The Old English Night at Ceres Lodge No. 6977 is always a great event, and that held on Wednesday the 8th of January 2020 was no exception.
Over 80-brethren (including 69-guests) were in attendance. Cumton Lodge, the daughter lodge of Ceres that meets at Castle Ashby House, was particularly well-represented. There was also a large contingent from Coritani Lodge, which meets at Daventry.
The meeting itself included a superb presentation by Bro Paul Needle, Lodge Organist, entitled A Ceres of Challenges.
Bro Paul Needle (left) with WBro Andrew Moody, Worshipful Master of Ceres Lodge No. 6977
Paul's highly entertaining and educative presentation ranged far and wide linking such subjects as:
- Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture and harvest (Demeter in Greek mythology) from which the Lodge derives its name
- Ceres, the dwarf planet
- Ceres, the origin of the word "cereal"
- Entertainment "series" including Dick Barton from the BBC Light Programme (the forerunner of BBC Radio 2). The Archers BBC Radio 4 series also received a mention, one that touched on the tragic death of Grace Archer, an event that aired on the same evening that ITV was launched.
Paul cleverly intertwined erudition with entertainment. His one-liners had the brethren in stitches more than once, and the short quiz at the end was great fun.
Those in attendance had no doubt that Paul's presentation represented a significant advancement in their Masonic knowledge and a most enjoyable one at that!
Following the meeting, a sumptuous meal of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding was enjoyed by all.
As is the tradition of the Lodge, which is a farmers' lodge, the beef was supplied by one of its members and carved in front of the expectant diners by the Ceres brethren. It proved as delicious as ever.
To top it all, the festive board included the usual hearty singing with a rousing rendition of To Be A Farmer’s Boy.
For the March meeting, Ceres have another guest speaker, WBro Ian Nelson, who will talk about his experiences of Virginia Freemasonry
In April, Ceres Lodge have an initiation.
Guests are always assured of a hearty Ceres welcome. Registered Mason website users can contact the Lodge Secretary, WBro Steve Peskett, using the information contained in the online copy of the Provincial Yearbook or Lodge Directory.