Monday 24th of June saw Phoenix Lodge host the last Provincial visit of this Masonic year. The night was bitter sweet, commencing with emotional and heartfelt eulogies for Worshipful Brothers Paul Casey (Treasurer) and Bryan James (Worshipful Master). Both of whom recently passed to the Grand Lodge above.
The southeast area Assistant Provincial Grandmaster Chris Bayliss took the Chair for a short while and emphasised that the Membership Challenge is very much the priority for Lodges. A historic Lodge such as Phoenix will likely always attract new members. However, 30 years ago its membership stood at 130 whilst today it is 50. Sadly this is reflective of many Lodges.
Worshipful Brother James King took the chair of King Solomon, and along with his team, delivered a very competent 1st degree demonstration to a crowded temple.
Of particular merit was an outstanding First Degree charge, delivered by Brother Jack Collins (Dr) who is their current Senior Deacon.
Item 6 on the agenda for the evening was a proposition that a sum of £2000 be taken from the Lodge charity box and transferred to the 2027 festival Fund. The vote was in favour and a symbolic cheque was duly presented to Assistant Provincial Grandmaster Chris Bayliss. Chris congratulated Phoenix Lodge on their efforts towards the 2027 festival, pointing out that they are now very close to receiving their silver honorific.
The 22-strong Provincial team Joined Phoenix Lodge members, and other visitors, for what was an excellent dinner with great company. In total 67 dined.
The Masonic “cash extraction”, in the name of charity, continued with Worshipful Brother Neil Tiffin raising a further £261.85 from those attending, on behalf of his partner Lisa McCaw. Lisa will be running 5K in the “Run for Life” on behalf of cancer charities.
A big thank you to Phoenix Lodge for their wonderful hospitality and for hosting a wonderful evening.