Historic and Momentous Meeting at Prudence and Industry
December 18th saw a very memorable meeting in Chard. The Lodge was honoured by the presence of WBro Mike Hole. He was celebrating the 40th Anniversary of his initiation into Prudence and Industry in 1984. 18 years ago Mike and his wife Deirdre emmigrated to New Zealand to start a new life. They knew no-one, but Masonry gave them a way in to meet people and help them settle in. He was very happy to combine a Christmas visit to see his family with attendance at the Lodge.
The lodge officers carried out a double passing ceremony with WBro Mike delivering the longest and most comprehensive explanation of the Tracing Board that I have ever heard. A phenomenal effort, the candidates were Bros Gary Huntley and Mark Davies.
He also performed a special Maori greeting to the Master on behalf of New Zealand Freemasons. A unique experience for those who were privileged enough to see it. Also during the meeting WBro Ian Walker presented two Grand Lodge Certificates to Bros Will Bullows and Jeremy White.
The Festive Board was a “White Table” with a number of guests joining us. The occasion was splendid and it was enhanced further by WBro Mike making a number of presentations to the lodge. Primary amongst these was a commemorative plate on a stand marking 100 years of NZ Grand Lodge which will be positioned appropriately in the Temple. Many splendid objects can be found in lodges, but how lovely it was to see what will become a legendary item actually being received.
There were also some personal gifts. The Master Mac Mackay and Secretary Paul Brice-Bullows were given a New Zealand baseball cap and DC Jeff Farley was presented with a NZ masonic tie and a NZ Fire Service badge as a nod to Jeff’s fire service here. There was much delight from the recipients and acclaim from diners.
A truly memorable night.
Alan Gitsham LIO Prudence and Industry
