Three Generations in One Lodge
One of the many things that warms a Freemason's heart is when he witnesses a man being initiated into Freemasonry by his father.
The son of a Freemason is known as a "Lewis" and, in this case, Michael Claringbold becomes the third generation of his family to be active in Herne Bay's Ethelbert Lodge.
The following is a report in the words of his proud father, Steve Claringbold, a Past Master of the Lodge.
On 9 November 2016 at the Masonic Centre in Cecil Park, Herne Bay, the Ethelbert Lodge No. 2099 celebrated the initiation of Michael Claringbold into Freemasonry.
The Master of the Lodge, Kevin Claringbold, (Michaels uncle), was delighted to vacate the chair on this special occasion to allow Steve Claringbold, (Dad), the honour of initiating his son into Freemasonry.
Although Michael's Grandad, Mac Miller was at homerecovering from a knee replacement, it does mean that three generations of the same family are members of the Lodge at the same time.
Also present on the nightwas David Dance, (Uncle), with apologies from John Harris,(Uncle), and Stuart Davis, (Cousin).
Michael becomes the seventh related member of this family to join the Lodge and although he lives in Sheppey, he joins others in making their journeys to the Ethelbert Lodge from Rochester, Dover, Canterbury, Sturry and Whitstable.
His Uncle Kevin, The Master of the Lodge, Said that, "This is a very proud moment for Herne Bay with a Lewis being initiated", and he hoped that in time Michael would join the other members of his family in progressing through the ranks.
The brethren witnessed a first class ceremony, with Past Masters Cliff Norris and Peter Douglas playing key parts.
Michael said that he was, "Proud to be joining a Lodge with such a friendly mix of brethren."
Report taken from East Kent Freemasons Website