A first for the new officers of Woodspring!

A significant highlight of the evening was the initiation of Mr. Andrew John Collins into the mysteries of Freemasonry. After signing the necessary declaration and paying the appropriate fees, Mr. Collins was admitted to the Lodge. W. Bro Simon Reilly posed the required questions, and Mr. Collins was admitted in due and ancient form. Following the initiation, the Lodge conducted a full explanation of the degree’s symbolic penalties and secrets, with contributions from W. Bro Marcus Crew, W. Bro Alan Carter, and Bro Alistair R,  Bro Collins was invested with the distinguishing badge of an Entered Apprentice by the W Bro Gary Mackenzie, W. Bro Peter Ansell presented the Charity Charge, and Bro Alistair R presented the Working Tools. 

The initiation ceremony was conducted with great dignity and professionalism. Afterward, W. Bro David Trotter gave his usual moving and humorous rendition of the Charge after Initiation, and Bro Collins took his seat in the Lodge as a newly initiated member.

As the meeting drew to a close, the Worshipful Master rose to receive the Lodge’s Christmas and New Year greetings, and the Lodge was closed at 8:00 p.m. in harmony and prayer. The closing ode was sung, and alms were collected. The meeting raised a total of £240.31 through the alms and a raffle.

Brethren then retired to the Festive Board, where the usual toasts were made, and harmony prevailed, bringing the evening to a close on a note of fellowship and good cheer.

The Woodspring Lodge extends its best wishes to all Brethren for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.