It was a crisp autumn evening at the majestic Manchester Hall, its storied walls glowing under the soft golden light that bathed Bridge Street. Inside, brethren and guests gathered in anticipation of a unique event hosted by the historic Lodge of Silent Temple No. 126. The evening promised a demonstration of the Craft degrees by the newly formed East Lancashire Level Club, a fresh initiative bringing together young and enthusiastic Freemasons from the Province.
The grandeur of Manchester Hall added a sense of occasion. The lodge room’s Corinthian pillars and intricate wood panelling reflected centuries of Masonic heritage. At the same time, the eager buzz of conversation hinted at the modern energy brought by the Level Club.
A Warm Welcome
The Acting Worshipful Master of the Lodge of Silent Temple, WBro Philip Titterton (the Acting Junior Warden for the Province of East Lancashire 2024), opened the evening with precision and warmth. After the Lodge was duly opened, he welcomed members, visitors, and the East Lancashire Level Club brethren.
“This evening is about celebration,” WBro PhilipTitterton said. “We celebrate the light of Freemasonry passing to a new generation. Hosting the East Lancashire Level Club for this demonstration is a privilege, showcasing their passion for our Craft.”
A round of applause filled the room as the members of the Level Club took their places, their excitement palpable.
The Demonstration Begins: The Initiation
The Initiation Ceremony’s first demonstration began with a solemnity that captivated the audience. The Junior Deacon of the Lodge of Silent Temple, Bro JP McCrosson, played the WM, delivering the signs and tokens of the initiation ceremony with a mix of reverence and wonder, embodying the journey of a man seeking light in Masonry.
Every detail was executed with precision. It was then the turn of Bro. Aaron Garner, the Chairman of the ELLC, then delivered an encapsulating demonstration of the First Degree Tools.
The brethren of the Lodge of Silent Temple noted how seamlessly the Level Club members blended traditional ritual with their youthful energy. It was a testament to their dedication and the guidance they had received from experienced mentors.
The Passing to Fellow Craft
After a short adjournment, the brethren reconvened to demonstrate the Second Degree, the Passing. The candidate, now a Fellow Craft, was led through the mysteries and symbolism of this vital step in his Masonic journey.
The Lodge of Silent Temples’s inner guard, Bro Lyle Davis, shone during the perambulation, and his delivery of secrets of the second degree was given in a very theatrical manner and captured the attention of every brother present.
After that, Brother Tim Poole delivered the Working Tools, earning nods of approval from the more seasoned brethren.
The Raising to Master Mason
The climax of the evening came with the demonstration of the Third Degree, the Raising. The solemnity and drama of the ceremony filled the room with an almost tangible sense of reverence.
Bro Lyle Da\vis again jumped into action and ably delivered the signs of a Master Mason to the candidate, moving through the symbolic journey with an emotional depth that impressed even the most experienced Masons.
The Deputy Chairman of the East Lancashire Level Club, Bro Andy Robson, delivered the third-degree tools as worked in his Mother lodge, The Lodge of Union No. 268
The silence during the symbolic raising was profound, broken only by the heartfelt applause at its conclusion.
Reflections and Festive Board
As the Lodge was closed, the Worshipful Master of the Lodge of Silent Temple expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Level Club. “You have reminded us all of the beauty and depth of our rituals,” he said. “The future of Freemasonry is indeed in good hands.”
The evening transitioned to the Festive Board, where the camaraderie of the Craft truly shone. Traditional toasts were made, including one to the East Lancashire Level Club, to which their members responded with humility and enthusiasm.
“We are deeply honoured to have been invited by the Lodge of Silent Temple,” Bro Andy Robson said. “Our mission is to build a bridge between tradition and the future, and tonight has shown us that the two can coexist beautifully.”
A Night to Remember
As the evening drew close, brethren lingered to share stories, exchange ideas, and forge new friendships. The demonstration showcased the Level Club’s skills and reinforced Freemasonry’s timeless principles: unity, brotherhood, and the pursuit of knowledge.
For the Lodge of Silent Temple No. 126 and the East Lancashire Level Club, the evening was a triumph—a perfect blend of tradition and renewal set against the inspiring backdrop of Manchester Hall.
For more information about the ELLC, please visit: https://ellc.uk/
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