It’s October 2021 and time to celebrate a centenary for Harte Lodge of Mark Master Masons in Hartlepool.
In 1921 following on swiftly after the consecration of Harte Lodge No 4217, petitions were lodged to form five side degrees. This became what was known as the Harte series. One of these side degrees being the Harte Lodge of Mark Master Masons, No 740.
Both the members of Harte Lodge of MMM and Provincial secretariat had been preparing for several months to celebrate the centenary for Harte Lodge.
Unfortunately, the Provincial Grand Master and Deputy PGM were disappointed to be unable to attend on the night due to Covid. The baton of responsibility was picked-up by a very surprised past Deputy PGM, Frank Rankin a few hours before the meeting. To everyone’s credit, the planned celebrations then proceeded seamlessly.
The assembled welcomed the Provincial Deputation, led by Frank Rankin who in turn welcomed the Assistant Grand Master Steven Davison.
The brethren were then treated to a reading of the minutes from initial meeting of the Harte Lodge of MMM’s by Merrick Hamilton. Then followed a summary of lodge’s 100 years history, eloquently read by William Florentine. A copy of the history booklet can be viewed here.
Stephen Davison requested his accompanying Director of Ceremonies the readout the content of Centenary Certificate from Grand Mark Lodge. He then presented the document to the Lodge and into the hands of its Worshipful Master, Neil Syres.
Stephen congratulated the membership of Harte Lodge of MMM’s on reaching this ‘milestone’. He also commended the Lodge members for all the contributions in maintaining and practicing the principles of Mark Masonry, serving both members and those communities in need.
He then stated that it was his honour and pleasure to present the members of Harte Lodge with their Centenary Jewel. The members in procession proudly received their respective jewel from the Assistant Grand Master.
The celebrations continued as the brethren enjoyed a splendid ‘festive board’ including a generous slice of celebratory cake.
Responding to his toast, Steven Davison reflected on the support given by Mark Masons, to communities both nationally and within the Province of Durham, to assist in combating the effects of the Coronavirus. He concluded by thanking Frank Rankin for ‘standing- in’ as a substitute for the PGM at such very short notice and leading the Provincial Deputation Team, making the evening so memorable and enjoyable of all.
Frank responded by stating that even when he played football he had never been a third substitute’, so he was delighted and honoured to be part of Harte Lodge of MMMs Centenary Celebrates despite COVID.
Everyone commented on what a wonderful event it had been to celebrate a centenary for Harte.
You will find more information about the Mark Degree here