WBro Dr Michael Geoffrey Boden PJGD

After the opening of the lodge the RW Prov Grand Master of East Lancashire, Sir David Trippier RN, JP, DL, accompanied by a Provincial and District Deputation was received.  Upon taking the gavel Sir David introduced members of the Deputation and explained the format for the evening.
The Lodge Secretary, WBro Ireson, read a section of the Minute Book for September 1968 following which the Lodge was called off and Ladies were admitted to enjoy the celebrations.
Sir David, a good friend of WBro Boden PJGD, gave entertaining account of Michael’s life and Masonic career.  It was after studying medicine at Trinity College Dublin and working in Dublin as a hospital housemen that Michael met his wife Terri, to whom he has been married for 51 years.  Moving back to England, Michael became a General Practitioner based in Chadderton. His interests outside medicine are diverse and include rugby and supporting Oldham Athletic. He is also a registered Judge for the Pony Society, he studied Spanish at the Open University, is taking piano lessons and is a keen gardener.
Michael was initiated into Pendle Lodge 4703 by his father and has been elevated to high rank in both the Craft and Royal Arch.  Memorable mile stones include being appointed Senior Grand Warden for the Province in 1996 and a Grand Officer in 2001 but perhaps the most significant was his appointment as Chair at Hewlett Court, a position he held with distinction for over 6 years.
WBro Hewitt APGM, PJGD, was called upon to read an Illuminated Certificate which Sir David presented to Michael after which WBro Peter Rhodes PGAR presented a lapel badge.  Sir David, the Deputation and the Ladies then retired from the lodge which was then called back on to conclude its business.