Tonight, Ed Thompson and I travelled to Ridings Tablers Lodge in Beverley. The Lodge was opened in due form, and once the necessary Masonic business had been concluded, we were treated to an excellent talk by Worshipful Brother Barry Longstaff, assisted by three members of the Ridings Tablers Lodge.

The presentation focused on the cyphers and symbols of the Third Degree Tracing Board, often known as the Harris Board. Every element of this beautiful board was interpreted in turn, revealing meanings and lessons that many of us overlook in regular when looking at this tracing board.

One thing that stood out for me and I found particularly interesting were the three small masonic characters. At first glance, they look like the letter ‘L’ facing backwards, but they are, in fact, the cypher of the letter ‘C’. In our Masonic symbolism, these represent chalk, clay, and charcoal.

But what do they truly mean to us as Freemasons?

• Chalk reminds us to keep our words clear and our intentions pure, just as chalk marks are easily read yet easily wiped away. It teaches humility in our speech, knowing that words should leave no stain upon others.
• Clay represents our mortal frame, soft enough to be moulded but strong enough to build with. It reminds us that we are always being shaped by our experiences, and we too have the power to shape and support those around us.
• Charcoal may seem dark, but it burns with inner fire. It symbolises the hidden strengths within us, glowing steadily beneath the surface, ready to bring warmth and light when needed.

Together, these simple elements teach a profound lesson. As Masons, we are called to mark our words with care, shape our deeds with integrity, and let our inner light burn brightly for the good of others.

Worshipful Brother Barry Longstaff’s talk was a welcome reminder that even the smallest symbols carry meaning if we take the time to look a little deeper.

- Anthony James (WM)

Saturday evening at Technical Lodge No. 5666 was nothing short of extraordinary, as we gathered to honour WBro Keith Challis and celebrate an incredible 50 years of dedicated service to Freemasonry. It was a night full of warmth, reflection, and deep appreciation for a man whose Masonic journey has inspired so many. 
The evening began promptly at 6:30pm with the lodge being opened in due and ancient form. WBro Paul Hillary read a portion of the ancient charges, then the minutes of our last meeting were confirmed. Brethren handled the initial reports swiftly and efficiently, allowing the lodge to be ‘called off’, an aspect of ritual not often witnessed, but one that added an extra level of significance to the evening.

With the room now prepared for non-masons to enter, we welcomed Keith’s family and invited guests into the lodge. Keith sat on my right as our honoured brother, and his wife Jenny was escorted onto the dais and seated next to him. Pride lit up his face having the rest of his family beside him, a very proud husband and father indeed. Their presence brought a unique energy to the proceedings and clearly reflected the deep respect Keith holds both within and beyond the Craft. 

What followed was a moment I’ll never forget, and one I believe everyone present will remember fondly. WBro Eddie Wildman conducted a heartfelt and humorous interview with Keith, delivered with all the finesse of a seasoned professional. It was more than just a conversation; it was a rich tapestry of memories, achievements, and personal reflections that charted Keith’s journey through life and Masonry. WBro Wildman then presented Keith with his well-earned 50-year certificate, marking the moment with dignity and genuine warmth.
Keith responded graciously, offering thanks to all who had come to share in the evening. And to all those who worked hard in making it happen. His words were simple but sincere, perfectly capturing the humble nature of a man who has given so much without ever seeking recognition.

After the presentation, Keith’s guests and relatives were asked to retire while we concluded the remaining business of the evening. The lodge was then ‘called on’, and once business was concluded, the lodge was closed in due form.
The celebrations continued at the festive board, where our Director of Ceremonies led me in as Worshipful Master, accompanied by Keith, the man of the hour. Once again, Luke and his team excelled, it had already been a very busy day for Luke, serving 82 diners before our meeting. Ours added another 62. Well done, Luke, a busy day indeed.

WBro Mike Cheeseman then delivered a wonderful slideshow presentation that highlighted key moments from Keith’s life and Masonic journey. It was both informative and uplifting, giving everyone present further insight into the man behind the apron. Keith, ever the gentleman, responded with gratitude and humour, once again thanking everyone for making the evening so special.
I shared a welcome message, followed by a personal poem I had written and read aloud, penned especially for Keith and later presented as a framed keepsake. It added another layer of emotion to an already heartfelt occasion.
Given the presence of non-Masonic guests, we kept the toasts brief, just two, to the King and to the Grand Master, ensuring the evening remained inclusive and welcoming to all.

In every sense, it was a fitting tribute to a well-respected Brother. WBro Keith Challis’s 50 years in Freemasonry have left a lasting legacy, and Saturday evening was a powerful reminder of the values, friendship, and sense of community that lie at the heart of our Craft.

- Anthony James (WM)

This evening’s ceremony was to exalt Dr Nanderkumar into the Technical Chapter. I have known Nanda for over 25 years, and I am sure Nanda will be an excellent Companion and a credit to the Chapter. The enactment of the Sojourners’ journey back from captivity and their eventual discovery was excellently performed.  The story was narrated by E. Comp. Steve Berry in his role as Scribe E, providing clarity and context throughout. His narration guided us through the unfolding events and seamlessly connected the narrative to the ritual being performed.

All participants gave an exemplary performance which I am sure Companion Nanda will remember for some time to come.

 During the meeting, our Lodge Secretary, Mark Cusack, kindly announced that I had recently been honoured with an active Provincial role. On Saturday 10th May, at York Racecourse, I was appointed Provincial Grand Standard Bearer… an incredibly proud and humbling moment in my Masonic journey. The support and kind words from the Brethren were deeply appreciated.
A particularly humorous moment came courtesy of our Lecture Master, W. Bro. Jonathan Sykes, who affectionately referred to me as the “Artful Dodger.” He reminded everyone that I’d somehow managed to avoid delivering the last two Third Degree obligations. He also pointed out that, as the newest recipient of Active Provincial Honours, I should have offered official greetings on behalf of the Province… but as Worshipful Master, I can’t very well give greetings to myself! Another duty, it seems, successfully dodged. His good-natured teasing brought much laughter and added a light-hearted charm to the evening.
The night concluded with a fun and well-attended Festive Board. The room was filled with laughter, conversation, and the sound of glasses raised in toasts, to the King, to our Grand Master, and to our newly initiated Brother, who has now taken his first steps into Freemasonry. Paul Hillary once more delivered the Masonic Circle with a polished performance that reflected both his deep understanding of the ritual and his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Our candidate was received into Freemasonry with open arms and genuine warmth. Brothers Turner-Bone, Sykes, and Chapman led us in the traditional parting song, Happy to Meet Again, leaving the hall echoing with unity and good cheer. It was, once again, an honour and a privilege to preside over such a meaningful evening. Nights like this remind me why we do what we do, and why Technical Lodge continues to be a place of friendship, tradition, and brotherhood.

- Anthony James (WM)