Monday 21st October saw the Installation meeting at Temple of Uxbridge Lodge No. 7660 which was more than just another ceremony. It marked the Lodge’s 65th anniversary. But is the Lodge ready to retire? Not a chance. Here’s how the day unfolded.
The celebration began with the installation of W. Bro Darren Payne, SLGR (and now a Middlesex Mason), as the 55th Worshipful Master. Although the Lodge has occasionally recycled its WMs, Darren is no stranger to the chair of King Solomon and was expertly Installed by his predecessor, W. Bro Reg Austin, PPrGSuptWks, in front of 45 members and guests.
The ceremony was conducted with skill and reverence, setting the tone for the exciting year ahead.
W. Bro Darren wasted no time in appointing his chosen officers clearly outlining each of their responsibilities for the coming year. As a gesture of appreciation, he presented W. Bro Reg Austin with a beautifully engraved firing glass to commemorate his year in office.
Following the ceremony, the brethren gathered for a festive board, where they enjoyed a delightful meal filled with lively conversation and camaraderie. W. Bro Kevin Ogilvie of Harefield Lodge No. 7417 serenaded the new Worshipful Master with the Master’s Song, much to Darren’s delight.
During the evening over £300 was raised for charity through a well-supported raffle, which had so many prizes it took a considerable time to distribute them all
The evening concluded with the brethren singing a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” to Temple of Uxbridge Lodge in honour of its 65th year.
So, has the Lodge started collecting its pension? Absolutely not. Temple of Uxbridge Lodge continues to grow and will be initiating a new candidate at our next meeting in February.
Looking ahead there is a Ladies’ Festival planned in Bournemouth at the Marriott Highcliff Hotel from Friday 14th February. The weekend kicks off with an informal three-course dinner followed by music and dancing. On the Saturday there will be the formal Ladies’ Festival Gala, complete with cabaret, live music, and dancing until the early hours of Sunday.
For more information about Temple of Uxbridge Lodge or to book for the Ladies’ Festival, please visit our website: www.templeofuxbridge.org.uk.
This report was submitted by W. Bro. Pete Swattton, PProvJGD, Lodge Secretary and member of the Provincial Communications Team. If you would like to submit an article about your lodge meeting, please send it to news@pglm.org.uk
