The November regular meeting of “The Lodge of Merit” was a meeting with a difference. An information evening was held at Stamford Masonic Centre and attracted 38 visitors to swell the numbers attending to 68.
The Lodge was honoured to receive the APGM W.Bro Dale Gilbert who was welcomed into the Lodge by the WM, W.Bro Chris Needham along with his DC, W.Bro Rob Oliver. Also present was W.Bro John Ferguson, W.Bro. Stephen Wright – Stamford Senior Group Officer and W.Bro Andy Leeson – Stamford Group Officer.
The Lodge was opened, and with the business of the evening completed in short time the Lodge was closed. The guests were admitted which included the Lady Deputy Mayor of Stamford Mrs Jane Kingman, along with Brother Grace Tidbury a Northampton Lady Freemason. Following a welcome by the WM the Brethren and visitors were treated to a fascinating and informative insight into Freemasonry which was also beneficial to many of the brethren.
The evening was narrated by W.Bro John Ferguson who set the scene and explained what Freemasonry is and the purpose of the information evening.
This was followed by an address from the APGM who further explained Freemasonry, with a personal reflection on what it means to him. The APGM went on to explain the dress and meaning of the different aprons and regalia on show.
W.Bro Gordon Campbell (DC of The Lodge of Merit) then followed with his Masonic story, what it means to him and, what he gets from membership of our organisation. W.Bro Gordon served in the British Army and he explained how Freemasonry replaced the camaraderie and sense of belonging that he had in the military at the end of his service.
We then had a presentation from Bro. Tim Parish who is one of our newest Master Masons who spent the summer hiking 500 miles in the Pyrenees raising in excess of £2000 for cancer charities with much of this coming from his masonic brethren. Bro Tim then went on to explain what he has gained from joining the lodge.
Bro. Tim was followed by Bro. Grace Tidbury. Yes, Lady Freemasons are also Brothers. Bro Grace explained the differences between men’s and women’s Freemasonry and not surprisingly the differences are very little. Bro Grace is an extremely passionate Lady Mason and gave us an in depth insight into what Freemasonry means to her. The audience were fascinated by her talk especially the ladies that were present.
Finally W.Bro Richard White (IPM of The Lodge of Merit) gave a presentation on his 32 year masonic journey and how it was impacted by his 35 year military career in the Royal Air Force. This was followed by an explanation of the Honours Boards and the significance of each Craft Lodge meeting at Stamford Centre.
Following final words from the WM the Lodge Officers left in procession as an example to the visitors of our ceremonial.
It was wonderful to see a packed dining room at the Festive Board with much chat, laughter, and explaining and answering of questions. The taking of wine and toasts were explained during and after the meal with the visitors responding well.
The WM thanked the brethren for their help in making the event a huge success, and particularly the team from Province for their assistance. However, the credit has to go to the Worshipful Master for his drive and dedication in making this a success.
Ultimately the success of the evening will be seen from the number of initiates. However early indications show that we have at least nine (Yes,NINE) almost certain to join either “The Lodge of Merit” or “Chetene Lodge” with two of those completing their application today. In addition, there was a potential joining member present.
To top it all, a member of a London Lodge, who lives in Stamford came to the door and asked for further information on Stamford Masonry.
This event has certainly been a huge success and will definitely be in the calendar for next year.