Over 40 walkers completed the 50 mile/110K steps in July 2023. Hospice volunteers, Buckinghamshire Freemasons, and many friends and family members made up the team. Several hundred sandwiches and cakes later, our brave explorers took in some beautiful sights and concluded the trip several hours sooner than intended, despite severe downpours on one hand and nettles on the other!
The Pilgrims collected £31,254 in total, which will allow the hospice to purchase two specialist custom cuddle beds allowing people admitted to the hospice to be with their loved ones in their last days.
Over 40 walkers completed the 50 miles /110K steps, with the aid of our support crew and volunteers from the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity. Several hu
Bram Stoker Stoker is shown in Grand Lodge records as having joined only one Lodge: the Buckingham and Chandos Lodge, No. 1150, which was
Bram Stoker
Stoker is shown in Grand Lodge records as having joined only one Lodge: the Buckingham and Chandos Lodge, No. 1150, which was formed by Officers and Sergeants of the 1st Middlesex Artillery Volunteers.
Stoker gave his occupation as author and, although his work Dracula had not yet achieved the renown it would gain in later years, he did write other novels whilst continuing with his daytime job. Initiated in February 1883, he remained a mason for only six years according to records available and appears not to have taken office.
The Legacy of Dracula:
Despite his close working relationship with his colleague and brother Freemason, Irving, the biographers intimate that Stoker held a secret and latent resentment against Irving which may have contributed to the development of the character Dracula, which was his Magnus Opum.
Undoubtedly Irving was a success story and Stoker may have seen himself very much a side act in the scheme of things.
Anthony George, AKA Charlie Faulkner, was a rugby legend who embodied the spirit of Wales and the British and Irish Lions. His passing earlier this year left a void in the hearts of rugby enthusiasts worldwide. He was a formidable force on the field and a proud Freemason who carried the principles of brotherhood and unity beyond the rugby pitch.
Born in Newport in 1941, Tony Faulkner's rugby journey began at a young age, and his talent quickly became evident. He earned his place in the national team, representing Wales with unwavering dedication and skill. Tony's contributions to the British Lions were equally remarkable, as he played a pivotal role in their successes on tours against formidable opponents from across the globe.
Off the field, Tony Faulkner was an active Freemason, a testament to his commitment to the values of fellowship, charity, and self-improvement. Tony was proposed by his cousin, Vince White and Initiated into Roderick Hill Lodge on the 13th of May 2013. Many Freemasons from the Pontypool lodges were present on his Initiation, particularly members from Trevethin Lodge —fellow member of the Pontypool Front Row and Freemason Graham Price was also in attendance. It was a splendid celebration and a wonderful evening for Roderick Hill Lodge.
Tony was Passed on the 9th of September 2013 and Raised on the 11th of November 2013. He remained an active member until illness prevented him from attending. His involvement in Freemasonry symbolised his belief in building strong bonds of friendship and mutual support, values that resonated with his rugby career and life.
Tony was writing his autobiography when he passed, which will now serve as a tribute to his achievements and a source of inspiration for future generations. The book delves into the highs and lows of his journey, capturing the essence of his dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport. It also sheds light on the profound influence his Freemasonry principles had on his life on and off the field, demonstrating how these values guided him to become a rugby icon and a beloved figure in his community.
This unique meeting was brought to fruition due to the Formula One Lodge’s hectic schedule and a shared connection: Terry Hall, who holds the esteemed position of Director of Ceremonies in both lodges.
Posted: 25 September 2023
Recently, a Second Degree ceremony marked a significant and memorable occasion as members of Formula One Lodge (f1lodge.com) gathered to attend Spirit of Rugby Lodge, which had graciously agreed to host the ceremony for Carlo Trevison. . Situated in the picturesque town of Sittingbourne, Kent, the meeting unfolded within the welcoming confines of Spirit of Rugby Lodge.
Spirit of Rugby Lodge, born in 2016, has experienced a remarkable journey, infusing various rugby-themed customs and traditions into its activities. The Lodge has established a distinct identity from adorning rugby hats during the festive board to substituting gavels with referee’s whistles. The departure of visitors and guests is likened to a rugby line-out, adding a touch of sporting flair to their gatherings. At the same time, a lively raffle contributed to the overall camaraderie.
This unique meeting was brought to fruition due to the Formula One Lodge’s hectic schedule and a shared connection: Terry Hall, who holds the esteemed position of Director of Ceremonies in both lodges.
Posted: 25 September 2023
Recently, a Second Degree ceremony marked a significant and memorable occasion as members of Formula One Lodge (f1lodge.com) gathered to attend Spirit of Rugby Lodge, which had graciously agreed to host the ceremony for Carlo Trevison. . Situated in the picturesque town of Sittingbourne, Kent, the meeting unfolded within the welcoming confines of Spirit of Rugby Lodge.
Spirit of Rugby Lodge, born in 2016, has experienced a remarkable journey, infusing various rugby-themed customs and traditions into its activities. The Lodge has established a distinct identity from adorning rugby hats during the festive board to substituting gavels with referee’s whistles. The departure of visitors and guests is likened to a rugby line-out, adding a touch of sporting flair to their gatherings. At the same time, a lively raffle contributed to the overall camaraderie.
You may not realise that Freemasonry is made of a number of different 'Progressive Orders'. This series will explain these various Orders
You may not realise that Freemasonry is made of a number of different 'Progressive Orders'. This series will explain these various Orders and how they are linked.
Knights Templar and Knights of Malta
The full title of this Order is The United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes, and Malta, in England and Wales and its Provinces Overseas. It is more familiarly known as ‘KT’.
Knights Templar meetings are held in Preceptories and under the authority of its warrant, Knights of Malta meetings in Priories are also held.
Qualification for joining is that a candidate must be a Royal Arch Mason and believe in the Trinitarian Faith. The joining ceremony is called ‘Installation’.
The regalia is based on that of a Templar Knight and consists of a cap, tunic, mantle, sash, belt and sword. The Malta regalia is similar but the tunic is red and mantle and cap are black.
The Order is based on the actions of a band of Knights who were granted a place of habitation within the sacred precincts of King Solomon’s Temple. The candidate is admitted as a pilgrim and undergoes a period of pilgrimage and warfare then penance and meditation before being made a Knight of the Temple.
Knights Templar and Knights of Malta
The full title of this Order is The United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes, and Malta, in England and Wales and its Provinces Overseas. It is more familiarly known as ‘KT’.
Knights Templar meetings are held in Preceptories and under the authority of its warrant, Knights of Malta meetings in Priories are also held.
Qualification for joining is that a candidate must be a Royal Arch Mason and believe in the Trinitarian Faith. The joining ceremony is called ‘Installation’.
The regalia is based on that of a Templar Knight and consists of a cap, tunic, mantle, sash, belt and sword. The Malta regalia is similar but the tunic is red and mantle and cap are black.
The Order is based on the actions of a band of Knights who were granted a place of habitation within the sacred precincts of King Solomon’s Temple. The candidate is admitted as a pilgrim and undergoes a period of pilgrimage and warfare then penance and meditation before being made a Knight of the Temple.
You can find out more about this order here: https://www.markmasonshall.org/orders/knights-templar
If you would like to start your journey into Freemasonry please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/joinAfter filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.
Posted: 22 September 2023
The Discover More booklet, produced by Supreme Grand Chapter, is designed to introduce Master Masons and others to the Royal Arch.
It has been created by a number of Royal Arch Companions and extensive work has gone into identifying the key messaging. It is also being shared with Provinces for distribution in order to maximise its use. So far, take up has been superb.
The new ‘Strategy for Freemasonry 2022 and Beyond’ makes it clear that we are one organisation and reinforces the indissoluble link between the Craft and the Royal Arch. When the Antient and Modern Grand Lodges came together to form the United Grand Lodge of England in 1813, they declared that ‘Pure Antient Masonry’ consists of three degrees - the Entered Apprentice, the Fellow Craft, and the Master Mason, including the Royal Arch.
The Discover More booklet, produced by Supreme Grand Chapter, is designed to introduce Master Masons and others
Posted: 21 September 2023
Eastor Lodge members decided to set themselves the challenge of hiking up Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon over three days in June to raise money for local charities.
The group is hoping to raise funds through both their JustGiving page and the Herefordshire Masonic Charity Association for two charities: the Ledbury Food Bank, which helps families in hardship, and for We are Farming Minds who help to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the farming community.
As Freemasons, caring and supporting the local community is central to our purpose and as many in the current climate are in need of support, Herefordshire Freemasons would like to do their part!
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Posted: 21 September 2023
St Cyngar Lodge No. 5323 has donated £3,250 to Guide Dogs Cymru and has had the honour of naming a puppy Mason.
Members hosted a fundraiser in support of the charity, raising more than £1,300. The evening was attended by over 50 guests. WM Royston Slater-Mason presented a cheque to Guide Dogs Cymru on behalf of members, supported by the North Wales Freemasons Charity (NWFC).
Rob Armstrong, group coordinator and treasurer for Guide Dogs Gwynedd said,
‘We’d like to thank St Cyngar Lodge for their generous donation to Guide Dogs Cymru. Donations like this have supported some amazing guide dog partnerships in Gwynedd, and this support will help the charity to train even more life-changing dogs.
Posted: 21 September 2023
On a sunny day in June, a group of Somerset Freemasons partnered with the Somerset Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) on their inaugural bike ride. Joined by DofE participants from Haygrove School and King’s College, they took on a 30-mile cycle ride along the Bridgwater and Taunton canal.
Two members of On Your Bike also joined the group to ensure help was at hand for any mechanical issues.
On Your Bike is a charity that has benefited previously from Masonic fundraising and they were more than happy to get involved. The group started at King’s College Taunton, then cycled along the canal to Bridgwater Masonic Lodge where the students met with participants from Haygrove School. All parties enjoyed refreshments and a tour of the Lodge, taking in the fascinating history and Temple Room with a brief overview from Richard Winter.
Eastor Lodge members decided to set themselves the challenge of hiking up Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon ov
Posted: 21 September 2023
Eastor Lodge members decided to set themselves the challenge of hiking up Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon over three days in June to raise money for local charities.
The group is hoping to raise funds through both their JustGiving page and the Herefordshire Masonic Charity Association for two charities: the Ledbury Food Bank, which helps families in hardship, and for We are Farming Minds who help to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the farming community.
As Freemasons, caring and supporting the local community is central to our purpose and as many in the current climate are in need of support, Herefordshire Freemasons would like to do their part!
Related
Latest
Posted: 21 September 2023
St Cyngar Lodge No. 5323 has donated £3,250 to Guide Dogs Cymru and has had the honour of naming a puppy Mason.
Members hosted a fundraiser in support of the charity, raising more than £1,300. The evening was attended by over 50 guests. WM Royston Slater-Mason presented a cheque to Guide Dogs Cymru on behalf of members, supported by the North Wales Freemasons Charity (NWFC).
Rob Armstrong, group coordinator and treasurer for Guide Dogs Gwynedd said,
‘We’d like to thank St Cyngar Lodge for their generous donation to Guide Dogs Cymru. Donations like this have supported some amazing guide dog partnerships in Gwynedd, and this support will help the charity to train even more life-changing dogs.
Posted: 21 September 2023
This First Grand Principal’s Jewel was made for Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1874 by HT Lamb and Co, London. The 18ct gold jewel follows the official Royal Arch design – an Eastern Crown on a sunburst between compasses, under which are suspended three interlaced triangles.
In addition, the jewel is surmounted by a Royal Crown of gold and red enamel. Both crowns are decorated with diamonds and pink sapphires, while a larger diamond decorates the hinge of the compasses. The jewel is part of a collection of the Prince of Wales’s regalia looked after by the Museum of Freemasonry.
The future Edward VII was installed as First Grand Principal of the Supreme Grand Chapter of England on 5 May 1875 and ruled the Royal Arch until he became King in 1901. Curiously, the Prince was not a member of a Royal Arch Chapter in this country when he was installed as First Grand Principal, but qualified because he was initiated in Sweden in 1868, and was therefore a member of all the degrees of the Swedish Rite, including the Royal Arch.
This First Grand Principal’s Jewel was made for Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1874 by HT Lamb and Co, Londo
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