March 2018 Meeting

Our March Regular meeting took place at the Maidstone Masonic Centre on 23rd March 2018.

38 Brethren gathered to witness the “Passing” (i.e. taking the second degree) of Bro. Nick Marinov by our Worshipful Master, Paul Constable.

Peter Malcolm and Nik
Peter, Malcolm and Nik

The meeting began in a somewhat unusual manner as our Organist John Fry had been admitted to hospital with a kidney complaint.  The opening Ode was therefore sung “Acapella” but was surprisingly tuneful given the limited vocal talent of most of the membership.

 

The Almoner John Sampson assured the Brethren that Bro. John was responding to treatment and was keeping us appraised of his progress via Social Media.  We all wish John (F) a speedy recovery.

Moving on with the Agenda, The Secretary Bob Burns rose to deal with the Minutes of the last meeting.  He informed the meeting that the only comment he had received was from (a suspiciously anonymous) Brother who apparently claimed that they were “the best minutes he had ever seen” ;-))

Nik’s answers to the questions leading from the 1st to 2nd degrees were word perfect, as was the rendition of the 2nd Degree Working Tools by Peter Jacobs and the Explanation of the 2nd Degree Tracing Board by Mike Spencer.

One innovation later in the evening was the introduction of a 4th “Rising” by the WM.  This was blamed on the IPM who was apparently asleep…

Alms raised during the meeting were £101.30.

Peter, Roger and Mark, Beer quality control testing!

The meeting was followed by a thoroughly enjoyable Festive Board at which a further £233.00 was raised.  The Bottle Raffle was won by Bob Burns (again…).

Responding to the Toast to the Guests and Visitors, WBro. Tony Hayward of the White Horse of Kent Lodge No 8784 thanked the Brethren for an enjoyable meeting, a sumptuous Festive Board and for their warm and sincere welcome.  He expressed the wish of all the Guests and Visitors that they might enjoy a similar occasion in the not too distant future.