Brethren attending the regular meeting of Socrates Lodge No. 373 held on Monday the 16th of October 2023 at the Peterborough Masonic Centre witnessed a wonderful occasion in the Lodge's bicentenary year, with over 120 attending a very special evening.
On this occasion the Lodge was honoured by the presence of the Assistant Grand Master, RWBro Steven Varley, accompanied by the Past Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, WBro Edward Goodchild. The event was doubly special as it marked the Assistant Grand Master's first visit to the Province since his appointment
The Brethren present then greeted The Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Mark Constant, followed by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, VWBro Charles Bennett PGSwdB, and the Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, WBro Mike Caseman-Jones SGD and WBro Tim Almond PSGD. The Lodge was also honoured by the presence of RWBro Max Bayes, Past Provincial Grand Master of the Province.
A short history of the Lodge was read most eloquently by the Lodge's Assistant Director of Ceremonies WBro Brian Bennett. You can find the History HERE
The Deputy Grand Secretary, VWBro Graham Redman, then read the wording of the Lodge's new Bicentenary Warrant at the conclusion of which the Assistant Grand Master presented it to Worshipful Master WBro Brian Gebbels PPJGW, for his safe keeping. The AGM wished the Lodge and its members health and happiness for the next 100-years.
Following the presentation, the Provincial Grand Chaplain, WBro Aaron Day, gave an oration in his own inimitable style, sharing his thoughts on Socrates the philosopher, together with the longstanding traditions and benefits of our wonderful institution. This was followed by the Patriarchal Blessing and Hymn of Thanksgiving.
The Assistant Grand Master, RWBro Steven Varley, then addressed the Brethren, congratulating the members of Socrates Lodge on their wonderful longevity and associated history.
In conclusion, the Master of the Lodge, WBro Brian Gebbels thanked all those involved in making the bicentenary year and its celebrations so special.
He gave special thanks to the Assistant Grand Master and his Past Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies for their visit. He also thanked the Provincial Grand Master, his Executive, and the rest of the Provincial team for their support throughout the year.
The Festive Board that followed the meeting was enjoyed by all of the 120 brethren who attended and it was a wonderful evening.
The PGM acknowledged the County Rugby Union playing career of the AGM and presented RWBro Steven with a Saints shirts as a memory of his visit.
We add our congratulations to all the members, past and present, of Socrates Lodge No. 373. We have no doubt that the Lodge will enjoy many more happy years to come.
For more photos from the event click here to view the gallery.