During an unprecedented and momentous event, Stephen A. James was officially installed as the Provincial Grand Master and Grand Superintendent in and over Dorset, signifying a historic occasion for the province, something which hasn’t happened in over 150 years.
The installation ceremony, a true display of grandeur, was conducted by David Medlock, the esteemed Past Third Grand Principal, alongside a team of distinguished Grand Officers from the United Grand Lodge of England.
Adrian Marsh the Grand Secretary and Grand Scribe E read both patents from the Grand Master allowing proceedings to continue.
The Grand Director of Ceremonies, Charles Hopkinson-Woolley, skilfully oversaw both ceremonies with great decorum and respect. It is no surprise, considering his lineage as the grandson of Lord Llewellin, a former Provincial Grand Master for Dorset.
Following the installation, Stephen proceeded to bestow the responsibilities of Deputy Provincial Grand Master upon Mark Burstow, and re-appointed Mike Parkes as the Assistant Provincial Grand Master.
The ceremony was further embellished by the esteemed presence of numerous visiting Provincial Grand Masters and other dignitaries, adding lustre to the event.
The Hamworthy Club, a fitting venue for this auspicious occasion, played a pivotal role in hosting the meeting, providing exceptional service throughout. The crowning moment of the day was the delightful lunch enjoyed by over 250 Freemasons, a truly jubilant conclusion to the event.
