A ‘first’ for Easterford Lodge with a pathway Direct Applicant
Easterford Lodge land a pathway First Direct applicant on the anniversary of D Day
At the 6th June meeting of Easterford Lodge No. 2342, who meet at Kelvedon Masonic Hall, initiated their first pathway Direct Applicant, Mr Craig Stone into Freemasonry.
Craig applied through the Members Pathway Scheme last year and was directed towards Easterford, attending lodge functions and meeting the members.
History books show the Lodge meeting date of June 6th is known for being D Day, when the allied invasion of Normandy began the liberation of France in 1944; it is also this year the 80th anniversary of the event. This day was also identified as being a suitable date for the ceremony and even more poignant as Craig is currently a serving member of the British Armed Forces.
Peter Rice, Worshipful Master (WM), delivered an excellent ceremony supported by his officers. A special mention was made of Stewart Eastbrook, Director of Ceremonies, who delivered a faultless rendition of the preamble and charge to the initiate with only being given a few days’ notice.
Jeff Palmer, Provincial Grand Membership Officer (ProvGMO), headed a further six members of the Provincial
Membership Team in attendance, to support the candidate and experience the exquisite surroundings of Kelvedon Masonic Hall. These officers are working hard behind the scenes in guiding, motivating and uniting potential candidates with compatible lodges, which is adding to the success of the Pathway Scheme.
Following a vibrant festive board in which 50 dined to ‘Easterford’ Soup, Rib of Beef, Cheese and Biscuits with Port, the members of the Easterford Lodge were justly proud in welcoming Craig wishing him many enjoyable years in Freemasonry. Craig was equally honoured and responded by expressing his thanks to all for his remarkable day and very much looked forward to his time with the brethren.
Photos
Left (L-R): Mark Lawrence (DepProvMO, Essex North 2), Craig Stone, Peter Rice (WM), Jeff Palmer (ProvGMO)
Right (L-R) – Provincial membership team supporting the Bar! Daniel Broyd (Snr DepProvMO), Jeff Palmer (ProvGMO), Graham Maccallum (Group Membership Officer (GMO) - Colchester), Mark Lawrence (DepProvMO, Essex North 2), David Beardwell (Group Membership Officer (GMO) - Braintree)
