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FEEL GOOD FRIDAY !

Members of Cymbeline Lodge 9004 enjoyed a lively and successful evening on Saturday 7th March 2026, when the Lodge hosted a fun Quiz Night at Stewart Hall.

The event was organised in support of the Worshipful Master’s charities for the year and proved to be a tremendous success, with the hall filled to capacity with enthusiastic and competitive quiz teams eager to test their knowledge.

Ten teams took part in the evening’s contest, representing a wonderful cross-section of the local community. Among those competing were teams from the local school, members of the Stewart Hall Committee, representatives from Scouting groups in the area, and supporters of the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity. They were joined by teams made up of Brethren and their families from Cymbeline Lodge, as well as Brethren from neighbouring Lodges who came along to support the event.

The evening was made even more enjoyable with a traditional fish and chip supper, followed by a well-supported raffle which added to the friendly atmosphere and fundraising efforts of the night. Throughout the evening the hall was filled with laughter, lively debate and the occasional good-natured disagreement over the quiz answers

The evening, together with some donations from members unable to attend, resulted in £901 being raised for “Domestic Abuse Survivors” and “Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio”, the charities being supported by our current Master W.Bro. Chris Barton.

A particularly special moment during the evening came when the Lodge had the pleasure of presenting a cheque to the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity. The sum of £1,500, raised during the year of the previous Worshipful Master was presented in support of the hospice’s invaluable work caring for patients and supporting families across Buckinghamshire.

MID WEEK MYTH BUSTERS Pt8

MYTH:
"Freemasonry is an Old Mans Club"

THE FACTS:
FALSE - Our Province is getting younger every year. Alongside the experience and insight of our senior members, Buckinghamshire is witnessing a significant surge in men joining in their 20s and 30s. Why? In an age of constant digital distraction, young men are craving real connection, strong mentorship, and opportunities to make a tangible difference.

Whether you're 18 or 80, if you're a man of good character, there’s a seat for you at the table

If you’re interested, all you have to do is ask, find out how at buckspgl.org

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

Monday Morning Masonic Facts - pt10

Freemasons often wear white gloves during lodge meetings and ceremonies as a symbol of purity of conduct and integrity of action. The use of gloves has historical roots in both operative stonemasonry and European social customs. In operative contexts, gloves protected the hands of craftsmen working with rough stone, while in speculative Freemasonry they became a symbolic garment representing the idea that a Mason’s actions should be clean, honest, and free from moral stain. The colour white, long associated with innocence and virtue, reinforces this symbolic meaning.

The presentation of white gloves to a candidate is a traditional feature in many Masonic jurisdictions, particularly in European and English traditions. During initiation, the gloves are sometimes explained as a reminder that a Mason’s hands should only be used for honourable and charitable purposes. In some traditions, candidates may also receive a second pair intended to be given to a woman they respect; historically described as a wife, mother, or close relative, as a gesture recognising the importance of moral support and virtue beyond the lodge.

While the exact customs vary between Grand Lodges, white gloves remain a visible and widely recognised part of Masonic attire in many parts of the world. They are typically worn with formal dress during lodge meetings and ceremonies, especially in European lodges, though their use is less common in some North American jurisdictions. Regardless of local practice, the symbolism remains consistent: the gloves serve as a reminder that Freemasonry places strong emphasis on ethical conduct, honourable labour, and the moral cleanliness of one’s deeds.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

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Spring Into Freemasonry - Week 6

WHAT A WEEK !!!

Last week we saw our current membership drive up and down the Province continue - Spring Into Freemasonry !

9 lodges took part seeing 10 new brothers join the Buckinghamshire Province - A BIG week.

Bucks Emergency Services, Christopher, Denham Green, St Peter & St Paul, Fairway, Burke, Chalfont St Giles, Bucks Football and Seer Green

Spring into Freemasonry celebrates the energy, activity, and community spirit across the Province this spring.
Throughout February March and April we’ll highlight lodge events, stories, and community impact.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

FEEL GOOD FRIDAY !

On Saturday the 7th of March the Provincial Grand MasterRW. Tim Anders attended a 100th Birthday Luncheon forW Bro. Norman Hide, which was attended by Masonic Brethren friends and family.

Norman had a very distinguished career in the Army and then the Foreign Office serving in Pakistan the Middle East, Helsinki and Moscow to mention just a few of his postings.

On the 8th of January 1970 Norman Frederick Hide joined Freemasonry in The Stewart Lodge no.1960 in the District of Pakistan. Which makes this Normans 56th year in Freemasonry. On his return to England, he joined Wineslai Lodge No.2435. Where He served as Junior and Senior Deacon, Junior and Senior Warden and then in 2003 became the Worshipful Master, after a year as Immediate Past Master he took on the office of Lodge Almoner and served for 5years. On the 26th of October he received a first Provincial appointment to Past Provincial Senior Grand Deacon the highest first appointment that can be awarded.

It came as a huge surprise to Norman when The Provincial Grand Master to mark his service to Freemasonry and commemorate his 100th Birthday carried out an infield promotion appointing Norman as Past Provincial Grand Register investing him with the Badge and Jewel of his Office marking his service to Freemasonry and commemorate his 100thBirthday.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

MID WEEK MYTH BUSTERS Pt7

MYTH:
"Freemasonry Takes Up All Your Time"

THE FACTS:
FALSE - Plenty of Freemasons have full-time jobs, families, hobbies, and other commitments. Lodges always stress that family, work, and personal life come first. Freemasonry is very much a “you get out what you put in” kind of thing and is flexible to allow this.

If you’re interested, all you have to do is ask, find out how at buckspgl.org

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

Monday Morning Masonic Facts - pt9

Feasting has long been an important social and ceremonial element within Freemasonry, rooted in the convivial traditions of medieval and early modern craft guilds from which the fraternity developed. In operative stonemasonry and early speculative lodges, shared meals helped foster fellowship, equality, and goodwill among members. Over time, this custom became formalized within Masonic culture as an integral complement to lodge meetings and ceremonies, reinforcing bonds of fraternity beyond the ritual work itself.

The meal traditionally associated with a lodge meeting is known in many English-speaking jurisdictions as the Festive Board, and in England it is most commonly held after the ceremony or lodge meeting rather than before. The Festive Board is not merely a casual dinner but a structured social occasion, often following a set order and etiquette. In English practice in particular, the Festive Board developed into a formalised continuation of the evening or afternoon, reflecting the strong emphasis placed on decorum, tradition, and communal harmony within lodge life.

A traditional Festive Board typically consists of a meal of multiple courses, accompanied by formal toasts and, in some lodges, songs or musical responses. The toasts are made to figures and principles important within Freemasonry, such as the monarch, the Grand Lodge, visiting brethren, and absent members, and are intended to express loyalty, gratitude, and goodwill. While modern lodges may simplify the format to suit contemporary lifestyles, the Festive Board remains a meaningful expression of Masonic fellowship, where ritual formality gives way to relaxed companionship, conversation, and shared celebration.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

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Spring Into Freemasonry - Week 5

Six Seven"

And we march on into March with our recruitment drive. A busy week with 6 lodges at 6 different masonic centres taking part seeing 7 new brothers join the Buckinghamshire Province:

St Barnabus, Old Wycombensian, Royal Thames, Watling Street, Chilterns, and Princes Risborough

Spring into Freemasonry celebrates the energy, activity, and community spirit across the Province this spring.
Throughout February March and April we’ll highlight lodge events, stories, and community impact.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

MID WEEK MYTH BUSTERS Pt6

MYTH:
"Freemasons Only Donate to Themselves, to Help Themselves"

THE FACTS:
FALSE - Freemasons donate millions of pounds each year to support a variety of charitable causes and help their local communities

If you’re interested, all you have to do is ask, find out how at buckspgl.org

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

Monday Morning Masonic Facts - pt8

Freemason Tracing Boards are symbolic illustrated designs used in lodge rooms to visually represent the key themes, symbols, and lessons of a particular Masonic degree. Historically, these designs were first drawn on the floor of the lodge room in chalk or charcoal and erased after the ceremony, but over time they evolved into painted or printed boards for convenience and preservation. Each degree has its own tracing board, and the images act as a visual aid to help candidates and members better understand the allegorical teachings conveyed during the ritual.

An accompanying lecture is traditionally delivered to explain the various elements depicted on the tracing board and how they relate to the ceremony. This lecture interprets the symbols in moral and philosophical terms, using allegory to communicate ideas about personal development, duty, integrity, and the pursuit of knowledge. Many of these symbolic narratives draw on stories and imagery from the Hebrew Bible (often called the Old Testament), particularly the building of King Solomon’s Temple, which serves as a central allegorical framework in Freemasonry. However, the lessons are intended to be universal and ethical rather than doctrinal or sectarian.

While tracing boards are most strongly associated with British and Commonwealth Masonic traditions, their use and style vary by jurisdiction. Different artistic schools, such as the well-known designs popularised in the 18th and 19th centuries, emphasise different visual motifs and levels of complexity. In modern lodges, tracing boards remain an important teaching tool, helping to connect spoken ritual with visual symbolism and reinforcing the moral and philosophical lessons imparted to candidates at each stage of their Masonic journey.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

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Spring Into Freemasonry - Week 4

Last week we saw our current membership drive up and down the Province continue - Spring Into Freemasonry !

3 lodges took part seeing 3 new brothers join the Buckinghamshire Province:

Wolverton Trinity, Wendover and Misbourne

Spring into Freemasonry celebrates the energy, activity, and community spirit across the Province this spring.
Throughout February March and April we’ll highlight lodge events, stories, and community impact.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

FEEL GOOD FRIDAY !

On Tuesday this week, Buckinghamshire Freemasons were asked to assist at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games Flame Lighting Ceremony, providing car park marshals and general assistance to all those attending the event.

Our Provincial Grand Master and his lovely wife along with 20 brethren from the Province answered the call, attending site early for the preparations and remaining until the last person had left. Another act of Freemasonry in The Community, that we as a Province are proud to be part of week in - week out.

Letter from Wheel Power:

"Thank you for everything you and Buckinghamshire Freemasons contributed to the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games Flame Lighting Ceremony yesterday. Your coordination of the volunteer team made an enormous difference, and it was clear throughout the day just how much care and commitment everyone brought to the event.

Please pass on my gratitude to all the volunteers involved. p

Their willingness to give their time, and to do so with such positivity helped create an atmosphere that made the ceremony both smooth‑running and truly memorable. We’re incredibly fortunate to have your continued support, not just for major events like this one, but throughout the year.

Thank you again, for everything you’ve done and continue to do. I am immensely grateful, and I hope the whole team enjoyed being part of such a significant moment for Stoke Mandeville and the Paralympic Movement."

From all of Buckinghamshire Freemasons - "GOOD LUCK TEAM GB"

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

MID WEEK MYTH BUSTERS Pt5

MYTH:
"Freemasons Only Look After Their Own"

THE FACTS:
FALSE - Freemasonry is a fraternity that has its roots firmly in the ground to help both financially and with time, community projects, charities, societies and groups all for the greater good.

If you’re interested, all you have to do is ask, find out how at buckspgl.org

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

Monday Morning Masonic Facts - pt7

Masonic lodges are traditionally democratic in their internal governance, with decisions made collectively by the members rather than imposed by authority. One of the most distinctive methods used for certain decisions—particularly the admission of new candidates—is the secret ballot. This ballot commonly employs two contrasting tokens, historically white and black balls (or sometimes cubes), placed into a ballot box by each voting member. A white ball signifies approval, while a black ball signifies objection, allowing members to vote freely and without fear of reprisal.

In many Masonic jurisdictions, especially those following older traditions, the ballot for a candidate must be unanimous for acceptance, meaning that a single black ball is sufficient to prevent admission. This practice reflects Freemasonry’s emphasis on harmony within the lodge, ensuring that no member is compelled to associate closely with someone they find unsuitable. From this custom comes the widely used terms “blackballed” and “blackballing,” which entered general English usage to describe exclusion from a group through an anonymous negative vote.

While the terminology remains well known, the act of blackballing a candidate has become relatively rare in modern Freemasonry. Contemporary lodges place strong emphasis on careful vetting, open discussion, and character assessment before a name ever reaches the ballot, reducing the likelihood of surprise objections. As a result, the black ball today functions more as a safeguard of last resort than a routine tool of exclusion, preserving both the democratic nature of lodge decision-making and the fraternity’s commitment to mutual respect and harmony.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

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Spring Into Freemasonry - Week 3

3-4-5
3rd Week, 4 Lodges, 5 New Brothers.

Last week we saw our current Spring Into Freemasonry membership drive up and down the Province continue.

4 lodges took part seeing 5 new brothers join the Buckinghamshire Province:

Scientific, Hershel, Burnham Abbey and St Lawrence

Spring into Freemasonry celebrates the energy, activity, and community spirit across the Province this spring.
Throughout February March and April we’ll highlight lodge events, stories, and community impact.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

MID WEEK MYTH BUSTERS Pt4

MYTH:
"Freemasons Have to Give A Proportion of Their Salary to Charity"

THE FACTS:
FALSE - Freemasonry at its core is very community & charity based, BUT, a member is to only donate what time & money they can afford. No dictation, expectation or judgement is made on how much this is.

If you’re interested, all you have to do is ask, find out how at buckspgl.org

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

Monday Morning Masonic Facts - pt6

The Working Tools of a Freemason are symbolic instruments derived from the tools of operative stonemasons and are used to teach moral and ethical lessons. Rather than serving a literal function, these tools represent the qualities, disciplines, and behaviours expected of a Mason as he seeks to improve himself. Through symbolism, Freemasonry presents the idea that just as a craftsman shapes rough stone into a perfect ashlar, an individual can refine their character through reflection, self-control, and virtuous conduct.

Each degree in Freemasonry has its own set of Working Tools, and their meanings are explained to the candidate at the time of initiation or advancement. For example, in the Entered Apprentice degree, tools such as the twenty-four inch gauge and the common gavel are used to illustrate the proper use of time and the need to divest oneself of moral imperfections. As a Mason progresses through the degrees, additional tools are introduced, each reinforcing more advanced lessons about responsibility, integrity, equality, and balance in one’s personal and social life.

The concept of the “perfect workman” in Freemasonry does not imply flawlessness, but rather a continual commitment to self-improvement. The Working Tools serve as enduring reminders that moral growth is an ongoing process, shaped by discipline, education, and conscious effort. By imparting these lessons gradually across the degrees, Freemasonry emphasizes that character is built over time, through practice and reflection, much like the careful and deliberate labour of the stonemason shaping a stone for its place in the structure.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

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7 New Brothers

3 Lodges. 1 Incredible Week!

Our Spring Into Freemasonry drive is officially in full bloom! This week, we are celebrating "The Magnificent Seven"—seven new members who have just started their journey within The Hall Stone Province of Buckinghamshire.

A massive welcome to our newest brothers from:
Grenville Lodge
Aylesbury Lodge
Hughenden Lodge

Throughout February, March, and April, we’re showcasing the energy and impact of Masonry across Bucks. Want to be part of a global community with local heart?
Plant your roots with us here: � https://buckspgl.org/join

FEEL GOOD FRIDAY !

Members from Lodge of Concorde met up with a representative from the Benevolent Fund at the Beaconsfield Centre to present a cheque to the charity for £1000.

The money was raised at a charity auction at their September lodge meeting, which was held at the nerve centre of the Battle of Britain the 11 Group Command Bunker at RAF Uxbridge. Amongst the auction items were clocks designed and built from aircraft instruments, manuals for the Spitfire and Hurricane and a tour of the Heritage Hanger at RAF Biggin Hill.

The RAF Benevolent Fund give lifelong support to serving and ex-serving RAF personnel and their families and maintain and preserve both the RAF Memorial and RAF Bomber Command Memorial in London on behalf of the nation. The charity provides a tailor-made approach to each individual situation. From mobility aids and confidential counselling to financial grants, they offer a range of support tailored to the individual's needs.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join

MID WEEK MYTH BUSTERS Pt3

MYTH:
"You must be a Christian to become a Freemason."

THE FACTS:
FALSE - most mainstream Freemasonry does require belief in a Supreme Being, but it doesn’t specify which religion. Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and others have all been Freemasons. Lodges avoid religious debates and don’t teach a specific theology.
The Bible is often present in English-speaking lodges, but other sacred texts are used depending on members’ faiths

If you’re interested, all you have to do is ask, find out how at buckspgl.org

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

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