Highcross Lodge No.4835 Celebrates Its Centenary in Grand Style

On Tuesday 29th October, Highcross Lodge No.4835 marked a historic milestone as members and guests gathered at Freemasons’ Hall Leicester to celebrate one hundred years since the lodge’s consecration. Fittingly, the evening took place in the magnificent Holmes Lodge Room, providing a dignified backdrop for such an important occasion.

The lodge was honoured by the presence of the full Provincial team, led by the Provincial Grand Master, Peter Kinder, who took the Chair for the first part of the meeting. His leadership set a warm and celebratory tone for the evening, reflecting the pride felt across the Province for Highcross Lodge’s century of service and fellowship.

A highlight of the meeting came when the lodge Chaplain, Paul Toon delivered a well‑researched and engaging history of the lodge, tracing its origins, notable members, and the traditions that have shaped its identity over the past hundred years. This was followed by an uplifting oration from the Provincial Grand Chaplain, The Rev. Dr Robert Stephen, who reflected on the values of Freemasonry and the enduring bonds that have sustained the lodge through the decades.

The Provincial Grand Master then presented Centenary Jewels to all lodge members, a moment met with great appreciation and a sense of shared pride. Each jewel symbolised not only the lodge’s longevity but also the commitment of its members, past and present.

Following the formal proceedings, the celebration continued at a superb festive board attended by more than ninety diners. In a thoughtful tribute to the lodge’s founding year, the menu paid homage to the original meal served one hundred years ago, reimagined with a modern twist that delighted everyone present. The dishes included:

• Pan‑fried Breast of Wood Pigeon

• Poached Fillet of Sole

• Slow Roasted Lamb Breast

• Iced Pistachio Parfait

• Cheese & Biscuits

  
  

The raffle rounded off the evening in generous spirit, raising over £500 for charity.

Officers at the Centenary Celebrations

Master   Bro. Andrew J. York – Prov.G.M.O.

Senior Warden   Bro. Alistair P. Burns

Junior Warden   Bro. Matthew Waters

Chaplain   W. Bro. Paul E. Toon – P.P.S.G.D.

Treasurer   W. Bro. Timothy M. G. Gladdle – P.P.D.G.D.C.

Secretary   W. Bro. Robert J. Reay – P.P.S.G.D.

Director of Ceremonies   W. Bro. Dominic J. Rapsey – Prov.G.Stwd

Almoner   W. Bro. Anthony Webb – P.P.J.G.W.

Membership Officer   W. Bro. Andrew J. York – Prov.G.M.O.

Mentor   W. Bro. Paul E. Toon – P.P.S.G.D.

Senior Deacon   Bro. Andrew M. Thomas

Junior Deacon   Bro. Ryan M. Hannah

Assistant Director of Ceremonies   W. Bro. Robert D. Warrington – P.P.A.G.D.C.

Inner Guard   Bro. Toby C. Ginger

Steward   Bro. Jonathan Ginger

Tyler   Bro. J. Benjamin Percival