Stephen W. Petri of Darien was installed as the Worshipful Master of Union Lodge No. 5 in Stamford on Wednesday, January 6, 2010.  The Installation Ceremony took place at the Unitarian Universalist Society in Stamford, located at 20 Forest Street.  Starting with a champagne reception at 7PM, the beautiful and traditional ceremony was attended by over 120 guests, with Mr. Petri and his suite of officers formally installed by the authority of the Grand Lodge of the State of Connecticut, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.  After the ceremony, the evening’s festivities continued with cocktails, music and hors d’oeuvres.

Mr. Petri’s wife, Patrice, was presented with a large bouquet of flowers.  In turn, she presented Mr. Petri with his top hat, the symbol of his office, in a touching recognition of the contribution families make to the success of Masonry.  “I am both humbled and grateful,” Mr. Petri said, “that so many of our guests have joined us for this special occasion; it truly means the world to all of us to have our friends and family members in attendance.”  Mr. Petri shared a glimpse of his upcoming calendar for the organization, including several public events such as a Mason’s Secret Ball, an Anniversary Cocktail Party, and two Summer Picnics.

Union Lodge No. 5 was chartered in 1763 and is one of the oldest Masonic lodges in the State of Connecticut.  Located at 47 Kirkham Place in Stamford, the organization meets every first and third Wednesdays of each month at 7:30PM.