A Major Initiation At Portcullis 2028
On 9th March Portcullis Lodge 2038 meeting in Langport initiated Major Richard Potts into it’s growing band of serving military officers; their last initiate being a Royal Navy Officer. Having only had their installation meeting 3 weeks ago, Portcullis had several new lodge officers in place to carry out the ceremony. Denis Paul (who last carried out an initiation ceremony 31 years ago!) was back in the chair and had one of his initiates in the lodge John Vowles to support him. The candidate, an Army helicopter pilot who has been deployed on operations worldwide, was still somewhat nervous – as many initiates are understandably. Grant Peckham undertaking his Junior Deacon’s duties for the first time worked incredibly hard and was certainly a commanding presence on the night, with honourable mentions to Dom Smythe Riberio, Tony Hooper and Malcolm Head who all also gave superb performances.
Another highlight of the evening was Gary Richmond presenting a Grand Lodge Certificate to Rob Isaacs which was beautifully done. Gary explained the changes over the years to the certificate and bought in a very old certificate that had been given to him, when the Duke of Devonshire was Grand Master. The brethren then retired to the Festive Board at the Langport Arms for a splendid carvery. Richard thoroughly enjoyed the night which went into the early hours of the morning in true Portcullis fashion!
Article by: Mike Norton – Portcullis LCO
Posted by: Ed Richings ACO (SW)
