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Saturday 15th August 2026:

Technical Lodge 5666 Hawaiian Night

report by Eddie Wildman

The August meeting traditionally being short on members due to holidays, the Technical Lodge Worshipful Master, W Bro Arash Vesali decided to reduce the Lodge meeting upstairs and invite wives, friends and visitors to the Festive Board, turning the evening into a light-hearted social event. W Bro Hiten Thaker remarked when giving greetings from UGLE that it was a pleasure to see the Brethren in colourful Hawaiian shirts (by dispensation) and enjoying a relaxed attitude in Lodge. "Masonry should be fun," he averred.

 

The DC, W Bro Paul Hillary still managed to look dignified in shorts and gym shoes calling the Brethren to order, and the WM opened the Lodge with the traditional "flight check" to ensure all Offices were occupied (though there were a few stand-ins.) The minutes were confirmed and signed and Lodge business dealt with promptly, the Secretary W Bro Dan Laughton having sent the various Reports out electronically. The Tyler, W Bro Ian Parker, was called in and he and W Bro Hillary were presented with certificates acknowledging the honours awarded to them at the Annual Convocation at York. W Bro Laughton named other Technical Brethren who had been similarly recognised but were not present this evening.

Bro Bill Turner-Bone (who kindly gave me a lift home afterwards - thanks, Bill!) mentioned that he would soon be taking part in a Cycle Ride to raise money for Dove House Hospice and requested that the Brethren assisted him in this enterprise.

I spoke briefly with a nugget on Masonic Vices after which the WM closed the Lodge in due form. The Brethren returned to the dais for the photograph above.

The Festive Board (a magnificent Pyrahtic BBQ buffet appropriate to the weather and dress-code) was followed by a Hawaiian game wherein contestants endeavoured to bounce ping-pong balls into paper cups in order to win prizes, and there was also a raffle. W Bro Ian Parkinson is pictured about to win a coconut. Mention should be made of the pineapple table decorations, the colourful leis and traditional lighting; a great deal of effort had been put into creating a vibrant atmosphere. All in all it was a delightful evening wherein money was raised for Charity, new friends were introduced into the building, and a good time was had by all. Congratulations, Technical Lodge!

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

Friday 14th August 2026:

De la Pole Lodge 1605

report by Eddie Wildman

Another scorching day; the walk to the Lodge from the bus stop was an endurance test and I looked forward to a cool drink on arrival at the Lodge at Beverley Road. I was thwarted: there had been some electrical anomaly and there was no power to the fridges. Georgina the bar manager sorted it all out with the help of her mobile (I suspect she was talking to her husband James, who has spent some thirty-six hours in the past week completely refurbishing the bar and who can turn his hand to anything mechanical) and Luke the chef's long reach to the fuse boxes. She was called upstairs to assist with the projector, which was not cooperating despite W Bro Longstaff's curses, and somehow persuaded the pesky machine to operate.

Meanwhile, Brethren were arriving. Barrie Longstaff was already there, as was the Worshipful Master and Bro Ian Montgomery of the Lodge of St Andrew (see the article below.) Five guests of the Secretary, W Bro Laurie Fenwick, had travelled from near Durham for the meeting. There were other visitors too, though a number of the regular Brethren were absent, being on holiday or undergoing operations, I understand, so this evening some of the Officers were stand-ins. It is not unusual for Lodges to have lower attendances in midsummer.

The WM, W Bro Malcolm Forbes opened the Lodge in due form shortly after seven o' clock. Wearing jackets in the tropical temperature was not mandatory, he intimated, and several Brethren sacrificed elegance for comfort. I discovered, looking round, that wearing gauntlets with a short sleeved shirt was unlikely to win any fashion awards. Salutations were given to the three UGLE Officers present.

The intended ballot was cancelled as the potential candidate had withdrawn owing to work commitments. This will impact on the next meeting - watch this space.

"The highlight of the evening" as the WM put it, was the presentation of an illustrated lecture on the use and benefits of the Solomon programme by W Bros Paul Harper and Barrie Longstaff (pictured.) The former dilated on how different men learn in different ways and gain different things from Freemasonry while the latter wrestled with the projector, which at one point gave up the ghost entirely and had to be rebooted, while Paul continued regardless, promoting the programme for those who are not active learners as well as those interested in research.

He spoke of its history from its conception in 2016 to its launch two years later. He took pains to establish that it wasn't merely a website, but a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) currently boasting nearly sixty thousand members. I shuddered quietly. Initialisms and acronyms turn me off almost as much as gauntlets and short sleeves, but Paul went on to explain that we live in a digital world, and interaction is the basis of the Solomon design. It is useful to the new Mason, particularly in its snippets and nuggets.

At this point the projector failed and a fuzzy grey screen reminded me of the early days of television where the aerial had to be adjusted by hand. Paul, undaunted, spoke of Solomon's aid in enhancing one's Masonic journey. its Welcome Module part of  structured learning course with AI as a handy summariser (though is aspect is still not without the occasional fault.) He told us about ChatGPT and "portal" and future plans for expansion. Bazza wandered round the Lodge room clicking his slide advancer tool at the projector until the pictures returned. 

Considerable time was given to the badges and certificates obtainable having passed the Solomon tests. I though back to Boy Scout days when badges were sewn on the sleeves of one's uniform, and reflected that Baden-Powell had been a Freemason. A hundred thousand badges are currently issued.

Barrie Longstaff seized a moment while Paul took a breath and mentioned the competitive element, including that betwen Provinces whilst expounding on the Entered Apprentice module and the quizzes following the articles on the Apron, the Northeast Corner and the 1° Tracing Board.

A strange bleeping noise interrupted us at this point. We had all turned off our phones as a matter of course before entering the Lodge Room. I discovered afterwards that it was Dave Nichol's phone, giving him a government warning not to light any fires as the temperature had put everyone at risk. "I'd turned the damn thing off," he told me, "but the warnings come through anyway."

Paul resumed, waxing philosophical on the difference between experience and understanding, his hand gestures becoming increasingly animated. He reiterated his thoughts on the differences in learning style, and likened himself to a gerbil on a wheel with his extensive involvement in the different directions the programme is undergoing, including the eventual inclusion of other Orders.

Barrie interjected practical advice about logging on, the best ways to begin, and warning Brethren to check that their laptops hadn't distressingly relegated early Solomon connections to spam. He was glad to find the correct slides for his argument as Paul typically had ignored his script and was passionately ad-libbing.

Paul concluded with a recapitulation that the programme was not like going back to school, but of lasting value. There was a new Solomon tie pin available, he said, featuring a stylised scroll and laural leaves. "Learning," he said, "can be fun. Log on and try it."

The Brethren applauded.

The WM then gave a detailed account of his experience at the York convocation (see 1st August below) where he was awarded the honour of Grand Sword Bearer. I was invited to give a nugget  and spoke for 150 seconds on Masonic Vices, in contrast to the Masonic Virtues and warned of the dangers of Malicious Speculation.

Reports followed with further anecdotal references from the WM before the Lodge was closed in due form and the Brethren retired to a super buffet in the dining hall below. The Lodge building is blessed with a great chef, Luke Pyrah (pictured.)

There were two toasts, and the sky was dark when we left. W Bro Dave Nicoll, who had sat with me at the meal, nodded thoughtfully at the gathering clouds. "My lad asked me the other day if I knew what a solar eclipse was," he said.  "'No son,' I replied."

It was still terribly hot outside and I was grateful to W Bro Ian Fuller for the lift home.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Wednesday 12th August 2026:

Lodge of St Andrew on the Occasion of the Solar Eclipse

by Eddie Wildman

It is a quarter of a century since the UK has witnessed an eclipse of the sun. However, the Lodge was under way during the time Hull was moving from darkness to light. W Bro William Charlton opened the Lodge with commendable efficiency at seven o' clock, and an escort of Provincial Officers was formed to escort W Bro Eddie Brook into the Lodge, he having been awarded the honour of being made Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies in York at the beginning of the month.

The meeting was well attended, with six visitors from four sister Lodges, including St John of Bridlington Lodge 4434. It was pleasing to see the high proportion of younger Masons there - I counted five Entered Apprentice Aprons and a Fellow Craft; even though there were regular members absent as this was the holiday season. A ballot was taken for Mr Lee Starr who had been proposed by W Bro Bull. This proved successful and Mr Starr was subsequently initiated.

It was an excellent ceremony. Following the obligation by the WM, the Candidate, ably led round the Lodge by W Bro Brian Daragon, was instructed in the Lesser Lights (Bro Shane Jackson), the signs and grip (W Bro Rob Jackson) and invested by the Senior Warden, Bro Rob Thirsk. The address at the northeast corner was delivered by  Bro Roy Newton, the Warrant indicated by Bro James Cook, the Working Tools by Bro Eliot Clawson, and the Ancient Charge by W Bro Paul Bull, acting Senior Dracon that evening. The standard was very high.

Before retiring, Bro Starr listened to the Q&A exchange between the prnicipal officers with the necessary words for taking a higher degree in the Craft. He was escorted to the southeast corner where the WM congratulated him and the Secretary, W Bro Ian Sugarman presented him with a welcome pack and his Book of Constitutions and welcomed him as a Brother.

W Bro Alex Sheldon then presented W Bro Billany, IPM, with his Solomon certificate.

Bro Starr returned in his suit and apron and the Lodge was closed in due form. The Brethren gathered for photographs and I managed a snapshot of Bro Starr with the WM.

At the festive board W Bro Bull proposed the toast to the Candidate, the Entered Apprentice Song was rendered in a variety of keys and tempos. Bro Starr responded. I think it was W Bro Daragon who quipped "the Lodge may have missed the eclipse but it gained a star." W Bro Mike Becket of Sykes Lodge 240 responded on behalf of the visitors.

I travelled home with W Bros Anthony Cadle and Malcolm Cuthbert of the Old Hymerian Lodge 6885 - thanks, guys!

Eddie Wildman

 

Wednesday 12th August 2026:

View Malcolm Forbes' report on the Minerva Chapter/Kt meeting on the Chapter blog page for this date.

 

Monday 10th August 2026:

EBORACUM LODGE 150th ANNIVERSARY

by Jeff Swales

The Worshipful Master of Minerva Lodge Worshipful Brother Jim Bradshaw received an invitation to attend the 150th anniversary meeting of the Eboracum Lodge No.1611. The reason for this was that when Eboracum was constituted in 1876 Minerva had supported its petition. As Jim lives near York and it's a much shorter journey than he has to make to attend his own Lodge he was delighted to accept. As I had nothing better to do on a Monday night in August I decided to attend as well.

The Secretary told me that the event was sold out in fact oversubscribed. The Provincial Grand Master would be attending with his team of officers. There would be a 95 people in the Lodge room and 90 diners at the festive board and there was a waiting list.

The bar area and robing room at Saint Saviourgate are both quite small and there were a lot of people there when I arrived. I saw a number of people whom I knew including the ubiquitous Worshipful Brother Malcolm Forbes recently appointed as Provincial Sword Bearer. Wherever I go at the moment Malcolm seems to be there.

Jim Bradshaw had a reserved seat on the dias but I went upstairs in good time to make sure that I got a decent seat - i,e. one of the upholstered ones rather than one of the wooden ones. Before the meeting started it was announced that the PGM had decided that we need not wear gloves as it was a warm night.

The lodge was tiled at 7:00 pm and as we were going through the opening I noted that Eboracum works the Emulation ritual which I’m familiar with from my mother Lodge in Lincolnshire.

A report was received and it was announced that Worshipful Brother Howard Bean Provincial Director of Ceremonies was outside. The PGM, his officers and Grand Lodge officers were received under his direction. Other distinguished visitors included W Bro Simon Simpson the APGM and W Bro James Henry Newman the PGM of Yorkshire West Riding and all were saluted with the honours due to their rank. The PGM briefly took the chair before returning the gavel to the Worshipful Master.

The next item was to receive a brief history of the Lodge from at W Bro David Bowman. He described how in 1876 there was only one Craft lodge in York namely York Lodge No. 236. A number of members met in secret believing that the Lodge was too big as it had about 160 members and it was taking too long to reach the Chai, and resolved to form another Lodge to be called the Eboracum. They approached the York Lodge asking it to support their petition and to share its premises. The answer to both questions was no. They therefore approached three lodges in Hull, Minerva 250, Humber 57 and Kingston 1010 asking them to support the petition. They all agreed and the petition was ultimately granted and a warrant was issued. The word Eboracum is the Latin name for the Roman legion's fortress that eventually became the city of York

The Provincial Grand Chaplain then rededicated the Lodge Banner. This had been purchased in 2009 for £6,000, replacing the original banner. It depicts two Roman soldiers between whom is a shield with views of the historic fortifications. The Latin phrase is from Virgil's Aenid: "Hence ye profane!" warning the uninitiated away from the Sybil's sacred rites.

The PGM then presented the Lodge with a 150th anniversary certificate and in turn the WM presented the PGM with a cheque for £7,000 for the 2029 Festival.

Reports were then taken and under any other business a candidate for initiation was proposed, being the grandson of a longstanding but now sadly deceased member.

As there were so many visitors W Bro Phil Smith of Agricola Lodge No. 1911 was invited to give greetings from all of them. The Lodge was closed just after 8:00pm but it took another ten minutes or so to form the various processions and for everyone to leave the Lodge Room.

The Brethren sat down for the festive board just after 8:30pm. We enjoyed an excellent meal of prawn cocktail, roast beef, cheesecake and then cheese and biscuits as well for those who could manage them. This was great value at £25 especially compared with the £24 which it cost me to park my car for the duration of the meeting. The Lodge actually has its own car park but there was no chance of getting in it that night without arriving very early.

It was extremely hot in the dining room but this was more due to the number of Masons exhaling hot air than the weather on the evening. There was a real buzz in the room and it reminded me of times past when large numbers were not unusual at festive boards. The PGM let it be known that we could remove our jackets so long as we put them back on for the loyal toast. It was after 10:00 pm before the various toasts started and I along with a number of other Brethren took the opportunity to leave at that point. It had been a very enjoyable evening and I arrived home just before 11.00pm.

Jeff Swales, Secretary Minerva 250

 

Saturday 1st August 2026:

Convocation - Chapter and Craft

report by Eddie Wildman

An official account of the Convocation at York Racecourse will doubtless soon be published on the Provincial website: this account is therefore brief. Craig Maurier drove us to York, Paul Harper in the backseat provided a running commentary which was far more interesting than the radio. At the racecourse we changed into Chapter regalia - the Royal Arch ceremony began at 10 am, preceded by a dignified procession of distinguished guests, UGLE officers and the YN&ER Chapter Provincial Team. All stood for the arrival of the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E Comp Mark Iveson.

The Chapter had been efficiently laid out by the Provincial Stewards; I was pleased to note that the five Platonic solids were displayed on the chequered pavement, representing the harmony of the cosmos.  After problems over recent years, it was time, I reflected, for the Province to reaffirm its journey towards balance, moral values and universal harmony.

The regular polyhedra, named after the Greek philospher, were believed to be the essential building blocks of everything in the physical world.

One advantage of being at the racecourse is that the events are filmed and displayed on screens. Unfortunately, in the morning session, the screens in my part of the room weren't working, but the Chapter was opened, the Provincial Grand Registrar reported on Chapter attendance, the minutes of the last Chapter convocation were submitted for approval, and the Provincial Scribe E gave the Annual Report on Chapters in the Province.The Provincial Grand Treasurer and Auditor were elected, and other in-house business undertaken before the MEGS confirmed the reappointment of his Deputy, E Comp Hitendra Bhupendra Thaker and his Second and Third Grand Principals, W Comp Trevor Brian Collinson and E Comp Nick Mitchell and the Assistants to the Provincial Grand Principals, E Comp Jack Sharpe and Anthony Dyer, and then confirming the appointment of the Provincial Grand Chapter Officers. It was gratifying to see friends in office.

Among them were the Provincial Grand Mentor, Neil Armstrong (Kingston) and Dave Green (Technical) also stewarding, along with Peter Stokes (Chapter of St Michael) - E Comp Dave Whittle of C7833 was also there by I didn't manage to get a pic of him. The Stewards were well organised, escorting folk to the MEZ for honours and generally making the place look smart.

The MEGS addressed the Companions. I am sure that a complete transcription of his words will appear on the Provincial website; suffice it to say that this was an exhortation to build on the obvious and manifold strengths displayed by so many in the Province, and to strive to practise Masonry to demonstrate its usefulness and importance to the world around who are not members. I was reminded of a song by Harold Arlen and Johny Mercer written in 1944 "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive". Good advice. We are in times of change.

Paul enlarged upon this on the way back, noting recent changes that could never have been countenanced twenty years ago, looking at trends in society, and how Freemasonry accommodates our changing society and culture. "o tempora, o mores," I murmured. "Δεν υπάρχει τίποτα μόνιμο εκτός από την αλλαγή," riposted Paul, much more a classical scholar than I. "Heraclitus," he added, making sure I didn't miss the point.

The Provincial Grand Chapter was closed and the retiring procession followed the first verse of the National Anthem. Paul had booked lunch; Craig and I were joined by Neil Armstrong, who like us had brought his own packed lunch along. "Three pork pies, Neil?" I said as he dusted crumbs from his waistcoat. "Don't you dare put that in your blog," he said, "I only had two."

The Chapter had been dismantled and replaced by a Craft Lodge layout  while others enjoyed their food. The screens were working again so I had a better view of the proceedings. Not all the Chapter Companions stayed, while a new contingent of Blue Masons arrived. Craig was appointed to the Office of Past Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works during the ceremony which followed - with a similar format to the morning's events. It was with delight Humber 57 members Craig and I saw W Bro Malcolm Forbes appointed as Provincial Sword Bearer. It's a scary thought, I reflected, our Worshipful Master with that enormous blade in his hands. The wavy flamberge sword (from the French word for flame) traditionally has its origins in Adam and Eve being banished from the Garden of Eden, guarded by a Cherubim armed with a flaming sword. This turned my mind back to the Platonic solids: the tetrahedron was also a symbol of fire, essential element in all life according to the ancient mysteries. Worshipful Brother Forbes, pictured here with W Bro Kevin Stephen, the Provincial Banner Bearer, smiled. "The pen," he said, "is mightier than the sword." I looked at him standing there with two metres of steel in his hands. "Are you suggesting," I said, "that it's my turn to put a blog on the website, not yours?" The steel glistened. "Exactly right," said Malcolm. "Okay," I said. "I think Ed Thompson will be doing a blog for the Technical Companions and Brethren, you might want to check it out. And Peter Stokes will be doing an article for the Lodge and Chapter of St Michael."

The RWPGM (I pinched his picture from the Provincial website) reiterated the sentiments he had announced at the lunch with his distinguished guests: "Let us honour our traditions while embracing the future, strengthen our Lodges and Chapters, save our communities and move forward together as one Province."

York was full of traffic cones on the way back, but the ride was sweet, the conversation harmonious and the sun was shining. I promised myself an early night, but found time to compose this blog before going to bed.

Eddie Wildman.

 

Friday 24th July 2026:

Myton Lodge 9808

Report by Malcolm Forbes

Myton Lodge offers the opportunity to attend a daylight Lodge in a relaxed atmosphere; with non-Masonic guests invited the Brethren are able to spend a sociable time together with partners and friends.

The placing of a custom-knitted Freemason doll in front of the Worshipful Master's pedestal at every Lodge meeting is symbolic of the good humour of the Lodge, and the involvement of the ladies.

Due to the incapacity of Worshipful Master W Bro Steve Ives, Grand Lodge Officer W Bro Mike Roberts opened the Lodge in shortened form at 11.30 am. Attendance was thin due to illness, holidays and other circumstances; Grand Lodge Officer W Bro David Greendale stood in as Director of Ceremonies, I stood in as Senior Warden, Bro Mike Mcleavy stood in as Senior Deacon, unattached Mason W Bro Taj Krawczyk stood in as Junior Deacon and Bro Steve Wright, the Junior Warden of Humber Lodge 57, stood in as Inner Guard.

The ballot for Bro Wright to become a joining member of Myton Lodge was left in the hands of the Worshipful Master: Bro Wright was welcomed as a member into the Lodge.

Following Lodge Secretary W Bro Bill Hartley's Almoner's report and my Charity Steward's report, the Lodge was called off to allow two lady visitors to be allowed into the Lodge to hear a presentation from W Bro Neil Armstrong, the Lodge's Provincial Support Officer, entitled 'Railways and Freemasonry - parallel tracks'.

The talk traced the development of the railways through railway pioneers such as George and Robert Stephenson, Sir Nigel Gresley and Sir William Stanier, who were all Freemasons. W Bro Armstrong emphasised how the railway structure and Freemasonry have much in common be it, for example, the signs, the tracks and timetables, which depend on good order and discipline.

W Bro Armstrong's talk was thoroughly researched and clearly presented. There was much appreciation from the audience.

Following the talk, the Ladies retired and the Lodge was called back on.

A proposition for W Bro Krawczyk to become a joining member at the Lodge's next meeting in September was proposed by W Bro Greendale and seconded by myself.

Greetings were given by W Bro Greendale, supported by fellow Grand Lodge Officer W Bro Eddie Wildman, on behalf of the United Grand Lodge of England. W Bro Wildman's presence allowed the Opening and Closing Odes to be sung with musical accompaniment. W Bro Wildman gave greetings on behalf of Humber Lodge in the company of myself and Bro Wright. W Bro Armstrong gave greetings on behalf of Kingston Lodge supported by W Bro Hartley, Bro Mcleavy and W Bro Wildman. Another visitor, W Bro David Newland gave greetings on behalf of Imperial Sefto Lodge 680 in the Province of West Lancashire.

There were twelve diners at the Festive Board. Traditional fish, chips, mushy peas and bread and butter, followed by trifle or cheese and biscuits satisfied the most discerning palate. Two toasts were submitted.

Acting Worshipful Master W Bro Roberts emphasised the need for growth within the Lodge during the Lodge meeting and at the Festive Board. It is encouraging to see that there are two potential joining members. 

As an epilogue I gave a short talk on my experiences as a cricket umpire in England and abroad. I look forward to umpiring in the Provincial charity cricket match in support of Festival 29 at St Peter's School in York on 8th August.

The Festive Board concluded at 2.15 pm. Hopefully attendance at the next Lodge meeting on 25th September will be higher and there will be more Ladies present as the Lodge provides a lighter touch to Freemasonry without sacrificing its core values.

 

Malcolm Howzat Forbes, Acting SW

 

 

Wednesday 22nd July 2026:

Cadiz Catacombs

by Eddie Wildman

This blog is a little late: I was in Cadiz two weeks ago, but had to wait until I was back home before transferring my notes to the computer.

I’ve cruised to Cadiz and Barcelona before, and this time I decided I would see if I could find any Masonic material there, aided by Mr Google and W Bro Antonio Ramirez, who directed me to some relevant websites.

Cadiz is shaped like a pimple on the Andalusian coast and was an easy walk from the port. The temperature was high even though it was early morning. There were two significant Masonic figures in Cadiz who had helped shape the Spanish American Independence movement, Simon Bolivar and Bernado O’Higgins. Both had been initiated into the Logia de los Caballeros Racionales – the Lodge of Rational Knights (though accounts disagree – some say O’Higgins was initiated in London.) I searched for the Lodge, and found it – it was a rather forbidding studded door, nothing to get excited about. I didn't take a photograph.

There are statues of Simon Bolivar (pictured) in Cadiz, Seville and America, but I like this painting where he looks like a Tyler of the Lodge forbidding entry to the uninitiated.

Bernardo O’Higgins (also pictured) was of Irish and Basque-Spanish descent. He would later become the Governor of Chile and later Viceroy of Peru. There are busts of him elsewhere, but not in Cadiz. Mr Google supplied his portrait. High collars and epaulettes were obviously in fashion.

Freemasonry in Spain traces back to the 1720s, It was banned by the Inquisition and during the Franco regime. (General Franco actively persecuted, imprisoned or executed Freemasons.) It was seen as a threat to the Crown and the Catholic Church.

Freemasonry was legalised in the late 1970s as democracy became established. The prime governing body is the Grand Lodge of Spain.

My main interest in Cadiz, however, was in visiting the Catacumbas del Beaterio. They were not easy to discover, tucked away beneath an apartment block. I had read somewhere that they were used as a secret Masonic hide-out. I would have given up hope of finding them, but I caught sight of a young lady putting out a sign, (they were just opening) and so discovered them almost by accident. The entrance is in the courtyard of the apartments.

“Señorita, por favor, hábleme de las catacumbas,” I said in pigeon Spanish. Tell me about the catacombs.

She winced at my accent but smiled and answered in English.

“In 1633 twelve barefoot Franciscan nuns would house dead bodies in here before burial,” she explained. “Part of the wall of the spiral staircase has been chipped away to allow them to carry the coffins. Would you like to buy a ticket to see the catacombs?“

It was not a large place, comprising a seventeenth century barrel vaulted cellar with five different rooms, some of which had crude shelving hewn into the stone walls on which to lay the bodies. Being underground it was dark and enjoyably cool. Apparently one room had been used as a water tank before the nuns moved in: one could look up to see a circle of daylight through the top of the well, which was at ground level, It was not a salubrious site, but I don’t suppose the corpses would have minded. I made a respectful mental salute to the unshod sisters who had taken on this rather unpleasant work.

The former residential site above was where the Third Order of Franciscan nuns – known as Beatas resided. They left through political reasons I will not enlarge upon, and the building was then used as a shelter and dressmaking workshop for women excluded from society. (Hem, hem.) The whole upper storey collapsed, concealing the mausoleum. It wasn’t until the nineteenth century when new homes were built on the site that the catacombs were rediscovered. The cellar was used as an air raid shelter by locals during the Spanish Civil War. There is evidence of another staircase, carefully concealed, leading to a secret tunnel.

There were a few Masonic clues, the main one an inscription on a wall dating from the eighteenth century which seems to be a depiction of a Masonic Lodge with Rosicrucian overtones. A checkered pavement has pillars on either side, joined by an arch over which is a Christian cross. A candelabrum hangs therefrom, and below that is a chalice, from which rays of light seem to emanate. It wasn’t terribly clear, but a smaller black and white drawing of the design was beside it. It looked esoteric and mysterious. A meeting in the crypt would be very spooky, I mused. I could imagine a clandestine gathering in aprons and epaulettes, voices echoing in the stoney chamber while candles guttered.

Other visitors were arriving, so I climbed the stone steps back to the oven heat of the day. I spotted the disused well in the courtyard and peered into it. As I looked down, a young boy below looked up. “Boo!” I said, waving like a demented ghost. His face was a picture.

The Barcelona notes are published in the Nugget Cache.

Eddie Wildman

 

Tuesday 14th July 2026:

Humber Lodge Re-enactment

by Malcolm Forbes

The Lodge met at its new start time at 7.0 pm.

Arriving early as Worshipful Master at 6.0 pm I was able to assist in setting up the Lodge room with Assistant Secretary W Bro Ian Syddall and W Bro Peter Wright, a member of the Lodge of St Michael 7833, who was the sole visitor at the Lodge meeting. The heavy lifting was done by Treasurer W Bro Terry Fisher and Senior Warden Bro Craig Fish who carried the chairs of the Senior and Junior Warden upstairs into the Lodge room.

Along with other Brethren I purchased a Humber Lodge inscribed coffee mug from Chaplain W Bro Craig Maurier prior to the meeting.

The Lodge was opened in due and antient form. After a portion of the Antient Charges was read out and the minutes of the Lodge meeting held on 9th June approved, and a ballot for a Candidate for initiation took place. W Bro Bob Wallace, who stood in as Junior Warden, opened the ballot. The ballot was successful and the Lodge will be looking to initiate the Candidate at its September Lodge meeting.

The main business of the evening was a re-enactment of a first degree ceremony. Bro Andrew Lennard-White (pictured) acted as the Candidate. Junior Deacon Bro Matt Barber capably conducted him throughout the ceremony. Lecture Master W Bro Richard Smedley delivered the Communication of the Secrets. Director of Ceremonies W Bro Trevor Whitfield gave the Address at the North East Corner. The explanation of the Warrant was given by the Worshipful Master. W Bro Phil Watts presented the Working Tools. On this occasion it was unnecessary to deliver the Antient Charge.

The mock ceremony proved worthwhile. A further rehearsal of a first degree ceremony is planned for the Lodge's next Lodge of Instruction on 20th July.

After the Lodge reports were given, Treasurer W Bro Terry Fisher updated the Brethren on the Lodge's five bank accounts. A proposition was passed to enable the simplification of the banking process and extend the authority of the Treasurer.

Greetings on behalf of Grand Lodge were given by Grand Lodge Officer W Bro Smedley.

The Lodge meeting closed at 8.45 pm.

A ham salad awaited the Brethren at the Festive Board. This was followed up by meringue with fruit salad or cheese and biscuits. On such a warm night the meal was well received. Two toasts were submitted. The Almoner's collection raised £6.19 and the raffle raised £65.

In his parish notes the Worshipful Master reminded the Brethren that the Humber Lodge Ladies Night is due to take place at Dagger Lane on 10th October.

It had been an enjoyable and instructive evening and the Lodge looks forward to its next Lodge meeting in September.

Malcolm Forbes, WM

 

 

Saturday 4th July 2026:

Beverlonian Lodge to Hand in Warrant? Stop Press

report by Eddie Wildman

I arrived early at Trinity Lane, but a few Brethren were there already, in deep discussion with serious faces, so I bypassed the committee room and sat at the organ, rehearsing my words for later on. Shortly afterwards, they approached me (I'm an honorary member) and told me they were proposing to hand in the Warrant of the Lodge as it had become unsustainable. I nodded - I'd seen this coming for some time. The Beverlonian Lodge has not been without its upsets and tribulations, the main problem of late being appallingly low attendances.

The Master Elect, W Bro Tony Calvert had spent three days trying to get a team together for next year, and was met with excuses, some of them reasonable. Lack of enthusiasm and commitment suggested there was no way forward.

It is not my intention to speculate on the reasons for this decline, which has its roots in events in the past, rather, to congratulate those Brethren who have striven to keep the Lodge as a going concern and commend them for their valient efforts. Tonight the Officers in attendance were the WM, W Bro Mark Fox, the SW, W Bro Anthony Calvert, the Secretary W Bro Nick Baxter, the Junior Deacon and the Guest Organist. The ceremony of Raising Bro Joshua Joseph Langley to the Third Degree was succesfully undertaken with the addition of stand-ins, some of them multitasking. With the Candidate and his father, who had been raised last month (see 6th June below) I think there were ten of us in the Lodge Room.

I'll not outline the ceremony. Bro Josh (pictured with the WM) is now a Master Mason. After he retired to restore himself to his personal comforts to Lodge was lowered to the 1° and a Notice of Motion to surrender the Warrant was given "on a date yet to be confirmed", and the affairs of the Lodge finally wound up. This was followed by a second NoM to pass a resolution to dispose of the Lodge assets. (I have summarised these; members will receive the official and precise wording.)

There was no festive board afterwards and I caught the train home somewhat saddened. Perhaps the Brethren will rally round and save L9084 from oblivion, but with "lack if active membership, lack of regular attendance, little prospect of future candidates or joining members and most significantly the inablility to form a team for the ensuing masonic year . . . the Lodge has ceased to be viable."

Watch this space.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

 

Friday 3rd July 2026:

Visit to Brough Lodge 5464

by Malcolm Forbes

Following its Installation meeting on 6th June, the Lodge returned to 6.30 pm, its regular meeting time, for its monthly regular meeting at Sutton Masonic Hall.
It was encouraging to see eight visitors supplementing Brough Lodge Brethren in attendance.
Worshipful Master W Bro Paul Garthwaite had been proclaimed Worshipful Master for a second consecutive year at the Installation. The new team of Officers embraced the initiation ceremony of Mr. Stephen Dunham with confidence and authority.
The Junior Deacon Bro Kevin Woodmansey conducted Mr Dunham with skill and purpose. Senior Warden Bro Matthew Harvey and Junior Warden Bro Joe McKinnon shone in their respective Offices.
Worshipful Master W Bro Garthwaite delivered the Obligation with clarity.
The delivery of the Secrets by W Bro Gary Chambers and the ritual at the North-East Corner from W Bro Richard Tyson, a member of Holderness Lodge 3563, were particularly praiseworthy.
The Lodge continues on an upward path with a proposition for a membership candidate at its September meeting being put forward.
Amongst the visitors present was Grand Lodge Officer, W Bro Eddie Wildman, who gave greetings on behalf of UGLE. Bro James Anderson gave greetings on behalf of the three Holderness Lodge Brethren present. Supported by W Bro Wildman I gave greetings on behalf of Humber Lodge 57 and De La Pole Lodge 1605.
The meeting closed at 8.0 pm and Eddie Wildman took a photograph of W Bro Paul Garthwaite and the newly-made Brother Stephen Dunham.
The Festive Board was well attended. The Brethren enjoyed a sumptuous buffet. The choice of desserts and cheese and biscuits added to the finery of the evening. A long toast list was submitted / proposed.
A range of voices sung the Entered Apprentices Song to the musical accompaniment of W Bro Wildman, whose presence added to the vibrancy of the evening. Bro Dunham responded appropriately to the Toast to the Candidate. At the request of Senior Warden Bro Harvey I responded on behalf of the visitors.
Following the raffle and Worshipful Master W Bro Garthwaite's parish notes and Parting Toast the Festive Board concluded at 10.0 pm.
It was apparent throughout the evening that the Lodge represents the essence of Masonic tradition with good ritual, fun and friendship amongst its Brethren and a warm welcome to its visitors.

Malcolm Forbes, WM

 

 Thursday 2nd July 2026:

Constitutional Lodge 294

report by Eddie Wildman

"Swings and roundabouts," I thought to myself, an expression which took me back to my childhood days of playing in the park. It's an early twentieth century phrase alluding to the profits made in travelling fairs, such as the annual Hull Fair: "What you lose on the swings, you gain on the roundabouts." After visiting some poorly supported and badly delivered meetings earlier in the week, it was a pleasure to attend a thriving and enthusiastic Lodge with excellent ritual and evident commitment of the Brethren. The only ritual book in sight was in the hands of the Mentor, W Bro Martin Rowland, who as prompter was rarely needed.

Another hot day: the door to the fire escape was left ajar to allow a gentle breeze into the well attended Lodge room. The WM, Worshipful Brother Martyn Dickinson Hennessy, celebrating his fiftieth year in the Craft (and later presented with a certificate to that effect) opened the Lodge in due form with practised efficiency. After salutes to the three UGLE officers present and the generous portion of Provincial officers, a report from the Tyler admitted the DC for this evening's Representative, W Bro Lee Atkinson, who announced W Bro David Burnett, who was escorted to the right of the WM. A portion of the Ancient Charges was read and the minutes of the previous meeting confirmed and signed.

The main event of the evening was the initiation of Mr Michael Morfitt. Ably conducted round the Lodge by Bro Ian Denston (there had been some swapping around of officers as some Brethren were on holiday) Mr Morfitt was obligated by the WM, whose measured delivery was repeated by the Candidate with obvious understanding. (This is not always the case: some Masters break the phrases up into disjointed clusters of words without considering the meaning of the text - here it was perfectly comprehensible and well paced.) The obligation is a vow of personal honour and moral responsibility taken when a Candidate joins; a fuller explanation of his duties as a Mason is given later in the ceremony. It sets the foundation for all further Masonic development. Brother Morfitt listened intently as the WM decribed the Three Great Lights  and the Three Lesser Lights in Freemasonry.

Bro Noel Marshall explained the symbolic dangers of the degree and alluded to the ancient penalty at one time included in the obligation; Bro John Chrystal communicated the signs and distinctive handshake of an Entered Apprentice Freemason superbly.

Bro Morfitt was then tested in the foregoing recognition signs (this is done as a means of impressing them on the memory) by the Junior Warden, W Bro Dan Longley and the Senior Warden, W Bro Sam Adkin. The latter invested him with the distinctive unadorned Entered Apprentice Apron. Bro David Brazier, Lodge Chaplain, gave the address at the Northeast Corner of the Lodge with enviable fluency. W Bro Longley explained the moral applications of the Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice Freemason and the significance of the rough stone ashlar at the front of the Junior Warden's pedestal. Bro Ian Campbell Smith presented the Warrant and the Book of Constitutions and Bro Ben Blanchard delivered the Ancient Charge, which outlines at length a Mason's duties and responsibilities to God, his neighbour and himself.

While that completed the ceremony of initiation, the WM further enlightened Bro Morfitt as the Q&A exchange leading to the next stage in the Craft was passed between the principle officers. Bro Morfitt retired to restore himself to his suit.

Reports followed briefly; there were no propositions and correspondence had been dealt with previously.

W Bro John Kettlewell then presented W Bro Hennessy with a fifty-year certificate, alluding to his initiation into the Burlington Lodge half a century ago, when his father, a vicar, was the Inner Guard. He had been restricted to three minutes by the WM, he told me afterwards, and I congratulated him on encapsulating so much of the human side of W Bro Hennessy as well as his many Masonic achievements into that limited time. It was a well-focussed presentation and received appreciative acclamation. Just before he began, an errant gust of wind blew the fire door shut with a bang. "What was that?" someone asked. "Martin Rowland dropped his wallet," somebody replied, "nothing to worry about."

Bro Morfitt was readmitted and presented with a "Welcome Pack" including a letter of congratulation from the RWPGM and necessary paperwork.

Greetings were extended from UGLE and W Bro David Burnett congratulated the Lodge on the fine ceremony not only for the ritual but for the involvement of Masons wearing light blue aprons. Greetings from the visitors were given, and I of course gave greetings on behalf of the Humber Lodge.

There was no time for photographs upstairs: I managed a snapshot of W Bro Hennessy and Bro Morfitt downstairs before the festive board began. I struggled with the noise level at the festive board; increaing deafness is becoming a real worry, but was in convivial company and enjoyed the meat pie. It was after ten o' clock when the tables were cleared, the national anthem was sung and the toasts began. The Representative of the RWPGM addressed the Brethren with his usual good-humoured fluency, speaking of the rough times the Province has experienced over the last few years and exhorting the Brethren to look to the future. "Our Provincial Grand Master will take our Lodges forward," he promised. He congratulated those Brethren due for promotion, and recommended to Bro Morfitt that he visit other Lodges. "Some Lodges have people reading the ritual," he said, "but not here!"

Bro Chrystal, who had proposed Michael Morfitt as a member of the Lodge, proposed the toast to him, citing their friendship at sporting activities and when taking their children to sporting events. He commended his loyalty and determination and assured the Lodge that Bro Morfitt would be a fine addition to their numbers. The Brethren joined in the Song to the Entered Apprentice, and the Masonic Chain was explained. W Bro David Dunlop of Bridlington responded to the SW's toast to the visitors, commenting on the excellent ceremony and fine festive board.

After the raffle, which had raised £156, the toast to Absent Brethren was given by W Bro Longley, and the Parting Toast by W Bro Andrew Barry Nicholson. It was now after eleven o'clock, and I was grateful for the lift home from Bro Brazier. It had been a long evening, but a good one. The excellence of evenings such as this one makes up for the occasional less than satisfactory gathering. "Swings and Roundabouts," I reminded myself as I clambered into bed, "thank you, Constitutional Lodge."

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Wednesday 1st July 2026:

Parallel Tracks

report by Eddie Wildman

It being very warm in the Lodge Room before the 6.30 meeting, Neil Armstrong and I decided to open the fire escape door to allow a little breeze in. While it wasn't a brilliant view (and if escaping from a fire, who stops to admire the scenery) but in the distance the Brunswick Arcade on Beverley Road was partially visible, and I could make out the date, 1890. The facade has been recently restored; it takes its name from the nearby Brunswick House, the home of Henry Blundell and it was the first shopping arcade to have a covered roof. It was interesting from this viewpoint - Blundell was significant Masonically in the city - but later references to other nearby buildings made by Neil in his lecture (such as Stepney Station, which first connected Hull's suburbs and city centre to Victoria Dock, the branch line looped round the old part of the city, and opened up Hornsea and Withernsea to the people of Hull) were, I found, also particularly interesting. Neil is an authority on such local matters, but one of his great passions is railways, and today he was dilating on the development of the railway in England and parallel developments in the Craft.

His lecture was not well attended. A number of Brethren will have succumbed to watching the Fifa England v DR Congo match; Wimbledon and holidays also took their toll.  Stand-ins were needed - fortunately few visitors were involved, though Malcolm Forbes kindly took on the role of Senior Deacon.

The WM W Bro Wayne Walker opened efficiently. and Neil took the stage (his PowerPoint presentation accompanying his words was equally stunning.) In the same way that Brunswick Arcade could be viewed anew from a distant perspective, Kington Lodge's Secretary presented his "Parallel Tracks" giving different insights to his listeners.

Neil compared the mechanic and practical aspects of the industry with the moral ideals of the Craft, the necessary discipline common to both, the understanding that the whole is greater than its component parts. Progress in both, he opined, is made not only through force, but careful coordination, patience and purpose. Thus the parallel tracks of the Railway Age and the development of Freemasonry at that time were well illustrated, with reference to such notables as George Stephenson, father of the Railway Age, and his son Robert; Isambard Kingdom Brunell was compared with James Watt; record breaking achievements such as the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard were highlighted. Ian Allan, publisher and businessman was mentioned as the instigator of train spotting as well as dealing with masonic literature and regalia. Many of the great railway figures were Freemasons, it is unsurprising that some Lodges openly acknowledge their being through the age of steam.

"A Lodge Room," Neil said, "is like a station." He spoke of the relience on trust and discipline, and on interdependence, so that all aspects successfully interlocked. He spoke of the expansion of the railways over the country and the subsequent development of Masonry, throwing out connections almost casually: "the track is something we follow, the points determine direction and signals are warnings."

I'll not say more here - but for anyone interested enough, I know Neil will be giving a repeat performance at Myton Lodge on the 24th July, again at Beverley Road. The Lodge tyles at 1100 am.

The photograph of Neil shown here shows him as the volunteer station-master in the North York Moors. His authoritative "All aboard!" is still remembered in Pickering.

The WM closed the Lodge after various communications had been read concerning the purchase of Festival jewels. The festive board downstairs was appropriate to the sweltering weather, and the Brethren enjoyed each others' company. And the football? I'm not going to disclose it here.

Eddie Wildman, organist.

 

 

 

Tuesday 30th June 2026:

Muppets

observation by Eddie

I had an email from a Brother who'd visited the same meeting as me where we were both disappointed at the obvious lack of commitment in the indigenous team. "I've just read a message on a chat site," my friend wrote, "from someone else who was there. He said it was a wonderful meeting. Was he seeing and hearing the same things we were?" He wondered if the two of us were turning into the grumpy old Muppets on the balcony, Waldorf and Statler. Were we changing into intolerant tutters?

I thought about it, asking myself if we were becoming too negative, and whether this was an age issue. I decided it didn't really matter if our glasses were half empty or half full - there was still room for more wine.

 

 

Saturday 27th June 2026:

A Raising at Invictus 9960

report by Eddie Wildman

The swelteringly hot bus ride from Hull to York reminded me of conversations at the St Michael meeting; that there was evidence that grapes were grown in Iceland over forty million years ago (the Eocene Epoch) and natural cyclical temperature spikes preceding colder eras. I doubt that was little comfort to the Inuit watching their glacial environment disappear at the rate of six olympic swimming pools every second, if what I heard on the radio was true. There was no ice at the poles, I understand, in the Triassic period, allowing dinosaurs to wander the globe. There have been changes from glacial and interglacial periods every hundred thousand years, initiated by the Earth's orbit and the tilt of its axis, and chemical changes in the ocean, and more recently, CO₂ concentrations since the Industrial Revolution.

Thinking about the implications of the sea level rising and wondering if there was a way to pull carbon dioxide out of the air (trees can do it, for goodness' sake, and plankton) while deploring the amount of time we had left before we had to learn to live under water led me to check a recent email from Robert Lomas, international Masonic author, who had been observing the summer solstice from the hills in North Wales. He is currently working on a modern edition of Wilmhurst's esoteric rituals. Dr Lomas is a deep thinker, and I wondered whether to ask him about global warming and climax change, and decided I probably wouldn't understand his answer. Instead, I focussed on his argument that printed Masonic literature provides forums of thought.

He wasn't knocking electronic communication, of course - this was an email - but I nodded sympathetically as he opined that while convenient, digital communication is often skimmed, scrolled past and easily forgotten. Printed material, he argued, shapes the way we think.

You, Dear Reader, will be looking at these notes on a screen, PC, tablet or phone, and I'm aware of the impermanence of my words. I know I can respect some of what I read online, and not everything I look at is skimmed and deleted, but much of it is, I admit. Feel free to scroll past the next four paragraps while I rant.

Communication by word is to my mind one of the greatest inventions of mankind. Nevertheless, ancient languages have disappeared over time.The transcription of the written to the spoken word is the next stage, hence we have a wealth of material from the past, from the Dead Sea Scrolls to the Rosetta Stone, from cuniform on clay to hieroglyphs on papyrus. Some electronic records may have more permanence - it is too early to say.

It is interesting that in the early days of sharing Masonic ritual, candidates were instructed not to write, carve, or in any way communicate the words other than by mouth. They were transmitted and recieved orally and aurally.

It is a disappointment to me that too much ritual in Lodge is unashamedly read - sometimes from mobile phones. As I approach senility I am finding it increasingly difficult to learn new ritual, but I have little sympathy for those who will not make the effort. And that's why we have LoI of course. If we are to perform satisfactorily (acceptably to ourselves and adequately to others present) the words should be fixed in our heads to be delivered with sincerity. But it was time to climb off my soap box, put on my jacket, and get off the bus.

Is learning from a screen easier than from a book? I'm inclined to agree with Robert Lomas - but what do you think?

The ancient organ at St Saviourgate was once powered by water, I was told. Now it was electric, but when turned on, it was prone to make strange noises from time to time (not while I was playing, I hasten to add. At least, not deliberately.) Whether this was feedback from the hearing loop, or a cypher caused by a moth in the pipes, I don't know. Perhaps it was gasping for breath in the heat.

There are some very sweet pipes and some delightful quiet sounds which I used for the perambulations. While the Invictus Lodge uses Emulation ritual, there are additions to the working: calling on and calling off, for example, in military tradition. The DC told me that as there wasn't usually an organist, I should "Play it by ear", and there were several occasions during the 3° that a little soft music enhanced the mood. 

The WM, W Bro Darren Hartshorn opened the Lodge. I'd been given different answers about the tunes used for the opening and closing odes, but eventually (and I think correctly) decided that what the Brethren wanted were the tunes St Bees for the opening and St Sylvester for the closing, should anyone wish to make a note for future organists. Both hymn tunes are by John Bacchus Dykes who was born in Hull in 1823.

There were two UGLE Officers there, W Bro Jack Sharpe PGStB and me; I gave greetings at the start, he spoke at the end. The minutes were approved, the Entered Apprentice retired, and the Lodge was raised to the 2° at which juncture the Candidate, Bro Graham Rooney, correctly answered the questions leading to the next stage with an impressive dignified delivery. He was entrusted with the necessary information to gain admission to a Master Masons' Lodge and retired to change into the lightweight uniform for the occaion - I was somewhat envious, for it was very warm in the organ "loft" (only slightly raised, the organist sits in a fretted rabbit hutch behind the Junior Warden's Chair, where it is possible so see some of what goes on in the Lodge on a small screen (at the east end anyway) and able to hear what is being said if the Brethren speak loudly - fortunately, all the ritual was very clearly delivered.)

The Lodge was raised to the third degree and Bro Rooney reentered. Guided by his actual brother, Bro Neil Rooney, he underwent a plethora of perambulation, but in due time he was advanced to the pedestal and obligated by the WM. W Bro Jack Sharpe gave the Exortation magnificently, and at the appropriate point, a solemn piece of Handel was played pianissimo. This is a meaningful part of the ceremony, but I'll not spoil it for those who have not experienced it by giving a preview. Excellent ritual followed from Bros Kieran O'Donnell (Charge) and Will Hearnshaw (Secrets) and while the Candidate retired to restore himself reports were given, and I took the opportunity to leave the organ bench and sit in the Temple.

I looked at the frieze of Babylonian and Egyptian figures, interspersed at the pillasters by the astrological glyphs and Masonic signs, at the panels on the walls and ceiling with different symbols and astronomical references. The irradiated letter G in the centre is very fine, and I recommend a visit if only for the temple itself.

A report from the Tyler announced the return of Bro Rooney, his military upbringing evident in his erect posture and smart salutes. He was invested with the 3° apron by the SW, Bro A Kirk and the JW, Bro Scott Robinson explained its significance, W Bro Sharpe continued with the traditional history, and W Bro Sean Carroll, the Lodge DC gave an account of the origin of the signs used in the degree. Further information was disseminated by Bro Nick McCartney, the Junior Deacon and W Bro John Davison, the Treasurer. The Working Tools were explained by W Bro Phil Smith.

The ceremony being complete, the stand-in IPM, W Bro Nick Mitchell spoke of the next move in Masonry, to the Royal Arch or Chapter. The WM closed the Lodge in the third and second degrees, the Entered Apprentice was admitted and a succesful ballot was held. Hearty greetings were extended from UGLE, the Provincial Officers, the four visitors and from the Invictus Lodge itself. I took a snapshot of Bro Rooney with the WM after the Lodge was closed. Both were smiling, Graham at now being a Master Mason, and Darren at having completed his first ceremony since his Installation in April.

The Brethren retired downstairs to the bar and for the festive board.

I had little to do here other than play So Mote it Be after the graces, and the National Anthem before the loyal toast, and I enjoyed the meal (and the lager) very much. The Lodge had begun at 1630 hours, so it was still light (and warm) outside, and the WM gave permission for jackets to be removed during the meal. The SW instructed the Brethren in the correct useage of the port-filled firing glasses and the repast was most convivial. For me, it was interesting to hear the military viewpoint on local issues. Charity money was raised in the "Heads and Tails" and the raffle (the latter collected £103) and I won a bottle of Prosecco.

I was given a lift home by W Bro Sean Carroll, a short air-conditioned drive in complete contrast to the bus journey into York and we discussed matters Masonic whilst effortlessly driving through a brief electric storm. "I'll do a blog tomorrow," I told him, "and send it to you for checking. Thanks for a splendid evening, and thanks for the lift!"

Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

Thursday 25th June 2026:

Initiation at the Lodge of St Michael 7833

by Eddie Wildman

"It's hot. Must be global warming."

"Wan't it hot like this in 1977?"

"Yes, I remember. It was a hellova heat wave. It was 48°C in Greece. Your point?"

"Only that this was before global warming was invented."

"Did you know the Mediterranean Sea dried up about 5.9 million years ago"

"Really?"

"It was called the Messinian Salinity Crisis. Tectonic shift cut off the Atlantic, and the Med evaporated. It turned into a salt basin. It was the Zanclean megaflood, 5.3 million years ago when the Strait of Gibraltar reopened and the Med basin filled in again."

"'Mediterranean' means 'in the middle of the earth' or 'inland'. From the Latin medius and terra. But that is a translation from the Greek mesogeios meaning 'middle of the earth.' I bet our Candidate will be able to tell you all about the salt and gypsum deposits."

"Ah, the hidden mysteries of Nature and of Science. Change is a natural evolution."

"Providing you're not contributing to it. But you're right, it is hot today."

It was a regular meeting of the Lodge of St Michael 7833 at Dagger Lane. The start time was six o' clock, earlier than usual. Over the past few years there have been experimental changes of the start time, largely influenced by the build-up of traffic in the early evening, compounded by road works and road closures. Remarkably, this didn't seem to have made anyone late this evening.

The reason? Tonight's Candidate, Mr Thomas David Yeomans, had to be away by nine o' clock as he was travelling to Lincoln and staying over for an early examination the following morning. I'm not sure of the nature of the exam, but Mr Yeomans was advancing in his career of soil specialist, and I presumed that his work involved detailed chemical analysis, friability, contamination, forensic examination and other aspects of the complex nature of the earth. Indeed, Mr Yeoman's proposer, Bro Marland Faulkner, sagely remarked later that Tom's work with the very foundations of the world we live in was an ideal qualification for becoming a Freemason.

Thus the WM W Bro Stephen Longthorp opened the Lodge at the top of the hour.

W Bro Stephen Christopher Prior and Bro Faulkner were appointed as DC and Inner Guard respectively, they having been unable to attend the Installation Ceremony the previous month.

There were two stand-ins: the essential role of the Junior Deacon was taken by Bro David Broughton, who conducted the Candidate flawlessly round the Lodge; and the Senior Deacon's position taken by visitor W Bro Antonio Ramirez, representing the Phoenix Lodge 9963, who later delivered the Northeast Corner address magnificently in a delightful Spanish accent. There were seven visitors from six Sister Lodges.

The Candidate was admitted in due form and after the customary perambulation, advanced to the pedestal, where he was obligated by the WM. The Lesser  Lights were delivered by Bro David Lee Williamson (it is pleasing to note that the Lodge is blessed with an increasing number of younger Brethren who are taking office and delivering ritual with commendable efficiency) and the Sign, Token and Word of an Entered Apprentice Freemason were explained with audible clarity by the SW, Bro John Irving Burton. These distinctive signs were then communicated to the JW, W Bro Peter James Stokes, and to the SW, who invested Brother Yeomans with the white leathern apron of an Entered Apprentice.

The ADC Bro Williamson placed the rough ashlar in the Northeast Corner of the Lodge, where W Bro Ramirez gave the address.

Incidentally, should any Brother wish to examine this stone more closely may read on its small plaque that it comes from the actual foundation of the Lodge building, discovered when the figurative West wall was remodelled after WW2. (That's your first nugget for today.)

The Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice were well explained by Bro Faulkner, and the Warrant and Book of Constitutions drawn to Bro Yeomans' attention by W Bro Prior.

The Candidate retired to restore himself to his suit and tie. During the interim reports were given.

My mind wandered, as it frequently does on these occasions, and looking at the Lodge flooring, I realised that the carpet squares (7 X 19) were identical to the number of the Psalm in the VSL displayed in the 1° and on which Mister (now Brother) Yeomans had taken his obligation: Behold, how good and pleasant it is for the brethren to dwell together in unity. (That's your second nugget.)

On Bro Yeomans' return, the Chaplain, W Bro Terrence William Black delivered the Ancient Charge.

There was a successful ballot for two new Candidates, the Secretary had several notices, and the Steward, W Bro Paul Michael Henderson retired to inform the cook that the Brethren would be arriving at the festive board shortly. Greetings were given (W Bro Forbes and I stood to support each other for the Humber Lodge 57 and the Andrew Marvell Lodge 5642) the Closing Ode sung and the Lodge closed in due form. I managed a quick snapshot of W Bro Longthorp with Bros Yeomans and Broughton.

The Festive Board unusually began with the first five toasts, and without firing. After the meal (which advanced my knowledge of the world of vehicles and the military; I was in the company of vehicular experts so I said very little, being an ignoramus in such matters,) the brief but sincere toast to the Candidate was given by his proposer, Bro Faulkner. The Entered Apprentice song was vigorously rendered with more enthusiasm than technique, and the response by Brother Yeomans was brief, confident and articulate, shortly after which he had to leave us, to spontaneous applause from his newly made Brothers.

The response to the toast to the visitors was given by W Bro David Bryan of the Lodge St Germain 566, the oldest of the eight hagiographically named Lodges in the Province. The Festive Board ended with the traditional formation of a Masonic Chain and the singing of Auld Lang Syne.

 It was still stifflingly warm outside. W Bro Forbes kindly gave me a lift home. (Thanks, Malcolm!)

 "Will you do the blog write-up of today's meeting, Eddie?" he asked as he pulled out of Zebedee's Yard.

 "Yes, you can have a night off. I'll put it on both the Humber and the St Michael websites."

 "No doubt you'll include some nuggets as befits an ex-teacher?"

 "I'll see what I can do, Malcolm."

 Eddie Wildman, organist.

 

 Monday 22^nd June 2026:

 Social Fish and Chips

 By Eddie Wildman

“It’s like herding cats.”

“What is?”

“Getting everyone together for a photograph.”

“When have you ever herded cats?”

“I was being metaphorical.”

“Shouldn’t you have tablets for that?”

“Where’s Richard and his wife? Have they gone already?”

“No, I think they’re talking to Luke. In the kitchen.”

It was a convivial gathering – an informal get-together at Beverley Road put on by the Worshipful Master, Ian Fuller for no other reason than to enjoy each other’s company. Ian Montgomery was there (he takes proper photographs while I take snapshots on my phone) and he’d tucked into the fish and chip supper with gusto, polishing off extra chips. He’s bone thin – I asked him not to turn sideways or we’d not have been able to see him – by some mysterious process all his calories somehow transfer to the Masonic bookends, sturdy supporters of the Andrew Marvell Lodge.

No fuss, no ritual, no ceremony, and casual dress in the heatwave, it was a civilised evening, good food in good company. Thank you, Worshipful Master. 

Eddie Wildman

 

 

Saturday 20th June 2026:

Solstice: Minerva 250

by Eddie Wildman

Technical Problems updating the website were beyond my ability to sort out so this report on the Installation of Bro Jim Bradshaw as WM has been somewhat delayed on the Minerva website. The Installation normally takes place a week later, but had been moved by dispensation. It falls closer to the Summer Solstice (21st June, 2026) than the original date, however, which is perhaps truer to the expectations of the Founders of the Lodge in 1783, where consecrations and installations were intentionally placed as close to the longest or shortest day of the year, marked on the liturgical calendar as, respectively, the St John the Baptist and St John the Evangelist, patron saints of the Craft from the medieval stonemason guilds who dedicated their profession to the two St Johns for protection. Symbolically they represent a balance between zeal and enlightenment. The first official Grand Lodge of Freemasons was formed in London on St John the Evangalist’s Day in 1717.

The Roman goddess Minerva, after whom the Lodge is named was adopted by the Celts under the name of Sulis, rooted in ancient Celtic and Latin words for the sun and eye. She bridges the life-giving solar energy of the summer solstice with the restorative power of the earth.

Hagiography and mythology aside, the changed date impacted on the Lodge as several holidays had been booked in advance and attendance was low. Nonetheless the meeting opened on time with W Bro Richard Marshall in the Chair, the WM leading the “Flight Check” to ensure that all officers were in place, or substitutes provided. (Thus W Bro Graham Miles discovered he would be the soloist for the Masonic Anthem in the Lodge Room and for the Master’s Song at the Festive Board – and very well he did, too.)

One could not fail to be impressed by the enthusiasm of the Junior Warden, Bro Rich Driver, who delivered his lines with understanding, or the firm implacability of Bro Evaldas Korsakas as Inner Guard, who, when greetings had been given to UGLE and the Lodge opened, announced the DC for the Representative, W Bro Kevin Shilcock. W Bro Shilcock announced that W Bro Paul Hillary PPSGW and Provincial Treasurer requested entry and an escort of Provincial Officers was provided.

The Dispensation was read, with reference to Rule 139 in the Book of Constitutions, the minutes were signed and a proposition for an honorary member passed by ballot. Reports were dealt with, some of which I found inaudible.

There being no Fellowcraft or Apprentices present, the Lodge was raised to the 2° and Brother Jim Bradshaw was presented by the Installing DC, W Bro David Green (who, having been suddenly thrust into the role was a superb example of Masonic dignity, directing events with calm authority. He used no notes, but managed the entire process, including the presentation of the Working Tools in each degree from memory.) Bro Bradshaw was obligated as Master Elect and all offices declared vacant, Senior Brethren taking the Warden’s Chairs, and the W Bros Marshall as Installing Chaplain and Inner Guard.

The Lodge was raised to the 3°and those below the degree of an Installed Master retired.

Bro Bradshaw was then entrusted with the secrets peculiar to Installed Masters and reminded of the continued importance of the Three Great Lights in Masonry. I’m sure the reader will forgive me if I do not expand on this section of the ritual.

W Bro Bradshaw lowered the Lodge to the third degree and the Brethren were readmitted, and the Warrant, the authority by which we act, pointed out. The Senior Warden, Bro Richard Driver, and the Junior Warden, Brother Simon Tompkins were invested, followed by the rest of the new WM’s team. (Pictured: Bro Rich Driver, W Bro Jim Bradshaw and Bro Simon Tompkins.)

The addresses were given by Senior Members and the Anthem impressively sung, whereafter the WM thanked the Brethren for their work, received greetings and congratulations from UGLE, the Province and the visitors before closing the Lodge.

The festive board had a strong and welcome salad element as the country was experiencing a heatwave.

The Representative of the RWPGM congratulated the WM and said he’d always enjoyed the character of the Minerva Lodge. It was unnecessary to recapitulate much of the Provincial information already promulgated, but he reminded the Brethren of the forthcoming convocation at York (August 1st) and reiterated the RWPGM’s intention to reassess and improve. He mentioned Festival 29 and spoke authoritatively on the disposition of Charitable contributions.

Graham Miles sang the Master’s Song at a dignified pace, the Wardens standing appropriately as the toast was honoured through the three verses. W Bro Bradshaw responded, speaking of his affinity for the Lodge. “It has been a fantastic journey to get to this year,” he said, “and I’ve enjoyed every minute.”

The toasts were short, and the responses likewise. W Bro Chris Brown gave the toast to the IPM, remarking he had done “a first-class job, and excellent ceremonies.” The Parting toast was given, and the Brethren departed while it was still light, this being (almost) the longest day in the year.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Wednesday 17th June 2026:

Malcolm Forbes' report on the Kingston Chapter meeting on the evening of England playing Croatia in the Fifa Word Cup can be found on the Chapter Blog page for this date. The meeting finished in time for the Companions to return home to view the match, which does not feature in this blog.

 

Monday 15th June 2026:

Legolium Lodge 1542 in Castleford

report by Eddie Wildman

I don't like driving; Alan Shand does, so I was delighted to travel in his Lexus to Castleford for a 3° meeting. "This is luxury," I said, settling comfortably into the passenger seat, I'll put it in my blog." He smiled as he eased the vehicle effortlessly into the flow of afternoon traffic. "Don't forget to mention the white leather seats," he said.

We had been visited at the Lord Bolton Lodge some time ago by W Bro Bill Waters, IPM of the Legiolum Lodge 1542 in the West Riding, and he'd asked if I could go along and play the organ at a meeting. I concurred, on the proviso that someone else would drive, and that I wouldn't be essential at the Holderness Lodge, where I usually play on the third Monday of the month. Consequently today saw me travelling in style with W Bro Alan Shand who had visited Legiolum before. 

Legiolium  is the ancient Roman name for Castleford; a fort was established there in the first century, a strategically placed garrison point for the Roman army, where the River Aire met the Roman road between York and Doncaster (hence Castle & Ford in modern parlance, aptly pictured on the Lodge banner.) The military implication of the name is echoed in the Brethren of the Lodge, many of whom were from the services, and miniature military medals were proudly displayed at the festive board after the meeting. The Lodge building was constructed just before the turn of the century and is well appointed. The Lodge Room, upstairs, has illuminated panels in the east depicting various Masonic symbols and the combined shield of UGLE at the apex in stained glass. I was taken by the two pillars at the entrance to the Lodge Room. The terrestrial and celestial globes were thereon; discussion often takes place as to whether their inclusion is anachronistic, an interesting talking point, but symbolism is not always logical. Interestingly, Brazil caught my eye as I admired the biblical pomegranates, lilies and stylised network on the pillars; tonight's Candidate was Brazilian, I learned. The dining hall below was of similar proportions.

I was pleased we had arrived early, I was able to see the instrument I was to play. It was a little limited, with an octave of dab pedals and optional rhythmic accompaniments which I wouldn't need, I would be able to manage, though the limited keyboard range precluded certain voluntaries I had in mind. The electric piano in the dining room was lovely. Unfortunately, both were placed close to the air conditioners, so the noise of the fans blowing made it difficult for me to hear what was going on in the Lodge Room. I managed, somehow, and I don't think the Brethren were disappointed. Alan told me it was okay. Much of it was quiet perambulation extemporisation.

There were differences in ritual and in the music used; this was no surprise. The opening hymn, Gauntlett's University College to the words Hail Eternal, is also used in Lodges in Beverley. The Closing Hymn, Abide with me, uses the well known tune Eventide by W H Monk. Dykes' Melita followed the toast to Absent Brethren. But at one point during the ceremony,  a verse is sung to the tune St Alphege (Gauntlett again): Brief Life is here our portion, written by the 12th century monk Bernard of Cluny, translated into English in the 19th century by John Mason Neal. I wondered why the second verse was not included - but mine not to reason why.

This is probably the best point to mention the choruses at the festive board. They were similar (but not identical) to some used in North Lincolnshire. Many of these choruses (e.g. Let us have harmony) have mutated over time in different Lodges, performed to different rhythms , or with different tunes. I managed for the most part to go along with what the Brethren were singing, when the air conditioning wasn't blowing.

It was a pleasure to see W Bro William Waters again. He was a little distracted, as this evening he had been asked to stand in as Worshipful Master; the actual WM being unable to attend through an unexpected family bereavement. As if this wasn't pressure enough, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, VW Bro Ian Norman Eliot Lewis was attending, with his DC and a team of Provincial Officers. "I won't process in, Eddie," Bill said, but the DPGM will: could you play the Legiolium March, specially composed by the Provincial Grand Organist for our Consecration when he demands admission?" "Not a problem," I replied. Bill had sent me a guide to the music required and included the score of Andrew Clark's composition.

Alan and I noticed differences - the minutes were confirmed before the Provincial entry, the form of saluting the Master was unlike ours, but it was all impressively well done. There was a ballot for a rejoining member, who was welcomed following its successful outcome, and the Lodge was raised from the first to the second degree.

The Candidate, Brother Allan Coelho da Silva was examined in the questions leading to the 3° and retired for preparation. The Lodge was raised (the floor preparations were subtly different, but I'll not expand on that statement.) During the ceremony there were unexpected perambulations (extemporised music in the style of Handel) and Bro Silva was beautifully obligated by W Bro Waters (both pictured shaking hands afterwards.) Very Worshipful Brother Lewis communicated the secrets of the degree, and the Traditional History was graphically told, the story of the events following the disappearance of the illustrious architect of King Solomon's Temple. The Working Tools and Ancient Charge were also very well delivered by the Legiolium Brethren, all done from memory, which made me Alan nod approvingly.

Alan and I had discussed the increasing use of phones or books used in some Lodges to deliver ritual, a practice we both deplored. "It's just laziness," Alan has said. "There's a lack of commitment," I agreed. But here in Castleford, all involved had worked hard to raise Brother Silva to the Third Degree in a moving and impressive ceremony.

It was a nice touch at the end of the ceremony, for a recently raised Brother to be called upon to answer the questions leading to higher advancement. There was a good proportion of younger men there in addition to greybeards like myself; Legiolium appears to be thriving.

The Lodge was lowered directly to the 1° and reports tendered. The Almoner concluded with a brief eulogy on a recently departed Brother. The WM congratulated one of the members on a recent promotion and mentioned Masonic birthdays. Greetings were extended from UGLE, the Province of YWR and visiting Brethren before the national Anthem was sung.

At the Festive Board (over thirty were there, twelve of them visitors, I think) there were several occasions for taking wine, one of which was a toast to the veterans and emergency services. The Senior Warden proposed the toast to the Candidate, to which Bro Silva responded. (Music: Prosper the Art or some such chorus - the Brethren sang lustily.) The meal was Prawn Cocktail followed by steak pie, mashed potato and peas, good food in good company. Alan and I were seated opposite two visitors, both retired detectives, and the conversation was stimulating.

It had rained a little while we'd been inside, I noticed when we took our departure, but this didn't deter Alan as he drove the Lexus through the inevitable route diversions on the motorway. I was well tired, but Alan was still as fresh as a daisy; he dropped me off home just after eleven o' clock. Let me here record my thanks for the lift and the company to him, and to W Bro Bill, for the invitation to play at Legiolium Lodge. It had been a super evening.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist. 

 

 

Saturday 13th June 2026:

Lord Bolton Logo Deconstructed

by Eddie Wildman

The meeting of Lord Bolton Lodge 3263 at Beverley Road began at six o' clock, though Neil Armstrong and I arrived early in order to rehearse our presentation about the Lord Bolton logo, a coat of arms which features on the summons and on the Lodge Banner.

There were fourteen Brethren there, and W Bro Anthony Cadle was a welcome visitor, with his son Bro Will Cadle. A small gathering, but a lovely evening.

The W Master W Bro Colin Bird (pictured with Neil and me - photograph kindly taken by Bro Owen Brookes) opened the Lodge with implacable efficiency and the usual procedure of a portion of the Ancient Charge, the confirmation of the minutes etc. took place without incident.

The PowerPoint presentation followed, an explanation of the different features on the escutcheon, their family connections and back-history, including the salmon, with both Eddie and Neil sniping at each other in the Daggards tradition: "I apologise for the lack of definition in this slide, but Eddie has the technological skills of a buffalo," and "Neil is only pronouncing it that way to wind me up, Brethren. It is 'Mar-Kwiss' - guardian of the Marches. A Marquee is a type of tent." The presentation was well received, and the heraldic devices, hitherto taken for granted, were now understood.

Next the Secretary, Bro Martin Tomkins explained the interesting collection of Masonic material displayed near the door to the Lodge, donated by the family of the late W Bro Henry Victor Ferrand. His regalia from his Lodge in India (SC) and the menu card from his Installation in 1940 were shown, along with various books, including the history of the Lord Bolton Lodge and a book of advice about how to give Masonic speeches. There was also a Humber Royal Arch Chapter ritual book for Humber 57, dated 1940, which was presented to me as a UGLE Officer and a member of the Humber Lodge. Looking through it afterwards I was surprised at the extent to which the ritual has changed: details were included therein which presented a much richer tapestry of the journey of the Sojourners. At some stage, I reflected, it would be interesting to give a presentation on the early Chapter ritual, and what has been changed - and why. I made a mental note to have a word with Neil - his research skills are paramount. The connection between Chapter and Craft was the major issue between the Ancients and the Moderns before the Union in 1813, and the current inclusivity promulgated by UGLE is a positive reinforcement. Perhaps Neil would be able to provide some slides that were not out of focus.

W Bro Alan Shand quietly explained that Beverley Road cannot sustain a constant loss on takings at the bar, which fail to cover the expense of the bar staff on an increasing number of occasions; a fee will be levied in future. Other matters were discussed including the shortage of younger members at LoI, and the possibility of asking Light Blues from other Beverley Road Lodges to attend.

There was a flock of apologies read by the Secretary, and the Lodge was closed in due and ancient form.

A succulent meal at the Festive Board gave the opportunity for discussion - Neil and I did not talk about the World Cup, though Scotland would be playing later that evening. There was a full toast list, and Bro Will Cadle gave his first response on behalf of the visitors. The WM concluded the evening with a rendition of the Parting Toast Happy to Meet Again which was well received.

It was still daylight when we left (Will Cadle kindly drove me home) and I slept through the radio report of the Scotland vs Haiti Fifa match.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Friday 12th June 2026:

De la Pole Brethren Rack their Brains

report by Eddie Wildman

On this day in 1429, during the Hundred Years' War, the English commander William de la Pole, first Duke of Sussex, was taken prisoner by Joan of Arc. Following her victory at the Siege of Orléans, she launched an offensive against Jargeau, which was held by the English. De la Pole was outgunned and surrendered. The defeat was devastating for the de la Pole family; William lost two brothers and was held captive for two years. The event established Joan of Arc as a leader of legend.

No mention was made of this at the de la Pole Lodge meeting, nor was it part of the "Spot the Liars" Quiz, but one question related to the coat of arms at the time of his installation as a knight of the Order of the Garter. The words thereon (Honi soit qui mal y pense) may also be found on a Brother's UGLE Certificate. Also, the de la Pole arms displayed at the Festive Board can be seen on two of the quarters: A fess between three leopard's faces or (gold). (The red diagonal band featuring three pairs of silver wings relates to the Wingfields, an ancient and influential family going back to the Norman Conquest, named after their ancestral seat in Suffolk.)

The WM, W Bro Malcolm Forbes opened the Lodge. Then followed a eulogy from W Bro Peter Robson for Bro Richard Davy, a one-time member of L1605 who had collapsed just before Christmas and grew steadily worse through a debilitating illness which rendered him increasingly incapable; he died last week aged forty-five. The Brethren stood in silent respect.

Returning to the regular business, the Secretary read a portion of the Ancient Charge, the minutes were signed etc.

A Quiz followed, a series of Masonically related questions, answered by a panel comprising W Bros Laurie Fenwick, Peter Spencer and Russ Garbutt, only one of which was telling the truth for each question. The Brethren were challenged to spot the Liars, and so plausible were the answers given that nobody scored full marks. The WM awarded a box of Smarties to the winners.

Discussion followed regarding the moving a future meeting to an alternative date to accommodate a Rose Croix convocation; this did not meet with the Lodge's approval. There was a proposition for a new member who had been interviewed earlier that evening. Greetings were extended to the Officer of UGLE and the Officers of the Province, and the Master ordered the Lodge closed in due and ancient form.

Luke Pyrah's healthy salad was very welcome, as numbers were few (not all had stayed to eat afterwards, which possibly had nothing to do with the FIFA World Cup, now into its second day.)

I was pleased to be driven home by W Bro Ian Fuller. "See you tomorrow," he called as I alighted, "at Lord Bolton Lodge!" "Another Lodge with royal connections," I riposted, giving him a royal wave of the hand. But you'll have to wait until the next blog to find out about that.

Eddie Wildman, Quizmaster

 

Wednesday 10th June 2026:

Initiation at the Lodge of St Andrew 4683

report by Eddie Wildman

I'm sure that there is a Provincial Number Cruncher, or perhaps more elegantly, a Grand Provincial Statistician, someone in the Province who is carefully collating figures and facts and judiciously applying them to supply information for those who take such matters seriously; it is an endemic process in the world at large, measuring trends, anticipating or averting crises and extrapolating targets. Thus any Lodge can be told its position in the league table of collected funds for the festival, and how much each Brother should ideally give to reach the targets suggested, and how much members should contribute to achieve Vice-Patron Status etc. I'm sure it is useful; to what extent it informs decisions made I cannot say. One Brother remarked to me recently that he had bought a Festival jewel last time round. "But it has gone up now by 200%," he told me. "I've now bought one for the Festival 2029, but I don't like to wear it, because for many of the members, six hundred pounds is a lot of money. And I don't want to make them feel guilty."

I'm not intending to persuade or dissuade any Brother regarding fund-raising; most Brethren do what they can, and we all contribute to Charity. Nor am I entirely convinced by statistics - if, for example, you put your feet in the oven and your head in the fridge, on average you'll be perfectly comfortable. But I couldn't help thinking that if there is a growth statistic for Lodges, an analysis of the Entered Apprentice Exponential in the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings, then the Lodge of St Andrew 4683 must be somewhere near the top of the list. Sitting in the Lodge during the ceremony, I was well impressed by the plethora of light blue aprons, and also Brethren who have not yet taken their second and third degrees. And there is a waiting list - someone told me there were seven in the pipeline. This evening, two more gentlemen were proposed for membership.

I was happy to attend the Lodge of St Andrew on this occasion; the Minerva Lodge, which generally meets on the same date, was holding its Installation meeting on the Saturday as close to the Summer Solstice as the calendar permits, a tradition continued since 1783. Consequently I was able to witness a splendid 1° ceremony at Beverley Road, while signing up for Minerva Lodge on the King's birthday.

I arrived early, and was surprised to see Holderness Brethren there, in casual dress. "It's our Lodge of Instruction Night," I was told, "but we'll meet in the small temple." Soon L4683 members swelled the numbers and a delegation of keen Brethren went to set up the larger Lodge Room.

The meeting began at 7:00. The opening hymn was sung and the WM, W Bro William J Charlton opened the Lodge with the customary "flight-check" of his officers. I was saluted as an officer of UGLE (it is very satisfying to see so many wishing one well - there was a score of Brethren altogether, including myself and W Bro Mike Price as visitors before the Candidate was brought in), one of the Bylaws was read and the minutes of the last meeting approved, at which point the Inner Guard, Bro Okikiola Iman informed us there was a report from a latecomer, and he was admitted. Good healthy numbers.

The main business of the evening was to initiate Mr Robert Nevis. I'm not going to detail the ceremony in its entirety, for all the ritual was splendid; Mr Nevis was well conducted round the Lodge Room by the Junior Deacon, Bro Lee Cawood, and beautifully obligated by the Worshipful Master in clearly enunciated phrases. Bro Eliot Clawson delivered the Lesser Lights and I was privileged to communicate the signs by which Entered Apprentices can be recognised. Bro Nevis showed his immediate grasp of the sign, token and word by demonstrating them to the Junior Warden, Bro Philip Beadle and the Senior Warden, Bro Robert Thirsk. The SW invested him with the Entered Apprentice Apron, the Address at the Northeast Corner was given by W Bro Roy Newton. Fellowcraft Bro James Cook, the Candidate's proposer, indicated the Warrant and presented Bro Nevis with the Book of Constitutions. Bro Cawood then relinquished his staff of office to deliver the Working Tools before reclaiming his wand and resuming as Junior Deacon. The Tyler, W Bro Paul Bull was called in to deliver the Charge, an impressive piece of ritual which explains the duties of a Freemason.

The Q&A session (the necessary words for advancing to the next degree) was exchanged between the WM and his Wardens, and the WM shook hands with Bro Nevis. The Secretary, W Bro Ian Sugarman explained that the Mentor was also the Tyler and handed Bro Nevis a welcome pack and a letter of congratulation from the RWPGM. Bro Nevis retired to restore himself to his suit and Reports were given. Some of these were read from mobile phone screens, and I reflected how technology has changed over the last forty years. (The Secretary's collar features two quill pens: the Craft has advanced a great deal since its pre-electricity days.) The Senior Deacon and the Tyler each proposed a new Candidate. Bro Nevis returned, greetings were extended (I stood as a member of Kingston as well as giving greetings from Humber 57.) The WM closed the Lodge as efficiently as he'd opened it, and returned for a photograph with Bro Nevis and the Junior Deacon  Bro Lee E Cawood.

The festive board was delicious, the toasts brief but sincere. The Brethren submitted the toast to the absent Brethren at the top of hour and parted company shortly afterwards. The atmosphere was friendly, it had been a most succesful meeting. Congratulations to the Lodge, and to its latest recruit, Bro Nevis.

While numerically Craft statistics have subtly altered through the last two hundred years and forecasts and spreadsheets guide our progress in the twenty-first century; here at the Lodge of St Andrew, the original aim of Freemasonry was being realised: manifestly to unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness. It had been a thoroughly satisfactory evening.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

Tuesday 9th June 2026:

Spot the Liars!

This was Humber 57's first meeting at the new start time of 7pm. One visitor was in attendance at the start of the meeting, however, following a successful ballot he became a joining member, so the meeting concluded with no visitors in attendance!

No ceremony was planned but W. Bro Eddie Wildman organised an enjoyable and interactive quiz. Imagine a cross between Blind Date and Would I Lie to You! Eddie took the role of the Question Master and W Bros Ian Syddall, Terry Fisher and David Terry took turns to answer each question. The catch being, only one was telling the truth. The Brethren paired up to work out who was telling the truth. I partnered up with our new joining member and between us we managed 6 out of 10 correct answers. There were Masonic questions featured, naturally; but also some personal experiences which proved more challenging! Such as who had the most embarrassing moment in Masonry and who had the most enjoyable.

The winners of the evening were the Worshipful Master Malcolm Forbes who paired up with W. Bro Stanley Smith, scoring an impressive 9 out of 10! Eddie presented them with their prize: “As you are the smartest team, have some Smarties!”

The Lodge was closed and we made our way downstairs for a wonderful Greek kebab for the festive board and fruit salad, a welcome light and refreshing meal following the recent warm weather. The festive board on this occasion was a white table night as before the meeting, a new candidate was interviewed and invited to stay for the meal. Hopefully an initiation is on the cards for September if a ballet proves successful at the next meeting.

[Pictured: WM Malcolm Forbes with box of Smarties (he didn't share them out afterwards), W Bro David Terry, W Bro Terry Fisher, W Bro Ian Syddall, and below, Qizmaster W Bro Eddie Wildman.]

Matthew Barber

 

Monday 8th June 2026:

Rehearsals

by Eddie Wildman

While Malcolm was meeting at L9696 (see below) I had a rehearsal for the Kingston Chapter. This blog, however, is not about that rehearsal in particular, but about rehearsals in general.

The word has interesting roots, beginning with the Latin word hirpex, a rake-like implement used to break up the soil. The French evolved this into the verb hercier (to harrow), and adding the re prefix created the meaning "to harrow over again, to refine." Over time the word became metaphorical, so instead of refining a field, it came to mean refining a story.

In the 1300s the English borrowed the word, spelling it "rehersen" for repeating or reciting information, and over the next three hundred years it came to mean the practice or preparation of speech for public performance.

The word "hearse" shares the same agricultural roots.

I am familiar with rehearsals, whether for drama, a presentation for an audience such as Probus, or a music rehearsal. In each case the rehearsal is about working with others, people working together (other actors, sound manager, slides etc to produce the most effective transmission of material to a putative audience, or other players (Am I too loud? Can we agree on the tempo change? Is the balance correct?)). The purpose of a rehearsal is to prepare a piece of work for presentation.

I'm reminded of a recent Masonic event in York to which participants were instructed to arrive early to rehearse moves and procedure. It was a reminder to those taking part that they were not merely audience, but part of a meaningful ceremony rich in dignity and symbolism. While it made far a long day, it was important, and sometimes frustrating when some of the rehearsed moves were changed; nonetheless it enabled all those involved to focus on what was required. Nothing was slapdash, due care and attention ensured that the ceremony was conducted with decorum and gravitas.

I also recall being gently admonished by a helpful Brother at UGLE: "Don't swing your arms - we're not soldiers on parade. Dignity, solemnity," There was necessary instruction from the DC: "Stop on the third step - that's the one between two and four - and wait to be escorted. Brief handshake - no bone-crushing, just a touch, the Grand Master has hundreds to deal with; a court bow, a respectful nod of the head is all that is needed."

Directors of Ceremonies are particularly important at Masonic rehearsals; having the opportunity to familiarise everyone with the procedure, when to stop, when to turn, how to salute correctly. Rehearsals are necessary. They are a form of practice before an event is performed "for real."

The actual performance doesn't always follow the intended path - I've known occasions when a DC has everything perfectly organised when the final rehearsal overturns his planning because a higher authority wants things done differently. I've experienced this with visiting conductors and guest artists. This doesn't negate the validity of previous rehearsals, frustrating though it can be. It is encapsulated in the motto on the heraldic badge of the Prince of Wales: "Ich dien" meaning "I serve", adopted by the Black Prince in the fourteenth century  symbolising his loyalty to King Edward III.

As I become increasingly decrepit, rehearsals are increasingly important. My memory isn't what it used to be, and going through the words and actions of ritual with other people helps to fix things in my mind. A solo rehearsal at home doesn't cut the mustard. Words one glosses over alone in front of the mirror suddenly become difficult to pronounce, and there are pitfalls which traditionally have proved problematic (such as "the safe and sacred repository of my heart"). There is a big difference between practising solo and rehearsing with others.

We are busy men with various commitments, and cannot always attend rehearsals. To accommodate this, some Lodges meet early to rehearse just before the ceremony (and even then, events can throw the team off-track - a missing candidate, a medical emergency.) It stands to reason that a string quartet rehearsing without the 'cello cannot find the essential balance between players.

On this occasion, the rehearsal was hampered by missing a number of essential players. This was no surprise - during my year in the Chair I had never had a full team attend. But the rehearsal was nonetheless useful (one attendee remarked afterwards he'd learned more about the Chapter at the rehearsal than in the previous three years) - and for me it was helpful in highlighting the words I didn't know (most of them) and for the triumvirate it assisted in the coordinating of some of the complex moves. It was a bonding process, and I was able to tweak the ongoing ritual book with a couple of minor emendations afterwards. But I found it a harrowing experience.

Next week's Chapter meeting will be interesting.

Eddie Wildman

 

 

Monday 8th June 2026:

 Wyke Millennium Lodge 9696

Wyke Millennium Lodge meets regularly in the Rose Room at the Tickton Grange Hotel near Beverley. I became a joining member of the Lodge at its Installation meeting on 11th May 2026. As a member of the Lodge I donned a dinner jacket, a formality for Lodge Officers and members.
Instead of a third degree ceremony which had to be postponed as it would have been difficult for the Brother to participate in as he is awaiting knee surgery, the Lodge arranged a white table evening with ladies present at the Festive Board.
The two Masonic visitors were W Bro Peter Wright, a member of the Lodge of St Michael 7833, and W Bro Martin Sims, whom I had met the day before when we both attended the Lodge meeting of Semper Paratus Lodge 10076 in Beverley. W Bro Sims, who had travelled up from Kent to visit a number of Lodges in the Province before returning home on Saturday 13th June was asked formally by Junior Warden Bro Chris Wall to prove himself as a Freemason prior to the Lodge meeting.
The Lodge tyled at 6.45 pm and was opened in due and antient form by Worshipful Master W Bro Ian Sharpe. I stood in as Inner Guard.
Following a reading of a portion of the Antient Charges by W Bro Kevin Shilcock, the Lodge Secretary, W Bro Tim Haley, who had been unable to attend the Installation meeting, was installed as Tyler.
Lodge reports were presented by the Lodge Almoner Bro Wall and Lodge Charity Steward W Bro Malcolm Grange, who is also the Immediate Past Master of the Lodge. Subsequently, W Bro Grange delivered a Masonic nugget relating to the significance of the Masonic carpet and perambulation around the carpet in Freemasonry.
During the risings W Bro Shilcock read out a letter from W Bro Paul Harper, who had attended the Installation meeting as representative of the Provincial Grand Master. W Bro Harper expressed his enjoyment of the meeting and looked forward to attending the Lodge again in the near future.
After the closing of the Lodge meeting Worshipful Master W Bro Sharpe was led out in procession by Director of Ceremonies W Bro Tom Baxter accompanied by the Senior Warden, W Bro Roger Lewis, the Junior Warden, Bro Wall, the Senior Deacon, Bro Martin Omond, and the Junior Deacon, Bro David Burnand.
Brethren and guests sat down at the Festive Board at 8.0 pm. I sat on the top table along with W Bro Sharpe and his wife, W Bro Grange and his wife and W Bro Sims. Altogether there were twenty diners sat on three tables.
The three course meal represented cuisine at its best. The stimulating conversation on the top table covered many areas drawn from the collective experience of policing, the law and Freemasonry. Two toasts were submitted. The raffle raised £85.

Malcolm Forbes WM

 

Sunday 7th June 2026:

Semper Paratus Lodge 10076

by Malcolm Forbes

Semper Paratus Lodge is unique in that it holds its regular Lodge meetings on Sundays. It normally meets at Trinity Lane Masonic Hall in Beverley, although it is a peripatetic Lodge and held its last Lodge meeting at Roman Road Masonic Hall, Middlesbrough.
It is a well attended Lodge with visitors outnumbering its membership, whose connection is that they are or were members of the emergency services. Amongst the visitors present were Tyler Bro Matthew Barber and Bro Julian Edge, members of Humber Lodge 57.
The Lodge was due to open at 11.00 am but because of an incident in Beverley there was a delay which meant that the Lodge did not open till 11.15 am. The Lodge room was full.
Worshipful Master the Right Worshipful Mark Iveson, the Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings, duly opened the Lodge. The Senior Warden was W Bro Tony Dyer and the Junior Warden was W Bro Nick Mitchell.
A portion of the Antient Charges was read out by W Bro Bill Hartley, who stood in as Lodge Secretary.
The main business of the meeting was to hear a talk from W Bro Russ Dickinson, the Junior Deacon, and W Bro Dyer on firearms.
The Lodge was called off to invite non-Masonic guests to hear the two presentations.
W Bro Dickinson concentrated on the use of firearms in the police. W Bro Dyer supplemented that in his talk on shooting for recreational purposes. Both speakers drew on their extensive knowledge and expertise which duly held the audience's attention.
Following their talks the Worshipful Master invited a visitor to give a brief presentation on Saint Catherine's Hospice in Scarborough. The hospice is a Masonic aware health service which highlights Freemasonry in the community.
The Lodge was then called back on again so that the Lodge could resume its normal business after the non-Masonic visitors had left the Lodge room.
The Worshipful Master W Bro Iveson was then delighted to make a presentation to Inner Guard W Bro Andy Hinchcliff for all the work he had undertaken on behalf of the Lodge since its consecration in 2025. Andy's work was recognised alongside that of his wife and daughter who had all contributed in providing catering back-up for Lodge meetings.
The risings were greeted with visitors from across the Province as well as London and the Province of West Lancashire. I gave greetings on behalf of Humber Lodge and De La Pole Lodge 1605.
It had been a thoroughly interesting and informative Lodge meeting, which closed at 1.0 pm.
I took my seat at the Festive Board next to Senior Warden W Bro Dyer, opposite to W Bro Hartley and next to W Bro David Newland, who I knew from his attendance at Myton Lodge 9808 and De La Pole Lodge, and whose mother Lodge is in Liverpool.
The cold buffet was prepared and served by Luke Pyrah, the resident chef at Beverley Road Masonic Hall, and his staff. As always the two course meal was of the highest standard.
Right Worshipful Bro Martin Eggermont, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master and Lodge Charity Steward, asked me to sell the raffle tickets at the Festive Board as he was unable to stay due to a family commitment. The raffle raised £235 for Festival 29.
Only two toasts were submitted as the Festive Board was attended by ladies and other non-Masonic visitors.
In his parish notes Worshipful Master W Bro Iveson thanked everyone for making it such a special occasion. It was the third time I had attended the Lodge as a visitor and as in the past there was an abundance of good humour throughout. A specialist interest Lodge such as Semper Paratus Lodge upholds that interest and promotes it through the bonds of Freemasonry.

Malcolm Forbes WM

 

 

Saturday 6th June 2026:

Adolescentiam Alunt Senectutem Oblecant

report by Eddie Wildman

The motto of the Beverlonian Lodge 9084 is from the Beverlonian School, a Cicerian quotation advocating "sustain youth and entertain old age." Apart from the Worshipful Master, W Bro Mark Alan Fox, the youngest officer at Trinity Lane Beverley, the Brethren more represented the  "sere and yellow leaf" than  "the crest of youth." According to the summons, it should have been a double third degree ceremony this evening, Peter and Josh Langley - a father and son; circumstances contrived against young Josh, who fell victim to a dodgy prawn sandwich at lunch and couldn't attend. "The bottom's fallen out of world," his father told me. (I think I have that sentence in the right order.)

His father, Peter, is currently disabled. Despite elaborate attachments to his right leg, there have been spinal issues following a motorbike accident. Resolutely, Peter James Langley determined to go through the ceremony alone. I suspect that he was in pain during the proceedings; walking was a trial, standing was difficult, nor was sitting for any length of time comfortable.

But the ceremony, with necessary adaptations, went ahead. The dearth of Brethren meant that some Brethren were multitasking - W Bro Tom Baxter relinquished hs Secretarial role to act as Senior Deacon, escorting the Candidate round the Lodge, but also at times became the CD, and the Chaplain. Nor was the visitor exempt: seeing there was no IPM, W Bro Cadle, visiting in his capacity as Provincial Support Officer, stood in, responding with flawless ritual during the opening.

W Bro Roger Lewis gave a eulogy for W Bro Hardisty, whose remarkable medical career had gained him a remarkable international reputation. The Brethren stood in silent respect.

The WM raised the Lodge to the 2° in short form. Bro Peter Langley answered the questions leading to the next stage, and retired for preparation while the WM raised the Lodge to the 3°.

As Bro Langley's son may be reading this report, it don't want to spoil his Raising next month by giving any information away. The WM led the obligation and W Bro Roger Lewis delivered a substantial amount of ritual, including the Retrospect, the Ceremony of Raising and the Exhortation. W Bro Malcolm Booth communicated the various signs of the degree as well as acting as Junior Warden. W Bro Tom Baxter delivered the Sprig of Acacia and the explanation of the 3° apron invested by the SW. I had the privilege of explaining the traditional History and Bro David Wilson described the Working Tools of the degree. Master Mason Bro Langley retired to restore himself to his usual comforts, and the Lodge was lowered in short order to the Second and then the First degrees.

Reports followed, and the WM closed the Lodge. It had been a positive meeting, I reflected. Everyone gave of their best. I managed a quick photograph of Bro Langley and W Bro Fox, before we all went downstairs for the festive board.

Two toasts was an ample sufficiency. Not all the Brethren stayed for the meal, including the Candidate, so nine sat down to eat. But it was comfortable and convivial. It never fails to amaze me at the rich variety of topics and opinions exchanged by the Brethren. The table layout enabled me to hear the Wardens, W Bros Calvert and Booth exchange thoughts about the various destinations they's visited throughout the world. But the evening shadows were closing, warning us it was time to finish work and make our ways home (thanks, Anthony, for the lift!) I reflected that though numbers were down, the meeting had achieved its aim, the successful Raising of Bro Langley Senior and a continuance of the camaraderie so aptly summed up in the Lodge motto. But as Zebedee remarked in The Magic Roundabout, it was Time For Bed.

 

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

Thursday 4th June 2026:

Thesaurus Lodge 3891 initiates another Candidate

By Eddie Wildman

Thesaurus Lodge started promptly at 6.30. The attendance was in the low twenties and there were a few visitors. Having arrived early, I'd helped the Lodge Secretary, Bro Malcolm Dale and DC W Bro Richard East set up the Lodge beforehand, and all went smoothly. The WM, W Bro Nigel Bell opened efficiently (though rather quietly - he is  a soft-spoken gentleman and I found him difficult to hear) with the customary "flight check", the Secretary read a pertinent portion of the Ancient Charge and one of the Lodge bylaws, the minutes were confirmed and signed, and there was a ballot for a new Candidate, Mr John Robert Sykes.

A knock at the door from the Tyler, W Bro Rob McKenna was the prelude to Mr Sykes' entry. He confirmed his readiness to undergo the ceremony to follow. This being established, he was perambulated round the Lodge by the Junior Deacon, Bro Gareth Laycock, before being obligated by the WM. The Lesser Lights were explained by W Bro East, and the signs and handgrip of the degree by W Bro McKenna.

This information was then demonstrated to the JW, Bro Neil Tomlin, and the SW, Bro Gary Horth before the latter invested him with an Entered Apprentice apron, I enjoyed giving the address at the Northeast Corner - it is some years since I last did this - and Bro Dale pointed out the Warrant hanging on the wall, the authority by which we act, and presented Bro Sykes with a Book of Constitutions and the Lodge Bylaws. Bro Andrew Steel explained the Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice very persuasively and the Ancient Chaplain, W Bro Adrian Hayward delivered the Charge with not a comma out of place.

The Q&A interchange between the principle officers provided the information necessary for entrance into a higher degree, after which Bro Sykes retired to attire himself in his smart suit. He was readmitted during the reports.

I gave greetings from UGLE, complimentary words were extended from the Provincial Officers, visitors gave greetings. The Worshipful Master closed the Lodge. I took a couple of snapshots; not all the Brethren lined up for a group shot - there was clearing up to do. The Thesaurus Lodge has a healthy team of Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts waiting to advance, and the DC, W Bro Richard East is intending to resume the practice of putting on a Lodge of Instruction Open Night to highlight their talents.

The Festive Board was delicious. The toasts and speeches, under the baton of W Bro East, were brief. W Bro Lee Atkinson responded to the visitors toast, extolling the virtues of visiting Lodges elsewhere. The toast to the Candidate was proposed by W Bro Craig Stainforth; Bro Sykes responded, telling the Brethren he was a local lad who had been born within a hundred yards of the Lodge building, and how a visit on Ladies' Night had persuaded him to join the Craft.

He was presented with a Bible, signed by all present, and in the Thesaurus tradition, the penultimate Entered Apprentice, Bro David Hussey gave Bro Sykes a pair of white gloves. The Lodge Mentor, W Bro Rob McKenna, then spoke about the mentoring duties of the Proposer and Seconder, and encouraged the Candidate and others not to be shy about asking questions, before presenting Bro Sykes with a welcome pack.

It had a been a fine night. Congratulations to all who took part!

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Wednesday 3rd June 2026:

Brother Mcleavy passes to the 2°

Report by Eddie Wildman

Many Lodges don't meet in the summer months as traditionally this is a time for going on holiday. The past few days had been holiday weather here in the UK, but this was not to last. Today I was going to walk to Beverley Rd for the Kingston Lodge meeting, but the skies darkened as I set out, and the rain began before I reached the bus stop. It was torrential, so I took a bus to the Interchange, and another to the Lodge and managed to avoid a soaking. But as Dolly Parton remarked - "If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain."

There were few Brethren there, alas, only a baker's dozen. Some of the regular attenders no doubt were soaking up the sun in foreign climes, and ill health precluded others from being there. But Bro Jake Mcleavy enjoyed being passed to the second degree, the next stage of his Masonic journey. The WM, W Bro Wayne Walker opened the Lodge efficiently with the help of W Bros Malcom Watkinson and Tim Dillon as Junior and Senior Warden; as in the other degrees, these principle officers play a significant role in the Candidate's development.

The DC, W Bro Marcus (Slim) Whereat smartly organised salutes to the UGLE Officer (me) and the Provincial Officers; a portion of the Ancient Charges was read by the Secretary, W Bro Neil Armstrong and the minutes of last month's meeting signed. It was good to see W Bro Bill Hartley there: he was invested as Inner Guard and carried out his duties magnificently.

The Candidate, Bro Jake Mcleavy, in the hands of his older blood brother, Bro Mike Mcleavy, Junior Deacon, was examined in the questions leading to the 2° and entrusted with the password for entry into a Fellowcraft Lodge before retiring to prepare himself for the ceremony. Meanwhile W Bro Walker raised the Lodge to the second degree. W Bro Hartley announced he was prepared and ready and now he was flanked by the Junior and Senior Deacons, Bro Mike Mcleavy and W Bro Mike Price. I reflected he was well miked up as he was perambulated around the Lodge room.

Jake was obligated by the WM. I was privileged to communicate the signs and password of the degree, (the Kingston emulation ritual differs slightly from the Humber working) and Fellowcraft Mcleavy demonstrated his grasp of them by passing them to the Wardens before being invested with a Fellowcraft apron, with its distinctive pair of light blue rosettes. His sibling explained the Working Tools of the degree and W Bro Price gave a superb rendition of the Charge (which I regard as being one of the most challenging pieces of ritual in the book.)

Bro Jake retired to restore himself to his customary Masonic attire and the Master lowered the Lodge to the 1° in sort order. The next items were in the hands of the Secretary, W Bro Neil Armstrong, most of which had been assiduously distributed by email beforehand. The Treasurer gave a brief report.

I extended greetings as an Officer of UGLE and the numerous Provincial Officers stood to give hearty best wishes and congratulations to the WM. I gave greeting from Humber 57 of course.

The Lodge was closed and I managed a couple of snapshots; one of some of the Brethren (the others are probably at the bar), the other of Bro Mcleavy with the Deacons.

Luke Pyrah's delicious chicken schnitzel went down very well, and only the first two toasts were given. My seat was between Malcolm Watkinson and Neil Armstrong, and tales of lifeboat episodes and railway esoterica were most instructive. It doesn't matter if your glass if half empty or half full, I discovered; there's always room for more wine.

It wasn't raining as we took our leave of each other. I reminded myself that showers make the grass many shades greener, and enjoyed a lift back with W Bro Whereat (Thanks, Marcus!) Congratulations to all, and particularly Bro Jake Mcleavy, Fellowcraft Freemason!

Eddie Wildman, organist.

 

 

 

 

 

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