A festive board, or dinner, normally follows a lodge meeting. While fairly formal with speeches and toasts it is marked by the sound of friendly discussion, sometimes singing and plenty of fun and laughter.
On the subject of formal Masonic toasts the format of these vary with the lodge but there is always a toast to the Queen and to The Grand Master followed by others which vary according to the ceremony. For instance when there is a new initiate he is toasted and often responds. In some lodges they sing the Initiates song.
By holding raffle draws the Ladies Association of Kitchener Lodge 3788 have raised a magnificent sum of £350 in support of Bolton Hospice. Our picture shows Rita Bradbury, the partner of the Worshipful Master, John Whitfield, presenting the cheque to Stephanie Lacaille, the Giving Manager of Bolton Hospice. Rita was accompanied by WBro Peter Jones, Bolton District Deputy Chairman.