Three things took place at the March Provincial Grand Senatus meeting for the first time in East Lancashire, It was the first face to face meeting with the Provincial Grand Summus, R.DistComp. Allan Shields, It was the first time the meeting had been held in the Province’s new home of Rochdale and present for the first time was the newly formed Provincial Tzaddikim.

Allan was appointed via zoom back in February 2021 in a ‘virtual’ meeting, he was later invested in fine style by the MW Grand Summus in August at the first meeting back of Vale of Irwell 16TI.

The Companions were greeted by coffee and breakfast sandwiches at the bar of Rochdale Masonic Hall and made very welcome by the staff.

They then assembled in the very fine temple and eagerly awaited the processions that followed which involved the new Tzaddikim brandishing swords in a spectacular fashion under the direction of Shaun Higson, Captain of the Guard.

Once every one was in place Allan opened his meeting and proceeded with the provincial business. Trevor Jewitt was invested as his Deputy along with David Greenhalgh as his Assistant for the year.
Allan then welcomed and greeted all the distinguished guests and visitors who had travelled from other Provinces to share the day with East Lancashire. It was good to catch up with everyone.

He thanked his outgoing officers before proceeding with the investment of the new East Lancashire team. Much has gone on since that zoom meeting, including the Consecration of the new Ribble Valley Consistory No 138. Everyone had been kept busy in particular the Provincial Recorder Paul Joynson who had, in Allan’s words, received a ‘baptism of fire’ in his first year as Recorder.

Allan recorded his thanks to the whole team as he delivered his address to the companions. There are many exciting things to look forward to, with plenty of new members waiting to join and plans to possibly extend the number of consistories even further. He wants the Province to form a strong partnership with the OSM and move both orders forward in East Lancashire.

After inspecting the Tzadikkim , Allan requested that they hold those swords high to avoid a haircut as he departed! DC Anthony Smith formed a procession and the companions retired following the closure of the meeting.

The dining room at Rochdale Masonic Hall is as splendid as the temple and the staff awaited eagerly to welcome and serve the companions with the festive board.
Refreshment and harmony was enjoyed by all as a fitting conclusion to a successful first meeting.