News - Blog - Page 19

BUCKS FREEMASONS HOSTS ITS FIRST SUCCESSFUL BRING A FRIEND EVENT!

On Wednesday 25th October, Buckinghamshire hosted a bring a friend event at Slough Masonic Centre. There were over 75 filling the centre to the brim with masons and families in attendance, 44 of which being interested candidates.

After a short reception we sat down for a presentation from a wealth of experienced speakers that are Freemasons. The first of which being an introduction by Deputy Provincial Grand Master Neil Robertson, who explained who he is and gave a great insight into what Freemasonry is. The Assistant Provincial Comms Officer Lee Buckingham, followed, explaining the details of who we are, our beliefs, rules and priorities that are so important to us. Provincial Membership Officer John Palman followed explaining the details of what goes on at lodge meetings, including the meeting agenda, ceremony and the all important festive board (dinner!).
PAPGM Phil Blacklaw followed explaining the vast amount of contribution Freemasonry in Bucks has made in recent years, also emphasising that your time is just as important as your donation when trying to make a difference. The evening was rounded up with a closing speech and Q&A with PGM John Clark.

The evening was then finished with an exciting tour of our temple, showcasing the recently installed Project Transform lights, which are now at most of our centres. Every single attendee signed up on the evening making this an outstanding success.

Buckinghamshire will be holding a similar event in Bletchley soon, so stay tuned!

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
After filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.

WYCOMBE'S 150 YEAR BANNER DEDICATION

On Wednesday 18th October, Wycombe Lodge celebrated 150 years with a rededication of their banner.
With over 50 in attendance it was night to remember with a suitable cake to mark the occasion.

Wycombe Lodge Number 1501 was consecrated on 1st July 1874 at High Wycombe Town Hall, the daughter lodge of Windsor Castle Lodge 771. When consecrated, it was a lodge withing the then combined province of Berkshire & Buckinghamshire.

If you would like to start your journey into Freemasonry please join us by following this link: https://mtr.cool/esnavfktjn

After filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.

On Sunday 15th October, “The Stephens Walk” took place in Hambleden to mark the One Year Anniversary of Stephens Lodge - the Provincial Walking Lodge

An enjoyable Sunday morning of incredible views and landmarks such as Culham Court on the Thames path, followed by a lovely lunch in the Stag and Huntsman.

The lodge would like to take the time to thank every person who has come along to support the lodge and it’s special interest by laughing, eating and rambling with us for an entire year.
Here’s to another �»

The next walk will be on Sunday 19th November and will be another scenic tour around Frieth, with a *free* bacon roll and drinks at the end.

Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to get involved!!

If you would like to start your journey into Freemasonry please join us by following this link: https://mtr.cool/netqlfupsu

After filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.

JOIN FREEMASONS IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Have you ever been interested in Freemasonry?

Now is the time to GET INVOLVED

On Wednesday 25th October we are holding a free-to-attend Join the Freemasons event in Slough Masonic Centre on Ragstone Road on Wednesday 25th October starting at 7 pm.

The Join the Freemasons event will be evening of conversation and discovery. We've planned an insightful tour, engaging presentations, and interactive sessions where your questions about Freemasonry will be warmly addressed.

Plus, there will be a complimentary buffet to enjoy in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. If what you learn resonates with you, our membership team will be on hand to guide you through the next steps of your Freemasonry journey.

This is a great chance to ask any questions you may have.

MEN BEHIND THE MYSTERY

Richard Pryor

The first recipient of the prestigious annual Mark Twain Humor Prize in 1998, Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor III was an influential and popular American comedian.

A veteran of 40 films between 1967 and 1991, he has been featured in four films, Live and Smokin', Richard Pryor Live in Concert, Richard Pryor Live on Sunset Strip, and Here and Now. His recordings have earned him two platinum albums, five gold albums, and five Grammys.

Pryor spent a short time in the U.S. Military from 1958 to 1960.

While living in Peoria in the early 1980's Pryor would join Henry Brown Lodge No. 22.

In 1963 Pryor moved to New York and began appearing regularly in Night Clubs with artists such as Bob Dylan and performers such as Woody Allen. At the time Pryor was inspired by Bill Cosby and his comedy was more middlebrow in comparison to the material that he would use later in his career.

Over 28,000 Poppies boxed up today!

BIG thanks to Brickhill Lodge, Emergency Services and Longueville Lodge for Volunteering to help today.
Now we need a few volunteers to deliver them.

If you would like to start your journey into Freemasonry please join us by following this link: https://mtr.cool/wckxknugby
After filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.

Fun & Laughter at Hughenden Lodge (the craft beer special interest lodge), on Friday 13th October

Following the ceremony the Brethren had an Oktoberfest themed Festive Board with tomatencremesuppe, German Goulash and a dessert of apple strudel.

Home brewed Pils was drunk with the meal and a guest Paulaner beer at the bar.

The new master announced his main charities for the year would be Thames Valley Air Ambulance and Florence Nightingale House Hospice in Aylesbury.

£250 was raised in the raffle.

The Hall Stone Province Celebrates in Style!

On Saturday 7th October 2023, the annual meeting of Buckinghamshire Freemasons was held in Freemasons’ Hall in London.

The meeting was attended by 650 members, their wives, partners and family along with the heads of many other Provinces for the highlight of the Masonic year.

The head of Freemasonry in Buckinghamshire had the pleasure of appointing a new deputy and a new assistant to join the existing team of Executives.

Various other officers were also appointed to assist in the smooth running of the Province with awards presented for outstanding work throughout the Province and in the Community.

Buckinghamshire is at the forefront of innovative ideas including the new Project Transform light and sound system along with initiatives such as “Bring a Friend” to introduce new members and the “Twelve Days of Christmas” to enable more members to join.

Buckinghamshire lead the way in special interest Lodges including Rugby, Curry, Wine, Cricket, Classic Car, Motorbike, Caravan, Beer and Shooting meaning there are many reasons to join.

Buckinghamshire Freemasons - 2023 AGM

Welcome to the 2023 AGM of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Buckinghamshire which took place on a Saturday for the first time to eliminate the need for our work

Provincial Grand Master's Address PGL 2023

Brethren,

Welcome to the 2023 AGM of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Buckinghamshire which is taking place on a Saturday for the first time to eliminate the need for our working members taking annual leave to attend. I extend a very warm welcome to over 650 friends, brethren, and honoured guests for coming to London to share today with us.

“This is a fantastic turnout for us, beating even the BIG day by 30 attendees.”

My personal thanks go to our partners for their support and my own thanks particularly to my wife Sarah for the many things she has given up these past 6 years to help me.

A great event is always delivered by a great team, and I thank Tim Anders, Ian Bailey, Bill Smithson, Steve Pratt and those who always help to make this day special. I thank the Provincial Grand Stewards for the work they do both here and during the year and our very hard-working XO’s and Visiting Officers.

ONE DAY TO GO!

It is 24 hours before the annual Provincial Grand Lodge Meeting of Buckinghamshire.
Provincial Grand Lodge is the highlight of the Masonic year, when members of the Province meet in London to hear the Provincial Grand Master's annual speech and select brothers are appointed and promoted for meritorious service. If you see members of your lodge receiving an award, be sure to cheer them on.
See you there friends.

Provincial Grand Lodge of Buckinghamshire - annual meeting

ONE DAY TO GO!It is 24 hours before the annual Provincial Grand Lodge Meeting of Buckinghamshire.Provincial Grand Lodge is the highlight of the Masonic year,

Pilgrims' Walk collected £31K for Florence Nightin...

Pilgrims' Walk collected £31K for Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity

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.
The walkers explain why they did it in their own words in this video: https://youtu.be/hiTtqa0M2rc

Pilgrims' Walk for Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity - extended

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

Pilgrims' Walk for Florence Nightingale Hospice Ch...

Pilgrims' Walk for Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity

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

MEN BEHIND THE MYSTERY

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.

The One and Only

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.

Two Lodges, One Bond

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.

One Step Beyond the Craft

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.

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.

Aprons Off: The Real Freemason

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

WANDSMAN OF ST PAULS CATHEDRAL
Name: Kevin Ogilvie
Age: 63
Location: Uxbridge
Joined: 2006
Lodge: Industria, Addington

Kevin is a Wandsman at St Paul's Cathedral. Kevin and the team welcome many tens of thousands of people to the cathedral from all over the world each year.
Kevin enjoys explaining certain aspects of the building, why only part of the ceiling is decorated, explaining the American chapel to our visitors from across the pond and at Christmas directing young Harry Potter fans to the concentric staircase which was used in some of the films. (it is normally closed to visitors). They also host large scale events such as the Queen's Platinum Jubilee and has been host to many famous ambassadors such as The Archbishop of Canterbury.

Kevin's favourite part of Freemasonry is helping and being there for others, in freemasonry we are constantly being encouraged to "be more conscious of the needs to others". It encourages you to be selfless, give to charitable causes (only what you can) and support others in their time of need.

Supporting each other is a large part of what Kevin enjoys in freemasonry. In Freemasonry, you are immediately made to feel welcome, there is a real sense of camaraderie and support that you won't find anywhere else.

Everyone is eager to support and help you on your journey. So why not join today.