We are in an enviable position unequalled across the country, where we have over 250 candidates lined up to join, some having seen the amazing work of our members during last year’s crisis but largely due to our new membership strategy and automated processes. A dedicated team of 26 members have kept these patient new candidates engaged throughout the pandemic. It seems only right that we should now cement their great work by giving these Initiates a historic day to remember.

On a Sunday, the first time in 300 years, Freemasons will meet. The United Grand Lodge have granted Buckinghamshire Freemasons the exclusive use of Freemasons Hall in London. The Grand Master has given his assent for the Rulers of the craft to temporarily suspend rule 139a and to allow us access to all 24 Lodge Rooms and the Grand Temple, to Initiate those candidates that have been waiting patiently to join over the last year.

Lodges will be invited to carry out the initiation of their own candidates throughout the day, with their own officers, in their own meetings, but with the historic opportunity to do so in one of the beautiful temples at Grand Lodge, giving your members the opportunity to open your own Buckinghamshire Lodge and welcome a new member in the Headquarters of Freemasonry. We only have to look at recent events in the media recognising us in a far more positive light, to realise we are attracting younger candidates and strengthening the future of our wonderful institution.

The Provincial Executive and I have been extremely proud to have worked alongside a committed team in the preparation of this unique event. Many are ‘light blue’ or newer members and this is part of our forward-thinking strategy and the realisation that these new members hold the keys to many of the challenges ahead of us. Those being initiated will join a group that will forge a unique bond which will remain throughout their masonic lives.

This unique day also presents us with the opportunity to open our Provincial Grand Lodge in the morning and give the Acting Provincial Officers of the last two years the chance to fulfil their roles within our Provincial meetings. The intention is to open Provincial Grand Lodge with the outgoing officers from last year 2019-20. We will then call off and proceed with the Individual Lodge Initiations throughout the day and then in the afternoon we will call back on and close Provincial Grand Lodge with this year’s Acting Provincial Officers. The meetings will finish with a final Lodge Initiation, when all those that have joined during the day will be invited to witness a very special ceremony. This will culminate in all the candidates receiving the charge together on the Grand Temple floor.

There will be some great entertainment throughout the day continuing into the Festive Board.

Those attending will have the choice to dine during the day in the Gallery Suite of Freemasons Hall, whilst others may choose to attend a Festive Board in the Vestibules outside the doors of the Grand Temple in the late afternoon; depending on numbers and availability. Some Lodges may choose to dine in one of the many venues around Queen Street, whilst others may simply choose to host a special festive board for their candidates at their Lodge’s next regular meeting.

Lodges should be encouraged to organise transport together, and those wishing to drive into London can park close by our headquarters at discounted rates, when presenting their tickets at Grand Lodge reception desk. There should be plenty of parking within 5 minutes walk, with London being generally quieter on a Sunday. Alternatively look at group bookings on trains to maximise discounted rates, or get your centres to arrange coaches.

Brethren, this maybe one small first step for the initiates, but it’s a giant leap for freemasonry……….so please remember when deciding to attend or not…..it will be a once in a lifetime historic opportunity for your Candidates and Lodges.

Sincerely & fraternally

W. Bro Bill Smithson
Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies