What goes on in a Lodge Meeting? 

Our meetings are private and only open to members, in this way, they are no different to many other clubs and organisations. Freemasonry draws upon the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who travelled the country seeking work. Often being illiterate, they could not rely on written certificates to prove their qualifications but used instead “trade secrets” and certain words and actions. These practices continue to be used in our meetings today in the same way that we use passwords and PIN numbers to access websites and bank accounts.

There are three dramas or ‘degree ceremonies’ performed during masonic meetings. Think of them as one-act plays. They help members to reflect on how to be better people. Each play represents a different stage in life.

New members start as an ‘initiate’ or Entered Apprentice, Freemasons are taught we are all born equal, we learn that in life some do better than others and it is up to those that do well to look after the less fortunate. From this stems our belief in the importance of Service.

The next stage is to become a ‘Fellow Craft’ where Freemasons are taught the importance of improving yourself as a person, and finally as a ‘Master Mason’, where we learn that we have but one life, and the importance of using it wisely.

The details of the ceremonies can easily be accessed online, but nothing beats experiencing it for yourself. In that way, they have a greater impact. If you were recommended a detective novel, you wouldn’t like to be told at the beginning who did it. This is the same.

After the meetings members dine together informally to enjoy good food, good wine, and good company. And most importantly, to have fun together.

Closely linked and following on from the three lodge ceremonies is another stage known as the Royal Arch (or Chapter). This is the final stage in Pure Antient Masonry, as defined in the Act of Union of 1813 that created the current United Grand Lodge of England. Anyone who has been a Master Mason for four weeks can join—and should aspire to join the Royal Arch, because becoming a Companion of the Order continues their voyage of discovery.

Joining Royal Arch (Chapter) is called the Ceremony of Exaltation. This sees members follow the clues from the Third Degree to complete their journey in Pure Antient Masonry, in a spectacular and unforgettable ceremony.