On Sunday, 7th September, members of the Freemasons, along with their friends and families from across the Southern Area of East Lancashire, gathered to hold their annual Christmas Carol Service. The event took place at Albert House, Ashton Masonic Hall. The ceremony began with WBro Revd. Canon Richard Hawkins delivered the opening prayers and explained the service format – twelve readings reflecting the festive spirit, interspersed with traditional hymns.
The readings were:
- Genesis 3:8-15: The Fall
read by Walter
- Isaiah 9:2,6-7: Christ’s Birth and Kingdom Are Foretold
read by Tracey
- A Poem ‘Eddie’s Service’ by Rudyard Kipling.
read by Mandy
Hymn – O Little Town of Bethlehem
- Micah 5:2-4: The Messiah Will Be Born in Bethlehem
read by Steve
- Luke 1:26-38: The Annunciation
read by Angela
- A Poem “If You Came in the Spring” by Thom M. Shuman
read by Pam
Hymn – Away in a Manger
- Luke 2:1-7: The Birth of Jesus
read by Michael
- Luke 2:8-16: The Shepherds Go to the Manger
read by Eliana
- A Poem “Noel” by J.R.R. Tolkien
read by Richard
Hymn – While Shepherds Watched
- Matthew 2:1-11: The Wise Men Are Led by the Star to Jesus
read by Naill
- John 1:1-14: The Word Made Flesh read by Richard
- A Poem ‘BC:AD’ by UA Fanthorpe, also read by Richard
The Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Southern Area, Wes Marchant, concluded the Service with a personal address to all present, thanking them for making the afternoon a success and wishing them continued enjoyment of the proceedings. He also thanked everyone who made the event possible for their hard work in organising it.
David and Pam Thomas
The service was followed by a festive meal, pulling crackers, and catching up with friends. The great thing about such events is the opportunity to meet with brethren from across the area and with their families and friends. At times like this, we miss those who are unable to join us, and our thoughts are with everyone who could not make it. This year, WBro Don Roberts, a long-time key organiser of this annual event, was unable to attend due to poor health; however, many of his family were there. Among them was his great-granddaughter, Eliana, who delivered a reading, a moment that delighted the audience and showcased the event’s appeal across generations. Many will have missed others who could not make it due to illness, and we wish them all a speedy recovery and hope to see them in the new year. As always, the event raised money for local charities and other good causes.
Above is a random selection of photographs from the event; additional photos are available on this website.
Below is a rare photograph of the Area Communications Officer (who usually spends his time on the other side of the camera) and the Area Chairman, Nigel Johnson.
Other officers of the Southern Area team in attendance were:
Walter Spence, Deputy Chairman,
David Thomas, Secretary
Michael Porter, Membership Officer
Stephen Ridgway, Mentor
Bruce Robbins, Communications Officer