A wonderful centenary meeting was held in the Masonic Hall, Crediton on Thursday 5th October 2023 to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Unity Lodge of Mark Master Masons 783, with more than 80 brethren attending

After the lodge was opened in due form, our Provincial Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother David Charles Purdie, along with his executive and a number of Active Officers took their places within the temple. The Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother David White handed the gavel to the PGM who then took the chair of Adonirum. 

The Deputy Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother Francis Charles Spencer was then welcomed into the temple to rapturous acclamation, and he subsequently took the chair of Adonirum for the ceremony.

The reading of the ancient warrant was eloquently undertaken by the Provincial Grand Secretary, Worshipful Brother Christopher Elliot, followed by a short narration of the history of the Unity Lodge, ablely undertaken by Worshipful Brother Ian Lanyon, the Lodge Secretary. The centenary warrant was read by the Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, Worshipful Brother Adrian Cleightonhills.

The Deputy Grand Master then presented the Worshipful Master with the Centenary Warrant, and two new ashlars were then dedicated for use within the Unity Mark Lodge. The Deputy Grand Master took the opportunity, before completing the ceremony, to invite each member of Unity Lodge to the pedestal, and congratulate them individually on this special evening. A wonderful moment for all of the brethren.

The birthday ceremony being ended, before he retired, the Deputy Grand Master then undertook 2 surprise presentations. These were in the form of collarettes being presented in recognition of the donations being made to the Mark Benevolent Fund.

Worshipful Brother David White, the WM of Unity Lodge 783, received the Collarette of a Grand Patron, and Worshipful Brother Brett Varker, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, received the Diamond Collarette. A remarkable achievement by both brethren, and for the recognition of their contributions to charitable causes.

The lodge was then closed in due form, and the brethren retired to the St Boniface centre for an excellent Festive board. 

Congratulations to W. Bro. Ian Lanyon, and W. Bro John Musty, The Lodge Director of Ceremonies, along with all the other brethren involved in organising this wonderful evening.