The Lodge's newest Entered Apprentices seated in the NE Corner
Bro Wada (left) and Bro Hayashi (right)
June 2, 2012July 7, 2012September 1, 2012
Even though the agenda for the July Stated Meeting included a ballot, proficiency tests, and a First Degree conferral (in addition to the usual business) the labors of the Lodge progressed smoothly and we were able to lay down our working tools at 1700 hrs.
The WM announced that the Committee of Enquiry had returned a favorable report on the petition of Mr Tatsuro Hayashi and directed the Lodge to proceed with a ballot. The ballot proved favorable and Mr Hayashi was able to join previously elected candidate Mr Tatsuo Wada in a First Degree conferral held later in the meeting.
The Lodge's newest Entered Apprentices seated in the NE Corner
Bro Wada (left) and Bro Hayashi (right)
After the usual routine business had been concluded, WM Sagara lowered the Lodge to the Second Degree for a proficiency test on Bros Miyauchi and Kim. The test was conducted in English by Bro Tsujii, SW, and at its conclusion WM Sagara declared both Fellowcrafts fully proficient in that degree. It is hoped to raise them to the sublime degree of Master Mason once the Lodge resumes labor in September.
WB Sagara (front row right) with Members of Far East Lodge No. 1 and visitors.
Front Row Center: Our two newest EAs flanked by VWB Watanabe and RWM Watanabe.
The Lodge was then further lowered to the First Degree and a number of visiting Entered Apprentice Masons from Tokyo Yuai Lodge No 11, accompanied by Master Masons of that lodge, were invited to witness the initiation for their Masonic education and edification.
The First Degree conferral was conducted in English with the Obligation given by the WM, the Apron Lecture by Bro Honda, the Working Tools by Bro Shunji Suzuki, the Degree Lecture by Bro Jordan, and the Charge by WB Inomata.
Bros Wada and Hayashi examine the documents presented to them at the end of the Initiation Ceremony.
The presence of so many visiting Entered Apprentices was the welcome result of Grand Lodge's new policy of encouraging EAs and FCs to witness their own degrees being conferred on other candidates, in order to deepen their understanding of the relevant degree before progressing to the next.
There being no other business to be brought before the Lodge, WM Sagara closed in due and ancient form at 1700 hrs. Our meeting was attended by 17 Master Masons, 1 FC and 2 EAs of Far East Lodge No. 1, and 2 MMs, 1 FC and 4 EAs from other lodges.