Yesterday, members of the North East Corner Club attended the inaugural Light Blues Quarterly Communication at Freemasons’ Hall, London. Alongside over 1,600 fellow Light Blues, we enjoyed inspiring presentations and witnessed the splendour of Grand Officers in full dress regalia.

It was an honour for the PGM, Grand Superintendent, and Provincial Mentor to accompany Buckinghamshire’s Fellowcrafts and Master Masons to this historic celebration—an event marking the future of Freemasonry.

The day offered a fantastic opportunity to network, socialise, and experience something truly special. Our Hallstone contingent also visited Room 17—the Buckinghamshire Room—for a 360° selfie with Light Blues Clubs from Warwickshire and Worcestershire.

A huge thank you to the UGLE team for delivering such a memorable and uplifting experience!

The Importance of the Plumb Rule in Freemasonry

The Plumb Rule is a significant symbol in Freemasonry, embodying the principles of uprightness, integrity, and moral conduct. This tool, traditionally used in construction to ensure that structures are perfectly vertical, serves as a powerful metaphor for the ethical standards that Freemasons strive to uphold in their lives.

At its core, the Plumb Rule serves as a reminder for Masons to act with honesty and integrity in all aspects of their lives. Just as the tool ensures that buildings are constructed straight and true, Masons are encouraged to align their actions with ethical principles, promoting a life of moral uprightness.

Moreover, the Plumb Rule signifies the importance of living justly. It encourages Masons to evaluate their decisions and behaviours, ensuring they are fair and just in their dealings with others. This commitment to ethical behaviour fosters trust and respect in relationships, both within the Lodge and in everyday interactions.

The Plumb Rule also symbolizes personal development and self-reflection. Masons are urged to assess their actions continually and strive for improvement, maintaining a moral compass that guides their lives.

In summary, the Plumb Rule is a powerful symbol that underscores the values of integrity, moral uprightness, and personal growth within Freemasonry. It serves as a guiding principle for members, reminding them to reflect the highest standards of moral conduct in all their interactions and decisions.

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

Last night at Methuen Lodge No. 631 Buckinghamshire had a time line presence.

Current Provincial Grand Master, Tim Anders, stood alongside the three past provincial Grand Masters of Buckinghamshire - John Clark (2018~2025), Gordon Robertson (2011~2018) & Ray Reed (2005~2011).  

Although the meeting was just a normal scheduled event, the rare gathering of a historical timeline was something that needed to be captured.

The friendship and bond of the senior leadership within the province of Buckinghamshire is something to be very proud of.  Past leaders celebrating their successors appointment and on hand to share valuable experience and advise.

So, what is the history of Methuen Lodge?

The Lodge was consecrated at Swindon in the Province of Wiltshire, on 24th May 1854, by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Sir Daniel Gooch, Bt.
Lord Methuen, Provincial Grand Master (from 1853) was installed as the first Master.
From the outset, the Lodge existed for Wiltshire masons who wanted a lodge with a standard of comfort, dignity and good living, comparable to some of the best London Lodges.
The promoters had said that they did not want a lot of masonic work but that they would enjoy a first class, civilised dinner, with good wine to drink and, even, cigars to smoke.

It became a Buckinghamshire Lodge when the combined provinces were separated in 1890.

The Lodge has never owned a Banner and the only record of any badge is on the Summons of May 1938, the minutes of which stated that a discussion about the badge ensued and it was agreed that it should not be used in the future.

The Lodge includes the MW Pro Grand Master, the RW Deputy Grand Master, the President of the Board of General Purposes, and the Grand Treasurer. Additionally, it has become customary to invite the Provincial Grand Masters of Berks, Bucks, and Oxon to become joining members.

The Lodge still meets three times per year, twice in Marlow (dining at The Leander Club, in Henley-on-Thames) and once in London, at 10 Duke Street, with dinner at a nearby gentleman’s club.

The Leander Club was founded in 1818 and boasts an unsurpassed record of rowing achievements. It is home to heroes such as Sir Steve Redgrave CBE and Sir Matthew Pinsent CBE, triple gold medalist Peter Reed OBE, and double gold medalists James Cracknell OBE, Steve Williams OBE, and Alex Gregory MBE, as well as the champions of tomorrow.

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

The Significance of the Level in Freemasonry

The Level is a vital symbol in Freemasonry, embodying the principles of equality and fairness that are central to the fraternity. This emblem serves as a reminder that all Masons are equal, regardless of their social status, wealth, or background.

This foundational belief promotes a strong sense of brotherhood and unity among members, reinforcing the idea that everyone is valued equally within the Lodge.
In addition to symbolising equality, the Level encourages Masons to conduct themselves with integrity and honesty in all their dealings.

It serves as a guiding principle, urging members to treat others fairly and justly, thereby emphasising the importance of ethical behaviour in both personal and communal interactions.

The Level also represents the foundation of relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. It encourages Masons to foster harmonious interactions, not only within the Lodge but also in their everyday lives.

This commitment to fairness extends beyond the fraternity, promoting a culture of respect in all areas of life.

Furthermore, the Level highlights the importance of self-reflection and personal growth. Masons are encouraged to evaluate their actions and ensure they align with the values of fairness and equality, fostering continuous improvement.

In summary, the Level is a powerful symbol that underscores the values of equality, integrity, and mutual respect within Freemasonry. It guides members in their personal development and communal interactions, reinforcing the bonds of brotherhood that unite them in their shared journey.

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

On this day in 1943, 19 Lancasters of  617sqd left RAF Scampton led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson - The Dambusters.

Operation Chastise, commonly known as the Dambusters Raid, was an attack on German dams carried out on the night of 16/17 May 1943 by 617 Squadron RAF Bomber Command, later called the Dam Busters, using special bouncing bombs developed by Barnes Wallis.

The Möhne and Edersee dams were breached, causing catastrophic flooding of the Ruhr valley and of villages in the Eder valley; the Sorpe Dam sustained only minor damage.

Despite rapid repairs by the Germans, production did not return to normal until September. The RAF lost 56 aircrew, with 53 dead and three captured, amid losses of eight aircraft.

The legend of Saint George and the Dragon describes the saint taming and slaying a dragon that terrorised local communities. The story was known in Roman times but has its origins in Greek mythology.

We celebrate St. George's Day on April 23 — the anniversary of his death in 303 AD. The patron saint of England has captivated British imaginations since the Crusades and the Hundred Years' War.

The story of St. George is featured in tesserae mosaic tiles on the ceiling of Freemasons' Hall at  

We would like to give one final nod to our very own St. George's Lodge. They meet at Wolverton Masonic centre, and were first consecrated on 22nd April 1936 at the Science and Arts Institute in Wolverton. 

Freemasonry has an amazing history that spans over 300 years and is looking forward to the next 300 years.

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
After filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.

Victory in Europe Day, generally known as VE Day or V-E Day, was celebrated on Tuesday, 8 May 1945 to mark the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces.

The act of military surrender was first signed at 02:41 on 7 May in SHAEF HQ at Reims, and a slightly modified document was signed on 8 May 1945 in Berlin.

A day in history that we should never forget.

This morning, Adrian Marsh, the Grand Secretary of United Grand Lodge of England, alongside Tim Anders the Provincial Grand Master of Buckinghamshire  took to the sky in a Piper PA-28 Cherokee piloted by our very own Paul Brissenden-Hemstock.

Leaving RAF Halton to RAF Kemble for a planned lodge meeting of The Buckinghamshire Motorcycle Lodge. A huge “ride in” and in this instance a fly in too.

Buckinghamshire doing something different again.
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://f.mtr.cool/wcspcfkgxz

The All-Seeing Eye, often depicted as an eye within a triangle, is a powerful symbol found in various cultures and traditions, including Freemasonry. It represents the idea of divine providence and the omnipresence of a higher power. 

The All-Seeing Eye signifies that a higher power is always observing and aware of human actions. This serves as a reminder for individuals to act with integrity and morality, knowing they are accountable for their deeds.

The symbol also represents enlightenment and the pursuit of knowledge. It encourages individuals to seek wisdom and understanding, both of themselves and the universe around them.

The triangle surrounding the eye often signifies the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. It suggests that true understanding comes from harmonising these aspects of existence.

The All-Seeing Eye serves as a profound symbol of awareness, accountability, and the quest for spiritual enlightenment, encouraging individuals to live virtuous lives guided by a higher moral compass.

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

A lot of people from the Aylesbury Women’s Refuge (14 Women and 14 Children) will be getting a Chocolate treat this Easter thanks to the WM Ameet Doshi and the Brethren of Ferdinand De Rothschild Lodge 2420
Also a HUGE shout out to W Bro Tom Murtagh who supplied the mini chocolate eggs in the orange, green and pink bags from his company Walkers Chocolate.

From Mark Duncan, the Provincial Grand Charity Steward; "I attended an International Women’s Day celebration put on by the Women’s Aid Charity, some of the Ladies came up to me and said, “Are you the Pie Man” they didn’t know my name and were referring to the Covid period when Buckinghamshire Freemasons delivered pies to Bucks Young Carers, the elderly, the Women’s refuge and many more."

"They said the Women and staff were really grateful to local Freemasons when we took them fresh pies every week, they looked forward to our home cooked pies made by Shirley Cannings from Aylesbury Masonic Centre."

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

The Volume of the Sacred Law is a fundamental symbol in Freemasonry. It represents the moral and ethical guidance that Freemasons seek in their lives. For many Masons, this volume is the Bible, but it can also be any sacred text that holds significance for the individual, depending on their faith.

The Volume of the Sacred Law is central to Freemasonry, serving as a guide for moral conduct, a symbol of unity, and a reminder of the spiritual foundation upon which the fraternity is built.

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

When heart-breaking can be heart-warming.

On a glorious sunny Sunday morning in Buckinghamshire, 105 representatives of 57 Charities arrived at the Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury by Invitation of Buckinghamshire Freemasons. They were joined by the Mayors of Aylesbury, Milton Keynes, High Wycombe and Slough, who were accompanying The Chair of Bucks County Council Mimi Barker OBE, The High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire Pippa Kirkbride and both The Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Lady Elizabeth Howe CBE and her Deputy Roger Jefcoate CBE.

After 6 months of planning by our Provincial Grand Charity Steward, the day arrived. It was an opportunity for all the Charities to network with each other, sharing stories and comparing notes but also listening to the Impact statements of 16 impassioned speakers, who spoke bravely and informatively about their respective causes, as well as recognising the support of Buckinghamshire Freemasons on a local level in Bucks but also the importance of grants distributed by the Masonic Charitable Foundation on a Regional and National stage.
Relief, or what is generally known as Charity is one of the three keystones of Freemasonry , just as Humility is a characteristic synonymous with everything we do.

Both were in abundance, as Charity speakers talked and humble listeners heard about the importance of community in our lives and the involvement of Freemasons not just in the financial support of so many worthy causes, but also in the volunteering of time to help so many less fortunate than ourselves.

The four Worshipful Mayors and Chair of the County Council all spoke of the ever important role organisations like Freemasonry have to play in modern society, where government funding is stretched and so many Charities rely on local assistance to survive.

Lady Howe reiterated this as she spoke of the long history of giving by Masons to bolster the resilience of those needing help. It was indeed a day to feel humble yet proud of the community and our volunteers and fundraisers in Freemasonry
In summing up the event in his closing comments, The host and Provincial Grand Master of Buckinghamshire Tim Anders thanked the Charities for their tireless efforts and determination to give the unheard a voice and hope to the most fragile, with the assurance of the continued support of Buckinghamshire Masons for years to come.

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
      

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of touring the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) on the same day as the installation of the new Provincial Grand Master (PGM). This was a remarkable experience, as we were able to witness the grandeur of Freemasonry while also immersing ourselves in its rich history. The tour was conducted by Vinnie from UGLE and included about ten Fellowcraft (FC) and Entered Apprentice (EA) brethren.

Our journey began outside the museum, where we all gathered in anticipation of what lay ahead. The excitement among the brethren was palpable as we exchanged greetings and shared our expectations for the day. From there, we proceeded to the balcony overlooking the entrance to the Grand Temple. It was a spectacular sight to see the banners of the Buckinghamshire lodges and other provincial officers making their way into the Grand Temple for the installation ceremony. The sight of these historic banners and the dignified procession of officers emphasized the grandeur and deep-rooted traditions of our fraternity.

After taking in this impressive view, we commenced our official tour at the museum. The museum itself was an absolute treasure trove of Masonic history, filled with artifacts and documents that span centuries. Vinnie, our guide, provided a wealth of information, offering detailed explanations of various exhibits and answering all our questions with great enthusiasm. It was fascinating to learn about the evolution of Freemasonry and how it has played a role in shaping history.
One of the most awe-inspiring pieces we encountered was the enormous ceremonial throne that was made in 1791 for the then-Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. The sheer size of the throne was staggering, reflecting the high stature of the Royal Grand Master it was made for. Seeing such a grand artifact in person truly deepened my appreciation for the longstanding traditions and regal connections within Freemasonry.

After an enriching time in the museum, Vinnie led us through the various rooms within UGLE. We began with our own Buckinghamshire Room, where we felt a sense of pride and belonging. It was inspiring to see a space dedicated to our province and its contributions to the Craft. Following that, we visited the Charity Room, which highlighted the incredible charitable work that Freemasonry has accomplished over the years. This room served as a reminder of one of our core principles—helping those in need.

Perhaps the most visually stunning of all the rooms we visited was the Egyptian Room. It was fascinating to see how different architectural and artistic influences have found their way into Masonic traditions and meeting places.
Overall, the tour was an enlightening experience. Every single brother present enjoyed the opportunity to explore UGLE, and we all left with a deeper appreciation for our fraternity’s history, traditions, and values. We are incredibly grateful to the Province for organizing such a remarkable experience and for considering us Fellowcraft and Entered Apprentice brethren in this event. It was not just a tour but an opportunity to connect with our Masonic heritage in a truly meaningful way.

I look forward to more such experiences that bring us closer to the heart of Freemasonry and allow us to appreciate its rich traditions even further. This tour was a day to remember, and I am sure it will remain a cherished memory for all of us who had the privilege of attending.

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

Today (Fri 4 Apr),   presented a £500 cheque to Young  

Working with young people aged 5-16 who live in Buckinghamshire and have a caring role for someone in their own home who has a physical or learning disability, has an illness or a drug or alcohol dependency, Young Carers Bucks offers support tailored to the needs of every carer, this can include club nights, group activities, outings, one-to-one support, school support and anything else that might help or offer respite.

All of their services are free to those who access them and are made possible by a small but dedicated team of charity fundraisers.

Having seen first-hand the benefits they offer, it was an easy decision for Chris, the Master of Haddenham Lodge to recommend them as his choice for the annual Master’s donation, constituting part of the sum which Haddenham Lodge donated this year and the donations which Freemasons from across Bucks have given to local charities regularly.

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

The Square and Compasses are among the most significant symbols in Freemasonry, embodying essential moral and ethical principles that guide Masons in their conduct and interactions with others.

The Square represents honesty, truth, morality, and fairness. It serves as a constant reminder for Masons to act with integrity, ensuring that their actions align with just and equitable standards. By encouraging members to "square" their actions with their moral beliefs, the Square promotes a life dedicated to virtue and ethical living.

On the other hand, the Compasses symbolise skill, knowledge, and restraint. They remind Masons to keep their desires and passions in check, thereby excluding harmful and selfish behaviours from their lives. The Compasses also highlight the importance of self-control and maintaining a balance between personal ambitions and the welfare of others.

Together, the Square and Compasses form a powerful emblem of Freemasonry, these symbols encapsulate the core values of Freemasonry, serving as enduring reminders for members to lead lives characterised by integrity, morality, and self-restraint.

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

Last Wednesday saw Buckinghamshire install their new Provincial Grand Master, RW Tim Anders.  A very important event for any Province as it only occurs once every 7~10 years.

Over 500 Freemasons from Buckinghamshire and across the country assembled in the Grand Temple of Freemasons Hall London to welcome the PGM Designate and his Provincial Officers.  The Past Assistant Grand Master was there to oversee and lead the ceremony with his Grand Officers. 

While the ceremony was taking place, a small group of newer Buckinghamshire Freemasons had a private tour of the museum, building and various temples within, something that has never been carried out before.   As a province we are proud to try something new, but also involve as many as we can in special events like this.

Once the ceremony was completed, everyone attended the Grand Connaught Rooms for a formal Lunch, a dining room packed with members celebrating the day and the start of a new Provincial Grand Masters tenure.

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
   

Today Buckinghamshire install their new Provincial Grand Master – WBro Tim Anders.

Over 500 Buckinghamshire Masons will be attending the grand ceremony at Freemasons Hall to witness this once-in-a-masonic-generation event, happening every 7~10 years.

Not only will there be a new PGM, but also a new Assistant PGM, WBro Bill Smithson being promoted at this fantastic event.

In true Buckinghamshire style, something different is organised for today, with newly admitted Masons attending the day, but as they cannot be part of the ceremony in the Grand Temple, a private tour has been arranged for them to include the museum, various temples throughout the building and the hall itself, before joining all for lunch in the Grand Connaught Rooms to greet the newly installed Provincial Grand Master.

Tomorrow morning, Buckinghamshire Freemasons will see the provincial leadership handed over from John Clark to Tim Anders.
We would like to thank John for his seven years of dedication to the Hallstone Province of Buckinghamshire. John has led us with pride and experience, fostering unprecedented growth and innovation in Freemasonry. During his tenure, our membership in Buckinghamshire has grown significantly as more people discover the joys and benefits of Freemasonry.

John's demonstrable commitment to moving ideas forward into action has forged a sense of resilience, hard work and vitality in our province. John encouraged us to create memorable Masonic experiences through initiatives like Project Transform, BIG 100, BIG 1-2-3, 12DX, and the Festival Fortnights. These events will be cherished by many young Freemasons as their first incredible step into Freemasonry.

John reminded us of the importance of preserving the traditions and values passed down by our founders as we move forward. The four guiding principles of integrity, friendship, respect, and service are the foundations upon which we stand. At the same time, John encouraged us to reinterpret these traditions courageously in the context of the modern era.

Mission accomplished, Skipper.

The Buckinghamshire Royal Arch membership event BIG RED 2 has just been completed.

It is the second time that the members, or Companions, of many Chapters across the Province have taken part in multiple Exaltations, which is the term used for the joining ceremony in the Royal Arch.

The ceremony is an essential part of Freemasonry where information thought to be lost at the end of the Craft’s Third Degree ceremony is dramatically rediscovered.

Membership of the Royal Arch qualifies a Mason to join other Companion Orders and thereby increase their knowledge of Freemasonry and to continue their Masonic Journey.

From the start of the event in January at Bourne End Chapter in Marlow to the end in March at Sunnymeads Chapter in Slough, there were 40 new members and joiners in 22 Chapters, giving a 2% increase of membership in just 3 months.

The Province of Buckinghamshire, under the inspirational leadership of the Grand Superintendent Graham Dearing, has a strong tradition of innovative initiatives such as BIG RED and ensures all meetings, known as Convocations, are fun for all the Companions.

The way the Buckinghamshire Province is thriving in all the separate Orders of Freemasonry and the huge amount of enjoyment felt by the members is a testament to all the hard work put in by everyone involved.

Being a Freemason means something different to everybody, and it's unique to those who join. Freemasonry provides a feeling of togetherness and belonging. There is more that brings members together than separates them. Freemasonry offers friendship, formality, ritual, curiosity, and the opportunity to learn more every day. Freemasonry teaches tolerance and acceptance of all others as brothers. Its members come from all walks of life and many different backgrounds.
Freemasonry is still incredibly relevant to people’s lives today, bringing people together in a fractured society. Freemasonry has evolved to meet the age in which it lives and continues to evolve today. Freemasonry is a great leveller, where everybody there is your brother. Join today!

If you live in Buckinghamshire and are a man of 18 years or older, you can express your interest here: https://buckspgl.org/joinAfter filling out the short form, our membership team will be in touch.

There are two ways women can be freemasons.
The Order of Women Freemasons: https://www.owf.org.uk/join/
Freemasonry for Women (HFAF): https://hfaf.org/hfaf-official/how-to-join/

For anyone that does not live in Buckinghamshire, please follow this link: https://www.ugle.org.uk/become-freemason/join-freemasonry/register-your-interest