December at 139

What a superb meeting at Perpetual Friendship in Bridgwater. With several stand-ins for sick brethren I can only heap praise on the quality of their ritual. MEGS, E comp Barry Woodside had invited himself to the meeting, more why later, and was proffered the Sceptre by MEZ, E Comp Barrie Crow, which MEGS thanked him for but returned it to Barrie for him to proceed with the evening.

E Comp John Night, being unavoidably absent at the Installation meeting was invested as DC.

The main event of the evening was to Exalt Bro Justin Meadows, a member of Perpetual Lodge No 135. First up was E Comp Gary Boon, J, who gave a near word perfect asking the question, it was clear and very well delivered, which set the standard for the rest of the working. Next up was E Comp Steve Dare, acting as H. Steve was given a week’s notice but you wouldn’t have thought so! To complete the first part of the ceremony MEZ was also spot on.

135 usee their almost original ritual and the expanded Mystical Lecture is broken into two parts, E Comp Norman Hucker undertook the first part and E Comp Jerry Hayes the second. Once again it was superbly given and so good to listen to.

After the ceremony MEGS congratulated Justin along with the Principals. The Treasurer being absent it fell on E Comp David Attwater to give his report. There followed the Almoner’s report on companions and their wives who are suffering ill health.

On the Second Rising MEGS reported that because of the Provincial Almoner’s unfortunate accident E Comp Tony Cooper and Comp Chris Dyer would be sharing John’s duties until he makes a full recovery. He then called on the DC to present Comp Chris Dyer to him. He then presented the MEGS Award pin to replace the collar jewel that he had been given previously, with suitable comments on his past and future activities looking after the Provincial Almoners duties in the south and west of the Province.

The chapter was closed in peace and harmony and and companions adjourned downstairs to enjoy the festive board.

Adrian Halliwell
Provincial Liaison Officer