Well, if that ever were a football score, then it would certainly be one all.
And by one, we mean Stephen Boyson, who had the unique pleasure of being raised by two lodges working together.
And two rather interesting and special lodges - on one hand, the new(ish) speciality lodge Formula One Lodge, and on the other Athenian Lodge, a much older lodge indeed, but arguably one of the ‘original’ speciality lodges, being a lodge for referees, players and those associated with the world of football, and in particular the Athenian league.
And like any other match this one kicked off with all the right officials in place with an official visit from the Metropolitan Grand Inspector, Tim MacAndrews and his escorting officer. Running the lines and making sure all was in order was the watchful eye of former Metropolitan Grand Inspector, Vincent Driver, the master of Formula One and his counterpart Bryon Barnes at Athenian, with support from both Metropolitan Grand Inspector Robert Lakic and the lodges own Senior Visiting Officer.
So how does this happen? Well, like all good lodges do – blame the Director of Ceremonies! And in this case, Terry Hall , who has the envious task of being Director of Ceremonies for both lodges. Faced with one lodge in declining numbers and in need of work, and another with too few meetings and the need to raise one of its own initiates, Terry wondered if he could get out of the pits in this dilemma.
Well, he certainly did, and the coming together of two units, created a brilliant evening, well attended and a whole new mutual affection for each other’s sport. The ritual was shared out amongst the Brethren of both lodges and delivered to such a high standard that it made both lodges so proud of themselves and each other. A bumper festive board and one very happy candidate later, both lodges parted, enriched from their mutual experience and with love and respect for each other’s new acquaintances.
And the morale of the story… nothing is impossible if you dare to try. Whether you’re a new, vibrant, and successful lodge or one ailing and in need of a little support, there’s something in it for both of you. Try it, and you’re sure to be delighted by the results.
