On Friday 30th October a “Rule of 6” Meeting of the Lodge was held at Redditch Masonic Hall at 11:00 am to conduct the necessary administrative business of the Lodge.
Those present were the WM, IPM, Secretary, Charity Steward, Director of Music and our Grand Officer.
This was followed in the evening with what must be the most unique Trafalgar Night Mess held vis Zoom with some 46 Brethren in attendance which included our Mess President for the evening, W. Bro. Capt. David Swain, RN, PJGD. Metropolitan Grand Secretary, the Provincial Grand Master, The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent with several other Grand Officers and Visitors “Taking Passage” from as far afield as Holland.
All the normal formalities were conducted with the PGM responding to the Toast to “The Rulers Supreme and Subordinate” followed by the most eloquent and absorbing talk and slide presentation by W. Bro. David Swain on his 35 year distinguished Naval Career before him then proposed the toast to “The Immortal Memory.”
The WM, as is his want, in responding to his Toast focused on the Lodges Charitable affairs during the year and added his grateful thanks to both the Provincial Charity Fund and the MCF for their support. £1,250 had been donated to “Redditch Night Stop,” £1,000 to “Forgotten Feet,” and £1,000 to the 2022 Festival. The WM then auctioned a unique Special Boat Service China Mug which raised £500 and would be added to the £250 that the Lodge had already agreed to donate to the Special Boat Service Association.
A very fitting Response to the Visitors Toast was given by W. Bro. Tony Wright of Athol Lodge No. 74 from the neighbouring Province of Warwickshire
Everyone present agreed that the evening was a tremendous success, and all were invited to the next Trafalgar Night on Friday 29 October 2021 when it is hoped we will all sit down at the festive board in Redditch.
W. Bro. Ian M Fothergill
PPrSGW, LGR
Worshipful Master
