150 Years of St. Peter & St. Paul Mark Lodge No. 163

In 1873 St. Peter & St. Paul Mark Lodge No. 163 was the second Lodge in Buckinghamshire which was consecrated. Tuesday 6th June 2023 saw the Lodge host not only the Provincial Team headed by R W Bro Keith David Bristow and around 20 Provincial Officers but, also the Deputy Grand Master R W Bro Edward Vause. The Lodge was led by W Bro Ian Alexander in an exemplary manner.

Once the Lodge was opened the Provincial team entered the Lodge, to warm applause and the Worshipful Master offered the gavel to the Provincial Grand Master, who accepted the chance to sit in the Chair of Adorniram with pleasure. R W Bro Keith Bristow thanked the Lodge for allowing him to sit in the Master’s chair, he proceeded to outline for this special meeting.

The Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies entered the Lodge and the Deputy Grand Master entered to much warm & welcoming applause; the Deputy Grand Master explained in more detail the background and the differences between Victorian times and today.

The Consecration Warrant was read by the Lodge Secretary in a very clear manner; the Deputy Grand Master commented that these are not easy documents to read, he then proceeded to present the Sesquicentenary Warrant the W Bro Ian Alexander as the current Master of the Lodge. The Provincial Chaplain gave an oration regarding the historical details of the Lodge saying how important the history was for any Lodge.

It is evident from the photographs taken on the night, that the whole event went well, and not least everyone thoroughly enjoyed the proceeding as well as the Festive Board, it was clear it was not just the “Fizz” that was bubbling, but the enjoyment of all those in attendance bubbled up to the surface making this an event which will be long remembered for all the right reasons by all.