The Life of Brian (Not by Monty Python)
Wow!! What a party we had to celebrate W. Bro Brian Parry’s 90th birthday. Over fifty people (brethren, their partners and guests) gathered at Connaught Lodge’s Masonic Hall during the evening of 18 June. Brian was close to tears when he arrived to a resounding chorus of Happy Birthday to You, and when he looked around the room and realised how many were there, previously expecting maybe only half a dozen.
Having regained his composure and given a drink, he went through his numerous birthday cards, one of which had been specially made by Bro. Matt Burt’s eight year old daughter Delilah-Rose. Following a generous buffet provided by W. Bro Tony Cooper and his wife Diana who also prepared the room, we readied ourselves for the main feature of the evening.
W. Bro Adrian Moore, in the role of ‘chat-show host’ interviewed Brian, teasing out memories of his early school days in Wales; his initial ambition to be a Methodist Minister which for diverse reasons didn’t happen; the various of jobs he had after leaving school, including banking, and the family’s move to Westbury. He did his National Service in the Army as a PT Instructor following which he qualified as a Teacher of Physical Education. He obtained a degree in Philosophy; then a Law Degree and ultimately became a Barrister. In 1960 Brian was persuaded to go to a dance in London where he set eyes on his future wife Mary. He confessed it was ‘love at first sight’, and they married the following year and subsequently had two daughters, Elaine Myfanwy, presently living in France, and Miriam.
Adrian interspersed the interview with five pieces of music Brian had chosen as having significant meaning to him. I know my Redeemer Liveth, sung by Kathleen Ferrier, the very first record he bought. Cujus Animan from Rossini’s Stabet Mater; he had success when singing this in a contest in which he could reach the highest notes (not an easy feat). Waft your Angels sung by Stuart Burrows, as this refers to ‘Jephtha’ in the Second Degree Tracing Board. My Grandfather’s Clock by the Sheldon Theatre Brass Band, Brian used to play the Cornet and always aspired to play this extremely complicated and difficult piece. And, Myfanwy sung by the Treorchy Male Votive Choir, the name of his eldest daughter and which reminds him of his Welsh roots. But this is just a snapshot of the forty-five minutes exposing the varied and fascinating life of Brian, prompted by Adrian, which culminated in thunderous applause.
WM Chris James highlighted some salient aspects of Brian’s Masonic life since being Initiated into the Lodge of Honour on 13 January 1973, fifty-one years ago. He was Exalted in the Royal Arch in year 2000 and has been Worshipful Master six times; three in the Lodge of Honour and three in Connaught. Not prepared to take a ‘back seat’ and still wanting to remain Active, Brian is currently Connaught’s Senior Warden. Chris praised Brian’s commitment and dedication to Freemasonry and wished him many more happy Masonic years to follow. Following Brian receiving a 90th birthday cake made by Bro. James Jefferies wife Caroline, Chris then called the gathering to order to formally raise a glass to honour Brian’s birthday, to which Brian responded by saying that he was completely overwhelmed and thanked everyone for their good wishes.
A testament to the true spirit of Masonry: everyone pulling together to give Brian a most memorable birthday.
