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WBro John Hemingway celebrates 50 years at home

What is a Masonic Toast

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.

WBro John Hemingway celebrates 50 years at home

Northern

WBro John Hemingway PProvGSuptWks celebrated his 50th Masonic Birthday at home in Clitheroe when the Assistant Provincial Grand Master WBro John Farrington PSGD, the Worshipful Master of Harmony & Industry Lodge No.381 WBro Norman Jepson, accompanied by fellow Lodge Members WBro’s Frank Mellor, Jack Briggs and David Gamble, along with the East RibbleDistrict Chairman WBro Dave McGurty, all came to acknowledge this remarkable Masonic milestone of a true gentleman.
All were welcomed by Mrs Janet Hemingway, who having been presented with flowers from the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, seated everyone in the Lounge.
WBro Farrington began proceedings by presenting  WBro Hemingway with his illuminated certificate, which had been signed by the RW Provincial Grand Master Sir David Tripper, along with a personal letter of congratulations, again from Sir David.
Details from his data sheet were then shared by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, including his two years in the Chair, 1982 in Harmony and Industry Lodge No.381 and 2005 in Blakewater Lodge of Installed Masters No.9574. He has also served as Treasurer in 381 for a total of nineteen years!
Lodge Secretary WBro Frank Mellor had also brought along the Summons and Minutes from WBro Hemingway’s initiation on the 14th of March 1968. This brought back many happy memories for John and his fellow Lodge members, with John sharing moments from his 50 years in the Lodge.
WBro McGurty then presented WBro Hemingway with a 50 year Lapel badge on behalf of the District, a small token of appreciation for his contribution to Masonic life in the area.
Photographs were then taken before Mrs Janet Hemingway kindly invited everyone to enjoy refreshments of tea, coffee and (delicious) cakes. Grateful thanks to Janet for welcoming and looking after everyone so warmly.

Top: L to R, WBro’s Frank Mellor, Jack Briggs, David Gamble, WBro John Hemingway
WBro John Farrington APGM, WBro Norman Jepson WM 381, Mrs Janet Hemingway