A busy first evening of the new season at RPL 291

As the new season gets under way the members of the Rural Philanthropic Lodge had a busy night to begin with, a Provincial Fraternal visit with APGM Russ woodland leading the team, Eulogies, a Passing, a Grand Lodge certificate, Festival Jewels to award and a WTC pin.

The evening began on a somber note as two stalwarts of the Lodge had passed the GL above in July, Eulogies were given to Mike Baker and Alva Excell to commemorate their lives.

Then Russ and 9 members of the team were escorted into the Lodge and the meeting progressed to Pass Max Feeney to a FC, which the brethren of RPL did with aplomb! Russ commenting how good the ceremony was at the FB.

John Chinn the Charity Steward then asked Russ if he would present several Festival Jewels to members of the Lodge, including the first ever Grant Patron Jewel to Leigh Yule, who had only joined the Lodge from Scotland Last Year.

Russ with the help of Mike Beasley from the Adair Club presented a Working Tools Challenge pin to Warren Beavis.

Russ being made to work for his supper then presented a Grand Lodge certificate to Paul Hulbert, in Russ’s usual style.

Russ also gave a talk, updating the Lodge on the Membership Challenge, whilst saying it was a thriving Lodge, it still had its difficulties. with aging membership and a resignation. RPL is up to the challenge with a new Initiate planned for March a two prospective members to ballot for. As well as two new joining members, one from St Bernards Lodge Minehead, who handed their warrant back a few years ago.

Words and Pictures Ian Evans.