Hesketh Conclave 309 
Wednesday 23rd February 2022
 
Now that the Masonic season is getting back into full swing, it was felt the time was right for ceremonial to start in earnest within the Division.
 
Sovereigns Unity had got the ball rolling with the Divisional KHS in January and now in February it was Hesketh Conclaves turn to start their return to normality.
Mike Walker, Ron Gates, Jonathan and Jon Measures with Doug Fletcher
And what a fine start they made, what could be better than installing a new Worthy Knight, it is what conclaves are for!
Add into the mix that the new knight was the son of our Eusebius E. Kt. Jon Measures and you begin to get the picture.
Wayne Pearson, Mike Walker, Ron Gate MPS, Jonathan and Jon Measures,
Doug Fletcher and Derek Alty
Jonathan was conducted within the Conclave, in an exemplary fashion, by P.Kt. John Anderson, and in due course admitted to the Order by the Puissant Sovereign, P.Kt. Ron Gates. There was a very special moment when Jon (Snr), invested Jonathan (Jnr) with the regalia of the degree. It was clear that the time spent in lockdown(s) had been well spent and the Marshal Derek Alty had a pleasant expression on his face as we came to the end of the ceremony. Derek finished it in style with his explanation of the cross and other symbolism used on the banner, along with a few other bits thrown in for good, if you will excuse the pun, measure.
 
Our principal guest on the night was P. Kt. Doug Fletcher, Divisional Eusebius, and he assisted the Hesketh team, by filling the role of Junior General due to Vic Parker being under the weather. Get well soon Vic.
Jonathan and Jon
Once the remaining admin was out of the way there was a quick photo shoot for this report, before we went up to the dining room, where along with a little (very welcome) liquid refreshment, a delightful meal of Pate,’ Chicken Curry (with all the trimmings) and Lemon Meringue Pie was served by Sharon and her pleasant efficient staff. There was a very satisfying buzz around the festive board tables, the knights were clearly enjoying themselves.
 
Speeches were short and to the point and in no time at all we were off home in plenty of time to chill out, reflecting on another great masonic evening, before retiring for the night.
 
The Red Cross Order is open to Subscribing Craft Masons who are also Subscribing in the Royal Arch Masons. Contacts are available in most Masonic Halls or via the Divisional Recorder. You are sure of a good night out with yet another important integral message within our rituals.
 
Hesketh Conclave is currently meeting a Chorley on the last Wednesdays in February, April and October. St Georges Conclave also meets at Chorley on the 2nd Tuesday in October and February and the 1st Tuesday in June.
 
Story and photos courtesy of Mike Beesley, Webmaster