The Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Jack Price, and the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro Alex McLaren attended an excellent hosted meeting at St Chad's on 19th May, together with a Provincial Deputation and a multitude of interested visitors. Junior Brethren from the District, under the direction of the Provincial Grand Mentor, WBro Tony Costello, had held many practice sessions which enabled the evening to be a great success. The Brethren gave an explanation of the First Degree Ritual: A mock Candidate entered the room after the appropriate Alarm and at each stage of the ceremony there was a pause while a Brother narrated the action that had just taken place and gave an explanation for the reason why it had been done. The narration explained the historical basis of the workings,and gave an interpretation of the meaning behind the actions and words.

Provincial Grand Mentor, WBro Tony Costello

The audience seemed quite enthralled by the experience and, although there were a few knowing smiles and nods, many were suprised at the explanations given for ritual workings which they themselves had practised for many years but may not have fully understood. This learning forms a firm part of Mentoring which, as well as ensuring the care of welfare of the brethren, aims to bring understanding and knowledge to each of us in the form of entertaining and interesting papers, reading material and informative hosted meetings such as this. Better understanding of the ritual almost certainly enhances our masonic experience in the Lodge room, gives us the knowledge to help us teach others and heightens the enjoyment of all. Ritual performed with the knowledge of what it means becomes better delivered from within and is thus far better received by the Lodge and our candidates.

PGM with APGM and brethren who assisted with the ceremony

After the demonstration there was time for questions which highlighted the importance of us being able to attach our own interpretations to elements of the ritual, understand its development and being able to listen to expert opinion while at the same time questioning the validity of what we are told.

The PGM and Deputation retired with all of the brethren who worked the demonstration. These brethren were from a number of different Lodges within the District and the evening therefore also served to bring masons together from the various Lodges and enjoy that cameradery which is another element of the enjoyment of Freemasonry. Jack Price congratulated them all on the work carried out and added his own words of wisdom and experience on the importance of such teaching, comprehension, interpretation and appreciation.

PGM and APGM flanking the Master, WBro Raymond Lancaster

A "Buzzing" Festive Board followed the meeting which brought a fine conclusion to the evenings events. Nights like this around the Province will, in due course, make such a positive impact to the quality of our Freemasonry and support the mentoring of our members to great effect.

Jack Price sharing wine with the Master