A Team Visit for the Installation Ceremony of the New Supreme Ruler
for Warrington Conclave No119 – Tuesday 1st October 2024
 
The installation ceremony of a new Supreme Ruler is always a historic and momentous occasion for every conclave and its members; and it is made even more momentous when the ceremony is graced by the presence of the Provincial Supreme Ruler, along with his esteemed entourage of officers, his Arch of Steel, and distinguished guests who make up his Provincial Team.
After opening the conclave its present Supreme Ruler Wy Bro David Berrington welcomed a procession headed by Right Worthy Brother John Charles Bicknell Provincial Grand Supreme Ruler of the Provincial Grand Conclave of West Lancashire along with the Deputy Provincial Grand Supreme Ruler Wy Bro Frank Hatton and their team of acting officers.
The Rulers
The Supreme Ruler offered the gavel of the lodge to the Provincial Grand Supreme Ruler as it his right to rule any conclave within his province, but with his high status comes experience and he suitable responded by saying “he was here to enjoy himself and was looking forward to watching a well-rehearsed and dignified ceremony” as he swiftly handed the gavel back
The Supreme Ruler then proceeded to thank the brethren for the support that they had given him during his two years in office before inviting conclave stalwart Rt.Wy Bro David Knight to take the chair for the Installation ceremony of Wy Bro Raymond Whitticombe.
 
There followed a faultless ceremony of Installation as the new Supreme Ruler was installed into the chair of the conclave by Rt Wy Bro David Knight in a very dignified and sincere manner ably supported by V Wy Bro Brian Potter who delivered an exemplary explanation of the weapons of a secret monitor.
Provinicial Team
Following the installation; Director of Ceremonies Wy Bro Mike Hamilton then ensured continued compliance as the meeting reverted back to the business highlighted on the summons.
Practice makes Perfect

The first business on the summons for our new Supreme Ruler proved to be a very pleasant task as he presented cheques on the Conclaves behalf to the Provincial Grand Supreme Ruler; who announced that the following charities were to benefit from the conclaves generosity:

  • St Rocco’s Hospice – a regular recipient of the conclaves support £200
  • Stick n Steps – supporting children with cerebral palsy - £200
  • Aintree Hospital – who have supported conclave brethren in need - £200
 
In addition to these donations the conclave is hopeful that later in the year some “matched funding” from Grand Conclave can further benefit these remarkable charities
Those in attendance

The brethren then retired to the social board to enjoy a superb meal of:

  • Broccoli & White Stilton Soup
  • Braised Beef & Dumplings with Seasonal Vegetables
  • Chocolate Tote
  • Tea & Coffee
 
Following the meal, the Provincial Grand Supreme Ruler responded to the toast where her congratulated the conclave on a wonderful ceremony and highlighted how two conclave members were to receive the high honour of Grand Rank at the next meeting of Grand Conclave at Mark Masons Hall London in November.
Cheers
The new Supreme Rulers response allowed him to report “That he was also impressed by the impeccable manner in which he had been installed by Rt Wy Bro David Knight and by the hard work of the conclave in putting the ceremony together, and that he hoped  that Warrington Conclave would continue to thrive under his rule.”
 
During the festive board; the director of ceremonies conducted a “Chorley Swindle” which raised £105 which when added to the charity collection will be allocated for future distribution towards worthy charities.
Festive Board
This ceremony highlighted that Warrington Conclave and the Order of Secret Monitor continues to uphold its tradition for being one of the friendliest of orders and is certainly an order that prospective candidates should consider if they are looking to further their masonic involvement.
 
We can guarantee that there will not be any “fireworks” at our next meeting where you will certainly be made welcome, so why not join us on:
Tuesday 5th November 2024 – 18.30hrs
Warrington Masonic Hall, Winmarleigh St, Warrington
 
Words and Photographs courtesy of:
Bob Williams – Past Provincial Grand Guide
Warrington Conclave 119