.
• WBro A Fielder PProvJGD asked the Brethren to consider assisting again at the Todmorden Country Fair on the 21st of June.
• Bro R Godwin gave notice of motion that at the April meeting he will propose Mr Mark Waterhouse for membership of the Lodge.

Greetings were received from Bro Simon Morley of Lancashire Scouting Lodge of Allegiance No.6384. He thanked the Brethren for their invitation, hospitality, and the warm friendly way in which he and Bro Duncan Pritchard had been greeted.

The Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.

Fifteen Members were in attendance together with Two visitors and Two candidates.

Acting Officers: Bro J Fitzgerald as JD and WBro G Casson PProvGSwdB as IG.

The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB

The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.

WBro S Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler was admitted.
A presentation entitled "The White Gloves" was delivered in an excellent manner by our newest member, Bro Scott Smith. The WM thanked Bro Smith for the presentation and all in attendance showed their appreciation with a warm round of applause.
The Tyler retired to attend to his duties.

Following notice of motion and on behalf of WBro R Godwin PProvDepGDC, LMO, the WM proposed Mr Mark Waterhouse, for membership of the Lodge of Amity and Rossendale Forest No.283. Seconded by WBro R Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec.

A ballot for Mr Simon John Edwards (details as per the summons), for membership of the Lodge proved in favour. Being Mr Edward's seconder, WBro Casson, acting IG thanked the Brethren for their confidence in Bro P Chapman's candidate.

Reports were received from the Almoner and Charity Steward.

At the Second Rising: The Sec communicated the following:

• The new membership app, "Portal" is an easy way for you to access and manage your Masonic profile, see the meeting dates for your Lodges and Chapters, and chart your Masonic journey, amongst many other useful aspects. Unfortunately as A&RF is a lunar Lodge the system is currently unable to cope with our meeting dates. I have distributed the details you need to access the Portal on your PC and mobile device, and I would urge all members to register.

Greetings were given by WBro D Bright PProvJGW, who thanked Bro Smith for a very interesting presentation.

At the Third Rising: The Sec communicated the following:

• This year, the Northern Area Royal Arch Dinner will be at The Adelaide Suit in Accrington on Saturday 10th May. The Deputy Grand Superintendent, EComp Paul Bowen and the Assistant to The Provincial Grand Principals, EComp Andrew Taylor will both be in attendance, and the cost is £35 per person, which includes Dinner and entertainment.
• De Lacy Lodge are hosting a Scottish 3rd Degree demonstration in this building on Saturday the 14th of June, and I'm sure they would be delighted to receive your support.

  The Sec advised that all summonses for Northern Area Lodges are accessible through the links in his email footer, before giving details of the apologies received.

  AOB:

  • WBro Fielder PProvJGD, IPM advised that he is still looking for volunteers to assist at the Todmorden Fair on Saturday the 21st of June. Lodge members, partners and family members would be welcome to help. Several members, partners and future candidates are currently signed up. The Sec apologised for missing this item under the third rising.
  • WBro M Rosney PProvSGD asked the Brethren to remain in the Lodge for the usual photo.
  • The WM announced that after eleven years in Office, WBro Heskett will step down as RA Rep with immediate effect to allow WBro Harwood to take on the role. As WBro Harwood was appointed Royal Arch Area Rep (RAAO) at the recent Provincial Grand Chapter meeting, the change makes sense. He thanked WBro Heskett for his dedication to the role and WBro Harwood for the work he will do in the office. WBro's Heskett and Harwood responded accordingly.

  There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.

   

Acting Officers: Bro J Fitzgerald as JD

The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB

The Worshipful Masters of our Family of Lodges were admitted, and presented to WBro Grishakow, WM, those attending were:

• WBro Alex Wright, WM of Rhyddings Lodge No.5205,
• WBro Michael Gosling, WM of St. Aidan Lodge No. 6339,
• WBro Brian Derbyshire, PProvJGW, WM of Hyndburn Lodge of Installed Masters No. 8766.

The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.

The main event of the evening was to pass Bro Scott Smith to the Degree of a Fellowcraft. Bro Smith answered the questions before passing in a very exemplary way, he was Deaconed by Bro Jason Fitzgerald acting JD. Bro Smith was then entrusted with the credentials to re-enter the Lodge after being prepared. Bro Smith then retired for preparation.

The WM then opened the Lodge in the Second-Degree and invited WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD, IPM to occupy the Chair.
Bro Smith was then readmitted to the Lodge and Passed to the Degree of a Fellowcraft by WBro Fielder in an excellent manner.

• The candidate was Deaconed by Bro Bogdan Manoliu SD in a confident manner.
• The address to the SE Corner was given by Bro Manoliu
• The explanation of the Working Tools was given by WBro Russell Harwood, PProvGSwdB
• The Charge after Passing was given by WBro Ken Lee, SW

Bro Smith retired to restore himself. The WM reoccupied the Chair. Bro Smith was readmitted and the WM demonstrated the test questions before Raising with the assistance of the SW and JW. Bro Smith was congratulated on taking the Second regular step in Freemasonry and resumed his seat in the Lodge. The Lodge was closed by virtue to the First-Degree.

A ballot for Mr Mark Waterhouse (details as per the summons), for membership of the Lodge proved in favour. WBro R Godwin thanked the Brethren for their confidence in his candidate.

Reports were received from the Almoner and Charity Steward.

The Sec had no business to report at the First Rising,

At the Second Rising: The Sec communicated the following:

• Brethren, I have another reminder that the new membership app, "Portal" is open for registration and I urge those who have not yet done so to register as soon as possible.The East Lancashire Bicentenary is being celebrated on Sunday the 18th of May with a 7 or 10 miles walk incorporating a Treasure Hunt. The event is open to all the family and will be arranged on staggered start times. Registration is now open and the details can be found on the flyer previously circulated.

Greetings were given by WBro D Bright PProvJGW, on behalf of the Provincial Grand Lodge Officers, who congratulated Bro Smith on becoming a Fellowcraft..

At the Third Rising: The Sec communicated the following:

• De Lacy Lodge are hosting a Scottish 3rd Degree demonstration in this building on Saturday the 14th of June, and I'm sure they would be delighted to receive your support.
• WBro Fielder is still looking for volunteers to assist at the Todmorden Fair on Saturday the 21st of June. Lodge members, partners and family would be welcome to help. So far we have myself and Lynette, Kevin and Michelle, and one of our candidates, Mark Waterhouse. If anyone else can help please contact me as soon as possible.
• The next Area meeting will be at 7:30pm on Tue the 13th of May at Burnley Masonic Hall. The Area APGP, EComp Andrew Taylor will address the meeting and all members are encouraged to attend.

The Sec advised that all summonses for Northern Area Lodges are accessible through the links in his email footer, before giving details of the apologies received.

AOB:

WBro Rosney asked the Brethren to stay after the Lodge was closed for the usual photographs for the website.

Visiting Brethren tended greetings one from each Lodge. They all congratulated Bro Smith on the way he answered the test questions and his conduct in the Lodge.

There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.