On October 10, 2024, the historic Goulburn Lodge Room at Manchester Hall played host to an exceptional event—the Grand Installation of the East Lancashire Provincial Grand Officers’ Chapter 3747. This highly anticipated annual ceremony was attended by nearly 90 Royal Arch Masons, including members from around the Province, underscoring its significance in the Masonic calendar.
During the evening, EComp Henri Lyons, PGStB, was installed as the 1st Principal, accompanied by EComp Colin Farrow, PProvGSN, as the 2nd Principal, and EComp David Dunn, PGStB, as the 3rd Principal. The installation was carried out with the traditional elegance that marks such ceremonies, ensuring the ritual’s gravity and dignity were preserved.
The presence of Most Excellent Grand Superintendent (MEGS) Robert Frankl, along with his Deputy Paul Bowen, the Second and Third Provincial Grand Principals Professor Tony Freemont and David Hudson, as well as all five Assistants to the Provincial Grand Principals, further added to the grandeur of the occasion. Their attendance reinforced the importance of the Chapter in the fabric of Freemasonry in East Lancashire.
Following the formalities of the installation, the three newly installed Principals were hosted by the MEGS for a drinks reception. This was followed by a lively and vibrant Festive Board—a traditional meal that celebrates Masonic fellowship. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie, as attendees shared in the pride and joy of the new Principals.
One of the evening’s highlights was the presence of seven young members of the Palatine Chapter, who are also members of Old Mancunians with Mount Sinai Lodge 3140, the same Lodge as EComp Henri Lyons. These young Masons were there to support Henri, who, as Lodge Royal Arch Representative (LRAR), has introduced more than 30 members from his Lodge to the Royal Arch over the years. Their attendance signified both Henri’s lasting impact on Freemasonry in the area and the younger generation’s enthusiasm for the Craft.
The evening also carried philanthropic significance. The Chapter, already a Grand Patron of the East Lancashire 2026 Festival, made an additional donation of £3,747. This generous contribution brought the Province closer to achieving the Festival’s target of £2.4 million, a goal that underscores the charitable spirit at the heart of Freemasonry.
As the Province looks forward to another year under the leadership of the newly installed Principals, there is great anticipation for the continued positive impact of East Lancashire Provincial Grand Officers’ Chapter 3747. The Chapter’s ongoing commitment to both ritual excellence and charitable contributions makes it a cornerstone of East Lancashire Masonry.
Wishing the new Principals and Chapter members a successful and fulfilling year ahead.