On Monday December 1st the Brethren met at Alderson House for their last meeting of 2025. On the agenda? The Advancement of Bro.John Kisbey, one of our most recent APGM’s in the Craft. Being very low on our numbers we called upon the stalwarts of the Province and after the ‘shout out’, we were able to fill every office with comparative ease and enthusiasm.

Our Prov.GM, R.W.Bro. Andrew had asked me if “I’d mind” him occupying the Master’s chair to participate in the Advancement of Bro.John under the watchful eye of our freshly shaved Dep.PGM, Howard. This was of course an honour for myself and the Lodge. We had succeeded in putting together quite a team to Advance Brother John!

I can confidently say the ceremony was exemplary where the chair work was shared and enjoyed by all. W.Bro. John Owen, the current WM of the Silhill Lodge of MMM doing a stunning job of the signs and our very own stars were W.Bro. Hardip Ubhi, newly appointed Prov.ADC being given his first run out and W.Bro. Graham Masefield rendering his now classic theatrical, Olivier worthy performance as Master Overseer! In the words of a much loved and sorely missed Dep.Prov GM Ron Albutt, it was a truly ‘Marvellous’ and magical Mark evening. 

I must mention the wonderful work of young Dan Boulstridge who seems to go from strength to strength as the Province’s superstar itinerant Senior Deacon. This young Mason is a shining example to us all and exemplifies the importance of delivery of great ritual for the benefit of our candidates. And my goodness, does he enjoy himself.

The festive board was so convivial and enjoyed by all. There is a clear metamorphosis going on with even more magic in the air. That magic was performed by all of us as one. That teamwork and sharing is the real substantive “Magic of the Mark”.

We are a very lucky Lodge with the addition of yet another Craft APGM in addition to RW.Bro Roger Mac, W.Bro’s Peter Clarke (our SW), Nigel Hawkins, Howard Smith (Hon) and John Kisbey. And very soon…Matt Perkins! It’s fast becoming the APGM’s Lodge!! The future is becoming brighter and never has it been so important than to forge strong and inextricable links with the Craft.

So, on behalf of myself, my Principal Officers and all our members, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and wish you all a very Happy Christmas.

 

W.Bro.Martin Grahame-Dunn

PAGDC – WM