In field promotion for W Bro. Gray

Earlier this week a magnificent thing happened. A well-deserved promotion for our very own Worshipful Brother David Gray, member of Pilgrim Lodge.

There were an unusual set of events that led to the promotion. It was a regular meeting of Garforth Lodge (W Bro. Gray’s second Lodge). During ‘Any Other Business’ the Assistant Provincial Grand Master (APGM) Designate, Worshipful Brother Malcolm Whiteley, was outlining the Lodge’s plans for his upcoming Installation in January; when he changed tack and explained the Provincial Grand Master was already putting him to work and getting him to carry out some of the duties of his new role. He then, unexpectedly, called W Bro. David Gray forward onto the floor of the Lodge.

There was a quiet hush of expectation until the APGM Designate made clear the reason for singling out David was to make a ‘promotion from the floor of the Lodge’.

This promotion saw Worshipful Brother David Gray promoted to Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden. The significance of this rank cannot be overstated. It is highly unusual and only achieved by a few of the most deserving; who have earned it by their unselfish commitment to Freemasonry.

W Bro. Whiteley congratulated David. During the ceremony he gave a brief outline of why this promotion was so well deserved. He made clear it is a well-earned promotion warranted by all David has achieved in his long and distinguished Masonic career, saying David embraces Freemasonry, he is an active member of three Craft Lodges holding significant offices in two of them; being Treasurer and Mentor in Pilgrim Lodge, and Mentor in the other!

The APGM Designate highlighted that David also devotes himself to the Holy Royal Arch and to his Provincial Role of Lodge Liaison Officer.

He spoke of how David has been a successful business man and managed to transfer those skills into his masonic life including how, for many years, he was a Director of Warwick Suite Board, helping to oversee the building management of North Leeds Masonic Centre in Alwoodley; giving freely of both his time and skill to ensure it has a successful future.

Overall W Bro. Whiteley outlined the devotion and commitment W Bro. Gray has, and continues, to give to freemasonry in general, and to the Lodges and Chapters of which he is a member. He presented David with a certificate together with the Badge of a PPSGW for his Provincial Apron, and the Jewel of his office.

The unexpectedness of the occasion clearly took David by surprise who thanked the APGM Designate and Brethren for this honour before returning to his seat. A little paler than when he left it!

By W Bro. Goodland, Secretary of Pilgrim Lodge