FEEL GOOD FRIDAY!

Once again, Buckinghamshire Freemasonry has shown that it can do something different, creative, and truly memorable.

On Saturday 27th September, an extraordinary gathering took place when brethren from the three sports lodges – Football, Rugby, and Cricket came together for a very special joint meeting. Each of these lodges brings its own character, energy, and fun interpretation to Freemasonry, and the aim of this occasion was not only to celebrate that uniqueness but also to strengthen ties between them, fostering friendships and mutual support for the future.

The meeting began promptly at 2:45p.m. with the Football Lodge opening proceedings. In a lively and memorable ceremony, Brother James Robinson was initiated into the Craft. A passionate Liverpool supporter, James was led around the temple accompanied by the stirring melodies of You’ll Never Walk Alone and Ferry Across the Mersey. Thanks to the superb sound system at the Slough Masonic Centre, the ceremony took on an atmosphere of both dignity and joy, reflecting the spirit of the lodge and leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

No sooner had the Football Lodge concluded their business than the Rugby Lodge took to the floor. They, too, used the occasion to initiate a new brother, welcoming Brother Ahmet Boz into their ranks. The Rugby brethren had embraced the day as a full “away fixture” and turned out in great numbers to support their candidate. Both James and Ahmet were later treated to a word-perfect delivery of the Charge by Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W. Bro. Matt Perkins, whose polished and heartfelt words added further gravitas to an already impressive occasion. The temple was filled with nearly 70 brethren, and the packed attendance amplified the sense of occasion and celebration.

With the formalities complete, the brethren retired to the bar where the festive board took on an informal, relaxed, and thoroughly enjoyable tone. Instead of the traditional meal, guests were treated to a casual feast of burgers, hot dogs, and pizza – a true sports lodge banquet. To top it off, a professional concert pianist entertained throughout, adding a touch of elegance and making the afternoon feel all the more special.

What stood out most was the spirit of togetherness. Lodges came together, supported one another, and demonstrated that Freemasonry thrives when it embraces creativity and community spirit. This was Freemasonry with a modern, light-hearted twist – yet still steeped in tradition and brotherhood.

For those wishing to experience these vibrant lodges for themselves, there are fixtures already in the calendar. The Rugby Lodge will hold an emergency meeting at the Bletchley Masonic Centre on 21st November, while the Football Lodge meets again on Saturday 25th October at Chesham Football Club – a gathering which will include the Aylesbury United v Hadley match as part of the day’s events.

Buckinghamshire is proving, once again, that Freemasonry is alive, well, and always ready to try something new.

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