It’s a family affair.
  The initiation ceremony of Bryan Magan into Goodwill Lodge No 3896 truly was a nostalgic and memorable family affair. Bryan was initiated into Freemasonry by his father Brian and was guided on his journey into Masonry by his father-in-law John Alderson, both of whom are Past Masters of Goodwill Lodge. Brian and Bryan are now the fourth father and son team in Goodwill Lodge.
  Bryan is a Widnes man and works for Warrington Borough Council as Head of Democratic and Member Services, he is a devoted family man with a wife and two teenage children who are very important in his life.
  Before the ceremony Bryan said, “I’m a bit nervous about the venture, a bit like pre-match nerves, the fact that my dad and father-in-law are here makes it a bit nerve racking, but I am also excited and looking forward to it.”
  The ceremony was well conducted by Brian, with hints of emotion, and he was ably assisted by Keith Miller. John guided Bryan on his journey with precision and Bryan proved himself to be a fast learner. The working tools of the degree were presented to Bryan by Paul Smith.
  Bryan commented after the ceremony that he found the whole experience very interesting and is now looking forward to an exciting future and is very keen to get on the ladder and becoming the WM of Goodwill Lodge at some time in the future. He also said, “I hope to put a lot into Masonry which will enable me to get a lot out of it.”
  Following on from the ceremony, everybody enjoyed a well prepared festive board, at the conclusion of which David Redhead, (Chairman of Widnes Group), presented Bryan with a welcome pack containing information about Freemasonry and an explanation of the first degree. To top the evening off, Bryan pulled his father’s ticket out of the raffle to win a bottle of whisky.

Barry continues as Master

  Goodwill Lodge (Incorporating Wilmere Lodge) No 3896 were highly delighted and extremely privileged and honoured to welcome Ian Boswell, Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, Group Chairman of Warrington  and the personal representative of the Provincial Grand Master to their Installation meeting at Widnes Masonic Hall, to witness the installation of Barry Webster into the Master’s Chair for the second consecutive year by the immediate past master, Robert Miller.
  This may well have been Ian’s final visit to Widnes before his promotion to Assistant Provincial Grand Master, with responsibilities for the Warrington, Woolton and Widnes Groups. The members of Lodge congratulated him on his promotion and wished him good health.  They hope for a good working relationship and look forward to seeing him again at a future lodge meeting .
  David Redhead, Chairman of the Widnes Group of Lodges, also attended the installation meeting along with many visitors from other lodges and visiting masters.
  At the end of ceremony Ian conveyed congratulations and best wishes from the Provincial Grand Master and on his own behalf. Ian said “the ceremony we have witnessed today was superb, everybody present has been treated to an exceptional, near word perfect ceremony from Robert and all of his team; it was truly a ceremony to be proud of. This is the second time Robert has put Barry into the Master’s Chair. He also congratulated the Director of Ceremonies Bob Williams who did an excellent job of keeping the proceedings moving smoothly and under control.
  Ian also congratulated Barry for the excellent manner in which he appointed and invested his officers.
  Barry continues as master to help bridge the gap while the Lodge waits for the newer Brethren to work their way up through all the officers’ positions. In a couple of years time Goodwill Lodge should enjoy a long run of installing Brethren into the Master’s Chair for their first time. Barry is now looking forward to another busy year in the Lodge and outside with social functions.
  There were no donations given out on the evening of the Installation as this normally done via a committee meeting and arrangements made for the donation to be presented to a particular charity at their venue.
  Following the installation ceremony, an enjoyable meal was had at the festive board at which Ian in his response, mentioned the important need of fund raising for Masonic Halls and mentoring new candidates. He said “maintaining the 3R’s is essential and the Group Mentor and Group Membership Officer have very important roles to play in maintaining the 3R’s. Ian again congratulated all those who took part in the ceremony and he wished Barry well for his second year in office and he made special mention of the Smith family for their first-rate delivery of the working tools. Ben Smith presented the third degree tools, his older brother Robert presented the second degree tools and their father Paul presented the first degree tools.
  Norman Pritchard, accompanied by Ray Illingworth on the piano, sang in splendid voice to the Masters health. At the end of the evening Ian thanked Barry and the Brethren for warmth of their welcome and hospitality and looked forward to the next time in Widnes.