On Wednesday 22nd January, Knowsley Lodge No.4661 marked a momentous milestone – the celebration of its centenary. Steeped in history and tradition, the evening brought together brethren, friends, and families who gathered to honour the past and look forward to a flourishing future.
The Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Robert Ian Frankl, joined the brethren to lead the celebrations, accompanied by a provincial deputation, which included the Very Worshipful Deputy Provincial Grand Master, John Griffin, a member of the Lodge, and Dr. Simon Archer, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master and an honorary member of the Lodge.
The Provincial Grand Secretary, WBro Andrew Holland, read aloud the Centenary Warrant, a profound reminder of the Lodge’s legacy and the enduring commitment of its members.
The Provincial Grand Chaplain, WBro Russell Conn, gave a heartfelt oration where he paid tribute to the Lodge’s distinguished history and its enduring contributions to Freemasonry.
Drawing on the rich heritage of the Knowsley name, WBro Conn reflected on its deep ties to English history, highlighting the Stanley family’s pivotal role since 1485 and their lasting influence within Freemasonry. He honoured the past Provincial Grand Masters from the Earl of Derby lineage, underscoring their exceptional dedication and service.
WBro Conn emphasised that Freemasonry is a tradition and a transformative journey. It provides a platform for self-improvement, where individuals evolve into confident leaders both in the Lodge and in the community. He celebrated the fraternity’s commitment to moral virtues and service, praising recent strides in openness and community engagement, including the Pathway initiative and charitable outreach by the Masonic Charitable Foundation.
In closing, WBro Conn urged all brethren to honour Freemasonry’s legacy by embracing progress while upholding its timeless principles. He extended heartfelt wishes for the continued success and prosperity of Knowsley Lodge, encouraging its members to carry forward its proud tradition of peace, love, and harmony.
Following this, the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master took pleasure in promoting WBro David James to the esteemed rank of Past Provincial Grand Junior Warden in recognition of his years of service to Knowsley Lodge and Freemasonry as a whole.
A lively and memorable social board followed the formal proceedings, where friends and families celebrated the Lodge’s achievements in a joyful atmosphere filled with laughter.
A highlight of this was that, in his closing remarks, the Worshipful Master, WBro Christopher Nealon, had the pleasure of presenting the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master with an engraved bottle of port to commemorate the occasion and thank him for supporting the Lodge. The Worshipful Master also presented the Provincial Grand Master’s wife, Fiona, with flowers to thank her for joining them in the celebrations.
We wish Knowsley Lodge No.4661 every success and happiness as it embarks on its second century!
