The Province of Cambridgeshire’s unique tradition of inviting Masters from various Lodges to attend Installation meetings has once again proven the enduring power of fraternal bonds.
On Monday, 18th November 2024, an extraordinary moment unfolded at Thirkill Lodge No.7333 when W.Bro. David Kirkham was installed as the Worshipful Master, surrounded by friends, both old and new.
One of the Province’s most cherished traditions is the invitation extended to Masters in the Chairs of their respective Lodges to attend each other’s Installation meetings as special guests. This practice has led to the formation of lifelong friendships, among which the 04 Masters stand as a shining example. Formed back in 2004, this group of Lodge Masters quickly bonded during their time together on the masonic circuit. Over the years, the camaraderie has endured, with members regularly gathering for social occasions beyond the confines of freemasonry.
At the heart of the 18th November meeting was a particularly joyful moment: during the Installation ceremony of W.Bro. David Kirkham as Master of Thirkill Lodge, the installing Master, W.Bro. Osborne, offered the gavel to the visiting Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. Jonathan Lambert. To the surprise of many, the gavel was accepted.
What many in the room didn’t know was that W.Bro. Jonathan Lambert, the Assistant Grand Master, was also a proud member of the 04 Masters group. This connection added a deeply personal and heart warming twist to the evening, as W.Bro. Lambert, with great joy and enthusiasm, installed W.Bro. Kirkham as Master of Thirkill Lodge.
The surprise and delight of this moment set the tone for an unforgettable evening, which continued in a celebratory atmosphere at the festive board. The friendship and warmth in the room reflected the deep friendships formed through years of shared masonic experiences.
W.Bro. Jonathan Lambert, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, expressed his happiness in taking part in the special event, saying:
Part of my duties are to attend selected Installation meetings, and I wouldn’t have missed this one for the world. It was an absolute delight to install David as Master of this fine Lodge, and I wish him a productive and successful year ahead. The occasion not only celebrated the installation of a new Worshipful Master but also showcased the lasting bonds that freemasonry fosters
