W Bro Antony James writes:
"Saturday 21 June 2025 at Technical Lodge No. 5666 was nothing short of extraordinary, as we gathered to honour WBro Keith Challis and celebrate an incredible 50 years of dedicated service to Freemasonry. It was a night full of warmth, reflection, and deep appreciation for a man whose Masonic journey has inspired so many.
The evening began promptly at 6:30pm with the lodge being opened in due and ancient form. WBro Paul Hillary read a portion of the ancient charges, then the minutes of our last meeting were confirmed. Brethren handled the initial reports swiftly and efficiently, allowing the lodge to be ‘called off’, an aspect of ritual not often witnessed, but one that added an extra level of significance to the evening.
With the room now prepared for non-masons to enter, we welcomed Keith’s family and invited guests into the lodge. Keith sat on my right as our honoured brother, and his wife Jenny was escorted onto the dais and seated next to him. Pride lit up his face having the rest of his family beside him, a very proud husband and father indeed. Their presence brought a unique energy to the proceedings and clearly reflected the deep respect Keith holds both within and beyond the Craft.
What followed was a moment I’ll never forget, and one I believe everyone present will remember fondly. WBro Eddie Wildman conducted a heartfelt and humorous interview with Keith, delivered with all the finesse of a seasoned professional. It was more than just a conversation; it was a rich tapestry of memories, achievements, and personal reflections that charted Keith’s journey through life and Masonry. WBro Wildman then presented Keith with his well-earned 50-year certificate, marking the moment with dignity and genuine warmth.
Keith responded graciously, offering thanks to all who had come to share in the evening. And to all those who worked hard in making it happen. His words were simple but sincere, perfectly capturing the humble nature of a man who has given so much without ever seeking recognition.
After the presentation, Keith’s guests and relatives were asked to retire while we concluded the remaining business of the evening. The lodge was then ‘called on’, and once business was concluded, the lodge was closed in due form.
The celebrations continued at the festive board, where our Director of Ceremonies led me in as Worshipful Master, accompanied by Keith, the man of the hour. Once again, Luke and his team excelled, it had already been a very busy day for Luke, serving 82 diners before our meeting. Ours added another 62. Well done, Luke, a busy day indeed.
WBro Mike Cheeseman then delivered a wonderful slideshow presentation that highlighted key moments from Keith’s life and Masonic journey. It was both informative and uplifting, giving everyone present further insight into the man behind the apron. Keith, ever the gentleman, responded with gratitude and humour, once again thanking everyone for making the evening so special.
I shared a welcome message, followed by a personal poem I had written and read aloud, penned especially for Keith and later presented as a framed keepsake. It added another layer of emotion to an already heartfelt occasion.
Given the presence of non-Masonic guests, we kept the toasts brief, just two, to the King and to the Grand Master, ensuring the evening remained inclusive and welcoming to all.
In every sense, it was a fitting tribute to a well-respected Brother. WBro Keith Challis’s 50 years in Freemasonry have left a lasting legacy, and Saturday evening was a powerful reminder of the values, friendship, and sense of community that lie at the heart of our Craft."
