A Memorable Evening at Gordano Lodge
Brethren travelling from near and far gathered to share an evening of friendship and fraternal celebration with their brother and friend — our new Worshipful Master W.Bro Rob Collins Jnr— and to experience once again Gordano Lodge’s renowned hospitality. Both the lodge room and festive board were filled to overflowing, with extra rows of seats brought in to accommodate everyone.
The Installation Ceremony was exemplary in every respect, conducted by the outgoing Worshipful Master W.Bro David Parslow, the Director of Ceremonies W.Bro Andy Wade, and the Past Masters of the Lodge. The temple was filled to capacity, creating a truly special atmosphere befitting the occasion.
Many visiting brethren expressed their wish to take part in the ceremony, adding further significance to the evening for their friend and brother, our newly installed Worshipful Master.
A particular highlight was the presentation of the three sets of working tools, involving brethren from outside Gordano Lodge, a touching symbol of the esteem in which our new Master is held.
The assembled company included numerous brethren of very senior rank, alongside a great number of Entered Apprentices, Fellow Crafts, and Master Masons — clear testimony to the respect and affection our new Worshipful Master Rob enjoys throughout the Province, having now attained the Chair of King Solomon.
The Adair Club was also well represented, with many members attending in support, including its distinguished Chairman, Bro Tom Beasely.
The Festive Board, as ever, was filled to capacity, with even a waiting list for dining. The atmosphere was one of great joy and fellowship, filled with laughter, conversation, and good humour. A particularly entertaining moment came when the Worshipful Master’s gavel mysteriously “disappeared” in a light-hearted piece of Masonic mischief that delighted all present.
The Indian banquet that followed was of the highest quality — every plate was cleared, a sure sign of the brethren’s appreciation. It was, without doubt, a meal one could truly “sink one’s teeth into.”
All too soon, the evening drew to a close, with many remarking that they simply did not wish to leave. Once again, it was observed how unique Freemasonry is: where else can one find a room filled to the rafters with good men from all walks of life, united in friendship and brotherly love?
Looking ahead, next month Gordano Lodge will be conducting a Third Degree ceremony, to be worked by our new light-blue team. This will be the first time these enthusiastic young Masons take part in such a ceremony — a truly inspirational milestone not to be missed.
The evening will also celebrate Italy and our brethren there, concluding with a fine Italian banquet. This forms part of our new Worshipful Master’s inspiring initiative — “Freemasonry Universal: A Culinary Journey” — through which each ceremony will feature the cuisine of a different country. Judging by the outstanding success of its debut, this concept promises to be a resounding success throughout the year.
