Early May say Newminster Lodge No.5328, which meets at Morpeth Masonic Hall, make history when it welcomed its first Lewis, in living memory, into the Lodge.
For those readers who are unaware, a Lewis is not only a three-pronged iron cramp that is inserted in a prepared cavity in stone by which it may be lowered and lifted with precision, but also the son of a Freemason. This is because as part of his familial duty, he is 'to support the sinking powers and aid the failing strength of his father.' It is explained in the summary of the first degree tracing board to support his parents in the same way a Lewis supports and lifts a rock. The name comes from the Latin word Leuis, meaning to levitate or lift.
On this occasion John Heaton, eagerly occupied the Office of Master to perform the ceremony of Initiation for his son, making the whole meeting a very proud father and son affair, which was followed by a very convivial Festive Board which rounded the whole fantastic celebration off.
John was initiated into Freemasonry in 1992 when he joined Blagdon Lodge No.659, which meets at Blyth Masonic Hall, before joining Newminster Lodge in 2001. He has occupied the Masters chair on an incredible four occasions, and was acknowledged in Provincial Grand Lodge when he was appointed to the rank of Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies in 2009.
His son, Lewis, had been looking forward to coming into the lodge for many months and was absolutely thrilled with the unique experience and what took place. John subsequently explained
'That’s why he probably looks shell shocked in the photograph.'
Lewis is 23 and is an electrical engineer and was handsomely supported at his initiation by his recently passed and raised brothers from the Lodge. In addition, also in attendance were a large contingent of the Light Blues of Northumberland Club, who made a point of attending. Lewis said
'I had a fantastic evening and was absolutely blown away with the ceremony, I hope to make my Dad and Newminster Lodge proud moving forward. My thanks to all who made it such a wonderful night.'
Congratulations to Lewis, and John, from everyone at Northumberland Freemasons on your initiation, and the way in which it was conducted, and we wish you many happy years in the Craft together.
