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Welcome

A Welcome from
RW Bro John French

RW Bro John V. C. French, Provincial Grand Master of Surrey
Welcome to Surrey Mark Masonry, often described, and proudly so, as the friendly degree.

To those who have recently been advanced into the Mark Degree here in Surrey, my warmest and most heartfelt congratulations. Your advancement is far more than a ceremony; it is a meaningful milestone in your Masonic journey. I hope you left the Lodge not only with a deeper understanding of your own worth, but also with something equally important: a genuine sense of belonging and a very large smile on your face.

When I first joined Mark Masonry, I was told it was friendly, relaxed, and immensely enjoyable. I was assured I would value the ceremony and the companionship in equal measure and that I would leave glad I had joined. I am pleased to say that proved entirely true. The ceremony is thoughtful and purposeful, yet delivered in a spirit of warmth, good humour, and fellowship that immediately makes a Brother feel at home.

That balance is what makes the Mark Degree special. We take our Masonry seriously, but we do not take ourselves too seriously. We uphold our traditions with dignity and pride, while also valuing laughter, shared experiences, and the strengthening of real and lasting friendships.

At the heart of Surrey Mark is companionship.

We are an Order where friendships flourish, where support is genuine, and where every Brother's contribution matters. Whether newly advanced or long established, you are not simply attending meetings - you are part of a community.

To our newer Brethren, I want to offer reassurance: you have made an excellent decision. We are committed to ensuring you feel informed, involved, and confident in your Mark journey. There are opportunities to learn ritual, to serve in office, to attend social and charitable events, and to grow at a pace that suits you. Above all, we want you to enjoy your Masonry and to feel proud of your place within it.

To our more experienced members, your enthusiasm and example set the tone. Progression in Surrey Mark is not simply about rank; it is about leadership, encouragement, and fostering the friendly spirit that defines us. Your willingness to mentor, participate, and step forward ensures that our Province remains vibrant and welcoming for those who follow.

For Master Masons who may be exploring what the Mark Degree offers, I warmly encourage you to take that next step. The Mark enriches and completes your Masonic story in a uniquely rewarding way, combining meaning with enjoyment and tradition with friendship. Speak to your Lodge Secretary, a Surrey Mark Mason you know, or visit our contact page to learn more. We would be delighted to welcome you into our Order.

The continued strength of Surrey Mark rests on three simple principles:

  • Welcoming good men with sincerity
  • Supporting them with clarity and purpose
  • Providing meaningful opportunities to belong, contribute, and progress

I am privileged to be supported by a dedicated Provincial team focused on membership, communications, and events, ensuring that our Province remains visible, supportive, and forward-looking. Together, we are strengthening leadership, enhancing communication, and creating clear pathways for involvement so that every Brother understands how he can play his part.

This website is an invitation.

An invitation to engage. To participate. To progress. To belong.

Surrey Mark has a proud history, but its future will be shaped by the energy, friendship, and commitment of its members, present and future alike.

Thank you for being part of our friendly degree.

I look forward to meeting you in Lodge soon, sharing both good work and good company together. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can offer any help or support in any way.

With warmest good wishes - Mark Well.

RW Bro John French
Provincial Grand Master
Province of Surrey