On Friday 3rd May 2019 was a very special celebration for the visitors and members of Barnard lodge, who meet at the Masonic hall in Barnard Castle. Both the Provincial Grand Master, John Arthur, and the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Stephen Walker, were in attendance to join in the celebration of the lodge’s 150 years since consecration.
The brethren enjoyed an extremely well prepared presentation from Michael Burdess, DC of the lodge and a past master. Michael explained that Barnard lodge is the only lodge in the building not to have a traditional honours board and that the past masters are honoured by having their photographs displayed on the wall of the dining room, where all of the brethren enjoy the festive board. Michael talked through the lodge history from 1995 to date, informing of the Worshipful Master for each year as well as some interesting facts of what went on in the outside world too. The presentation was full of interesting detail combined with some witty levity too which was appreciated with many smiles and laughs and a well deserved round of applause at the conclusion, in the manner usual amongst masons.
In the second rising the Worshipful Master presented John with a cheque for £1,230 pounds towards the Durham 2021 festival, the figure being the lodge number. This contribution meant that the lodge had achieved their Gold Award for meeting the target and John was very pleased to be able to present the lodge Charity Steward, Ian Groves, with a Gold pin badge to recognise their efforts. John thanked the members for their support and said that he looked forwards to be able to present them their Platinum award.
The brethren enjoyed one another’s company at the festive board as well as a delicious meal. John responded to his toast and thanked the brethren for their generous donation, congratulated the lodge members on their 150 year anniversary and paid thanks to Michael for his very interesting and fun talk. John also reminded the brethren who were present of the upcoming Provincial Convocation and Craft meetings. Stephen addressed the brethren and told them how delighted he was to be there and very humbled to have been invited. Stephen noted that Barnard lodge is the foundation of Freemasonry in that area of the Province and proposed a toast to Barnard lodge.
Provincial Website for Photo’s