By Ed Thompson

On Saturday 20th June, Technical Lodge No.5666 performed a re-enactment of a First Degree Ceremony as its main business.

Due to holidays, other engagements and some ill health, numbers were slightly lower and some stand ins were required. These empty slots were filled in quickly and conscientiously: W Bro Phillip Daniels agreed to be Tyler; W Bro Keith Challis stood in as IPM; and W Bro Steve Berry acted as Secretary. Over a hundred years of combined masonic experience ensured proceedings were very smooth and they kept us younger officers on track. W Bro Allan McKay drew a wry smile when he was asked to be 'Candidate' by Lecture Master W Bro Jonathon Sykes. 

It was 6.30pm when Director of Ceremonies W Bro Rob Atkinson kicked off proceedings before handing over to the Worshipful Master Arash Vesali to formally open the Lodge. The Secretary then temporarily retired to ensure 'Mr McKay' had signed his 'necessary paperwork' and was in attendance. A report was given by Inner Guard Bro Paul Draper to the Junior Warden Bro Nandakumar Thekkootupisharam and the Secretary returned to his place after informing the Worshipful Master of 'Mr McKay's circumstances. 

The tyler than knocked and Bro Draper informed Bro Nanda of an alarm. 'Mr McKay' was then admitted in due and antient form before being conducted by Junior Deacon Malcom Hussain Gambles. 'Mr McKay' then became 'Brother McKay' as he was obligated by the Worshipful Master.

Next up was the main bodies of ritual. Bro John Hemingway informed Bro McKay of the three Lesser Lights in Freemasonry. I communicated the Secrets of an Entered Apprentice Freemason after which they were exchanged with the Wardens. Senior Warden Bro Adam Tunnicliffe invested Bro McKay with his Entered Apprentice apron - which was strange seeing Allan in that piece of kit!

Bro David Turner explained the significance of the North East Corner before Bro Draper temporarily absented his Inner Guard post to claim Bro Allan's attention to the Warrant of the Lodge. W Bro Sykes explained the symbolism behind the Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice before Bro Bill Turner-Bone delivered the Antient Charge. 

Bro McKay listened attentively to both Wardens when he learnt of the answers to the questions needed to advance to the next degree. He then retired and the re-enactment was complete. Due to the heat, it was quite a physically challenging ceremony but everyone persevered and completed their duties heartfully.

The only other major business that an announcement was made that our 'candidate' W Bro Allan McKay would be taking over the vacant office of Almoner - this was very well received by the Brethren in attendance.

The festive board was smaller than usual but no less enjoyable. The food was cooling and delicious, the Whiskey flowed generously and all Brethren left in great spirits at about 9.30pm, out to a light and pleasantly cooler Summer's night.