At the Regular Meeting of Solihull Lodge 8088 held on 18th November 2024, the Brethren welcomed W. Bro. Mark Thomas, the Provincial Grand Learning and Development Officer, and W. Bro. Mark Dickens, PProvSGD, our newly appointed Visiting Officer.

W. Bro. Thomas gave two Orations, the first being on the subject of the meanings and historical origins of the Proper Preparatons of Candidates for Initiation, and the second was about the historical origins and significances of the Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, Master Mason, and Installed Master Aprons that are worn in Lodge.

Both Orations were very interesting, educational, and entertaining. It was evident that W. Bro. Thomas had made a large effort in preparing them and the Brethren made more than a few Advancements in Masonic Knowledge from the material he presented in the Orations.

W. Bro. Dickens introduced himself and said his appointment as Visiting Officer was only from the 14th November, he was new to the role and Solihull Lodge was the first one that he visited as a Visiting Officer.

Following the Meeting, the Brethren and Visitors retired to the Festive Board where Traditional Faggots, Mash and Greens followed by Apple Pie and Custard was offered and enjoyed.