TFJ welcomes Geoff
The latest addition to the ranks of Thomas Firth Jackson Council No 202 is Geoff Waters.
 
He was admitted at a daytime meeting held in the somewhat bijou masonic hall in Grange over Sands. The town is so called as there is also a Grange in Borrowdale and many years ago the local vicar got annoyed with his mail finding its way to Borrowdale. At that time the principal route to Grange was over the estuary of Morecambe Bay via the sands when the tide was out. He started the habit of getting his post addressed to the Grange over the sands to stop the confusion and eventually it became officially Grange over Sands. And to complete your knowledge both Granges are said to derive their names from a corruption of an old word for granary.
Geoff Waters and Brian Ogden
Meanwhile back in the masonic hall! Brian Ogden, master of the council, undertook the admission of Geoff into the order in fine fashion.
 
After a quick re-arrangement of the lodge settings, a lodge of Grand Tilers of Solomon was convened with Geoff Catterall stepping into the principal chair. Brian was not resting on his laurals however and was employed in the important role of Captain of the Host.
Chris Butterfield, Geoff Waters, Brain Ogden, Terry Pearson and Paul Snape.
This was a double ceremony with Terry Pearson being the candidate on the floor as Geoff watched on until called upon to take the obligation. Geoff Catterall was assisted in explaining the signs to both candidates by Paul Snape who I have to report did alright!
Outside the front of the hall, are; Marc Goldsworthy and Brian Ogden.
On the evening Chris Butterfield was declared master elect for the installation meeting being held at Dalton in Furness Masonic Hall in June (full details of this event will be circulated)
The majesty of Morecambe Bay (this is not a b&w photo!)
It proved an enjoyable meeting of well delivered ritual and good company.
 
On leaving hall in daylight the grey, blustery, and gloomy weather did not prevent the view over Morecambe Bay as the tide rushed in during the walk back to the car being an impressive one.
 
Report and Photos from Dave Sear