Last night, two of us from Sudlington Bridge Lodge had the distinct pleasure of visiting the Endeavour Lodge for Norwood and Ravenswood, as guests of the Worshipful Master.
Visiting is one of the great joys of Freemasonry, but this evening proved to be something truly special and memorable.
The main event of the evening was a triple passing ceremony to the Second Degree. I have never had the privilege of witnessing three Brethren being passed to the degree of a Fellow Craft in a single ceremony.
The ritual was simply amazing. What made it particularly wonderful was how various parts were shared among the officers and brethren of the lodge. This not only ensured a flawless and heartfelt ceremony but also demonstrated a beautiful sense of teamwork and shared purpose.
While the specifics of our ceremonies are a secret we hold dear, I can say that each of the three candidates was given the time and focus to fully appreciate the moment. There was no rush; each step was delivered with sincerity and meaning, making it a profound experience not just for the candidates, but for everyone in the room.
After the ceremony, we retired for the Festive Board, and the fellowship continued to flow. The meal was superb, highlighted by some of the best beef sausages I have ever had! Beyond the excellent food, the spirit of charity was alive and well. A raffle held during the meal raised over £500 for a local charity, a fantastic achievement and a testament to the generosity of all present.
One of the things I love most about visiting a Metropolitan lodge like Endeavour is the sheer number and variety of visitors. The room was a vibrant tapestry of Freemasonry, with brethren from lodges I had never even heard of. The age range was just as broad, with Masons from their early 20s sharing a table with esteemed members in their 90s.
This, for me, is the best part of Freemasonry: hearing the stories and making genuine connections. I was seated next to a fascinating Brother who runs his own business in neurodivergent training and awareness. Listening to his journey of leaving the corporate world to bravely build something he was truly passionate about was inspiring. It was a powerful reminder that our fraternity is filled with individuals from all walks of life, each with a unique and valuable story.
Across the table was a 95-year-old Mason whom I am always overjoyed to see. This distinguished Brother delivered a reading at my own Third Degree ceremony, a moment that I hold close to my heart. Every time we meet, I make sure to tell him how much that meant to me and how much I still value it.
These personal bonds, forged in mutual respect and shared experience, are the true treasures of the Craft.
It was an evening that perfectly encapsulated what makes Freemasonry so special: beautiful ritual, warm fellowship, a commitment to charity, and the creation of lasting, meaningful connections.
We left with full stomachs, happy hearts, and a renewed appreciation for the wonderful fraternity we are all a part of. We can't wait to visit again.
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