Wednesday the 16th of July was a truly special and rare event in the life of our Province - the Reponement of Loyalty Lodge No. 914, which took place at the Guildford Masonic Centre.
A Distinguished Ceremony
This distinguished ceremony, led by our Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. John French, marked the renewal and rededication of Loyalty Lodge, with a heartfelt emphasis on the Almoner’s role, a symbol of our enduring commitment to compassion, care, and brotherly support.
While most Brethren were having coffee in the lounge and catching up with old friends, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies and his team were busy rehearsing in the Temple.
Bringing the Lodge Out of Abeyance
The RW Provincial Grand Master opened a Lodge of Mark Master Masons to formally bring the Loyalty Lodge of Mark Master Masons No.914 out of Abeyance.
A Dispensation was read by the Provincial Grand Secretary for the Installation of the Worshipful Master Designate and the appointment and investiture of the Senior and Junior Wardens Designate.
The RW Provincial Grand Master installed W.Bro. John Coleman, Worshipful Master Designate, as Worshipful Master of the Loyalty Lodge of Mark Master Masons No.914.
Officers Invested
V.W.Bro. David Blackburn was invested as Senior Warden and W.Bro. Garth Blanchard was invested as Junior Warden. A ballot was taken for Joining Members and Honorary Members of the Lodge. The Officers for the year 2025/26 were then appointed and invested.
V.W.Bro. David Blackburn was declared Worshipful Master for the ensuing year and W.Bro. Barrie Selway was declared Treasurer.
Celebration
The Lodge was closed and the Brethren of Loyalty Lodge of Mark Master Masons and their guests retired for refreshments before sitting down to an enjoyable meal together at the South West Surrey Masonic Centre.
The Heart of the Lodge: The Almoner’s Role
The ceremony placed special emphasis on the Almoner’s role. As highlighted during the event, an Almoner’s duty is more than a title. It’s about:
- Staying in touch with every Brother
- Checking in on their wellbeing
- Offering comfort, support, and connection
- Reminding them that their presence matters
The Almoner’s heart jewel - a representation of a script purse with a heart on it - signifies the Almoner’s role in caring for the needy members of the Lodge and their families, with a focus on providing support and assistance.
As was emphasised during this special ceremony: “We are all Almoners - each of us has the power to care for our Brethren.”