On Thursday 26th October Thames Mariner lodge performed a raising for Bro Kamandeep Singh Brar, assisted by the Provincial Grand Master and the Light Blues Brothers.

The Light Blues Brothers are a demonstation team comprised of newer brethren before the chair with excellent working skill, all of which have only been members for less than three years.

After matters were conducted the lodge was adjusted, the Light Blues taking all the offices in Bro David Clark(SW), Jordan Parmenter(JW), Ashley Dunnicliffe(SD), Charlie Bitowt(JD) and Chris Richardson(IG). 
An exemplary demonstration of the third degree was conducted finishing with the Traditional History by Bro Clark and the third Tools by Bro Bitowt.

Congratulations Bro Brah on taking your Third step in Freemasonry and for being an excellent candidate.

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.  

 
 

On Wednesday 25th October, Buckinghamshire hosted a bring a friend event at Slough Masonic Centre. There were over 75 filling the centre to the brim with masons and families in attendance, 44 of which being interested candidates.

After a short reception we sat down for a presentation from a wealth of experienced speakers that are Freemasons. The first of which being an introduction by Deputy Provincial Grand Master Neil Robertson, who explained who he is and gave a great insight into what Freemasonry is. The Assistant Provincial Comms Officer Lee Buckingham, followed, explaining the details of who we are, our beliefs, rules and priorities that are so important to us. Provincial Membership Officer John Palman followed explaining the details of what goes on at lodge meetings, including the meeting agenda, ceremony and the all important festive board (dinner!).
PAPGM Phil Blacklaw followed explaining the vast amount of contribution Freemasonry in Bucks has made in recent years, also emphasising that your time is just as important as your donation when trying to make a difference. The evening was rounded up with a closing speech and Q&A with PGM John Clark.

The evening was then finished with an exciting tour of our temple, showcasing the recently installed Project Transform lights, which are now at most of our centres. Every single attendee signed up on the evening making this an outstanding success. 

Buckinghamshire will be holding a similar event in Bletchley soon, so stay tuned!

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.  

 
 

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

A COLD WEATHER EXPLORER
Name: James Redden
Age: 52
Location: Chinnor
Joined: 2021
Lodge: Haddenham

James is a cold weather explorer. He often participates in arctic expeditions in some of the harshest environments on the planet. He has skied to the North Pole, skied through Greenland and Norway (twice), and held the world record for sprinting 400 kilometres over the frozen surface of Lake Baikal in Russia for a brief period of time.

The part of Freemasonry that James enjoys the most is being able to help people who are less fortunate via charitable work. James explained that Freemasonry is like a "family of men who all hold similar and strong values." Charity is at the heart of our organisation; during all of our activities as Freemasons, we strive to raise money for charitable causes, albeit the specific causes on which we focus might vary from lodge to lodge.

James' participation in Freemasonry has provided him with insights into many aspects of life that he may not have been exposed to otherwise. This is owing to the large amount of experience and personalities that are a part of Freemasonry, as well as the diverse range of communities and charitable organisations that we are able to lend a hand to.

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

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

A&E INJURY CONSULTANT
Name: Jim Weavill
Location: Aylesbury
Joined: 2016
Lodge: Grenville

Jim began his career in emergency medicine nearly twenty years ago with Warwickshire Ambulance Service. Beginning as a Trainee Technician, he qualified as a Paramedic and then as a Specialist Paramedic in Urgent Care.
During these two decades he served with Warwickshire, London and South Central Ambulance Services, and likely attended some 25,000 999 calls.
Incredibly, he was awarded the Queens Platinum Jubilee Medal last year.
He then moved into the ED Minors Department as a Minor Illness and Injury Practitioner of a local Hospital, while now studying to progress to an ED Advanced Care Practitioner.

Jim's favourite aspect of Freemasonry is the masonry. More specifically learning about the lore of the organisation and the history behind it. Jim enjoys learning the reasons behind having our various tools and symbols within the lodge room, which are key to Freemasonry.
Freemasonry is based on a set of principles on which we were founded. These are brotherly love, relief and truth. Jim mentions he has been able to apply these to his own life, which has helped him become a better person, by being more loving, upright and honest in both his personal and professional lives.
It has been difficult fort Jim with having such a busy role working in the ED department, however masonry and Grenville Lodge have been very supportive allowing him to progress in his career, as well as enjoy Freemasonry.

The great thing about Freemasonry is that you can take a break at anytime, be it for work, personal life or other, and then return to it. So why not give it a try today.

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

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

A DRUMMER
Name: Rik Upjohn
Age: 37
Location: Staines
Joined: 2016
Lodge: Heatherden

Rik has been a drummer since 1998. He started while in secondary school, passing his Rockschool exam in 2001 with merit. 
Rik has been in a few bands over the years. In a previous band Rik was able to play for the Royal Household staff summer party at Windsor Castle playing 'Don't stop me now' by Queen for her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Rik is currently in a band playing hits from the 50s to the 90s and has played at many masonic functions. 

Rik's favourite aspect of Freemasonry is the strong sense of community that Freemasonry fosters. He feels a sense of camaraderie and happiness as a result of his membership in Freemasonry. In some ways, it is very much like living in a family, which is a wonderful sensation. Because of this, it inspires Rik to keep going and try to improve themselves. 

It has allowed Rik's confidence to significantly develop. It has made Rik a more confident person when dealing with colleagues and stakeholders. This has helped Rik to realise what is important in their life. It has also helped him in his band as he also now sings with the band while drumming.

Freemasonry will help improve your confidence significantly, to be comfortable publicly speaking and allow you to be adept in conversation, giving you that voice you never knew you had.

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

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

A YACHT RACER
Name: Marc Lonergan
Age: 49
Location: Eastbourne
Joined: 2013
Lodge: Planet

Marc is an Offshore and Inshore yacht racer. He started sailing in 2009 after reading about the hobby and buying his own 28ft boat. Marc over the years has significantly improved, and racing his boat "The Eclipse" he has won international and regional races and titles, claiming numerous awards. Dependent on sponsorship, Marc is looking to take on a massive challenge, completing a famous solo around the world race in 2026. 

Marc's favourite aspect of Freemasonry is the lodge. Like many others he believes the meeting of the lodge is the best part of Freemasonry, he puts his enjoyment down to the "learning and brotherhood" aspects. Like many others coming into something which you can share with new friends, practice, learn, teach and work with others to create something brilliant, and different. Both in and out of meetings.

Freemasonry has helped keep him more grounded and focused. Practicing pieces which we can deliver to each other is incredibly rewarding. Marc has not only improved his mental skill but also his communication skills around others. Being part of Freemasonry enhances your ability to communicate, enhances how you are around other people, but most importantly it enhances your confidence. 

It's definitely something that can only change you for the better.

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

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

A RUGBY COACH
Name: Tarek Qutteineh
Age: 47
Location: Bangor
Joined: 2010
Lodges: Heatherden, Provincial Grand Stewards, Addington

Tarek is a Rugby coach for a local schools U18 team. The team plays regional matches in August against another three provinces (Leinster, Munster and Connacht), as well as a match against the IQ or Irish Qualified (exiles living generally in GB but not exclusively). 
Tarek's first season in the interprovincial matches resulted in their team being runners up to Leinster, while in the previous year they came third, losing to Munster and Leinster.  Tarek prefers to use an inclusive coaching style with this age group. They have found that by incorporating the suggestions of their players, they are able to gain their buy-in more easily. 

Tarek's favourite aspect of Freemasonry is meeting people and making new friends. Freemasonry has opened up a new circle of friends that he would never have come across. He emphasises the diversity of members and range of experience you can be exposed to- "The differing age, professions and cultural demographics within each lodge make you far more appreciative of other people’s backgrounds."

Tarek emphasises how Freemasonry has made them more aware and conscious of the pillars of truth, honour and virtue as well as keeping integrity at the fore of their thoughts. 
Essentially, this encourages freemasons to act and behave as a better people. The charitable side is also a huge part of the work and the work we do in the local community is always rewarding on a personal level.

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

 
 

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

A COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDER
Name: Steve Acton
Age: 64
Location: Winslow
Joined: 2010
Lodges: New Urban, Verney, Provincial Grand Stewards, Bucks Masters, Eric Deung

Steve has been a Community First Responder (CFR) since 2007. CFRs are all volunteers who live and work within their local communities. They are trained by South Central Ambulance Services to respond to life-threatening medical emergencies, such as cardiac arrests, breathing difficulties, chest pains, diabetic emergencies, trauma, and burns. "I had always been involved with the Fire or Ambulance services since I was 18 years old. Becoming a First Responder allowed me to get involved with and support my local community."
One of Steve's favourite aspects of Freemasonry is the connection that lodges have with their communities. "I feel that there is a need in society today for all of us to volunteer some time to help others. This is something that is encouraged in Freemasonry, and I am certain that without the time and effort that Freemasons give to others, the community would be disadvantaged as a result."
Steve emphasises how Freemasonry has made him much more confident in social settings. "I would never have dreamed of being able to stand up in a room filled with people and give a speech. I have had many opportunities to do so through Freemasonry, and the confidence it has given me has helped in my CFR role when speaking to the public at incidents that I attend."
Steve is very proud to be a Provincial Grand Steward in the Hall Stone Province of Buckinghamshire and considers this one of his favourite moments in Freemasonry to date.

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

 
 

Having rode up from Bucks the previous day, they enjoyed a night on the town. They were joined on the Saturday by members of other biker lodges; Mike Hailwood Lodge 9839 and Lincolnshire Free Wheelers Lodge 9991. In total over 50 attendees enjoyed a tremendous passing ceremony, tour of the excellent museum, and biker-café themed Festive Board! 
Giorgio, the head of the lodge, presented a Bucks tie, with Hall Stone jewel, to the museum curator, for its inclusion in the incredible collection at the museum.
It was the first time that a biker lodge had held a meeting in the Grantham Masonic Centre. A big thank you to members of    including The Granta Lodge, William Peters Lodge, Meridian Lodge, Sir Issac Newton Lodge and Doric Lodge – all of whom meet at the Grantham 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/info
After filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.  

 
 

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

A CLAY PIGEON SHOOTER
Name: Steve Adams
Age: 52
Location: Croxley Green
Joined: November 2005
Lodges: Five Points, Slough Daylight, Bucks Stewards, Bucks Past Masters

Steve enjoys clay pigeon shooting in his free time. He joined freemasonry in the same way that many members of the organisation are shooters. After a while of attending masonic shoots, he decided to join freemasonry. He is a Clay Pigeon Shooting Association Safety Officer, and participated in English Skeet events, and is now an A class shooter.

Steve's favourite aspect of Freemasonry is supporting in the background in the more administrative roles in his many lodges.
Being in roles such as treasurer and assistant secretary, this as well as being a visiting officer and part of the craft communications team writing content for the provincial Facebook pages and articles for Concord magazine. 

Freemasonry's social aspect is a large part of why many masons enjoy it, and Steve thoroughly does also.
Steve has become more adept in groups and when doing public speaking by being a part of freemasonry, this is because we speak to each other in our meetings and making speeches at dinners, this therefore has increased his confidence in a variety of social situations. Steve enjoys how freemasonry allows you to meet people from all walks of life you’d never meet in normal life.

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

 
 

An insight into the life of a Freemason outside the masonic centre.

AN AMBULANCE DRIVER
Name: Gordon King
Age: 57
Location: Kings Langley
Joined: 1995
Lodges: Lodge of Concorde

Gordon drives ambulances for the ECMO Unit at St Thomas' hospital. After 30 years at the met office and as a Detective Inspector Gordon retired. 
Gordon then volunteered to drive ambulances after they were desperately short in numbers during the pandemic, finally ending up at St. Thomas after moving once again. His career in the Police and during his retirement in the NHS has quite simply been about helping people who need it the most, Gordon emphasises how freemasonry resonates with this.

Gordon's favourite aspect of Freemasonry because of this is giving back. Gordon likes the ways in which freemasonry has charity at its core. Gordon enjoys the sense of satisfaction in helping people both in freemasonry and driving ambulances. He also mentions a selfless culture, where many of its members will always lend a "sympathetic ear" to those who need it most and provide what they can to help.

Freemasonry has been a part of Gordon's life for a very long time as a member of nearly 40 years, so it has helped him most of his adult life. Gordon is inspired by the selfless actions of many of the members and he always works in many ways to emulate their example. 

To be better and to help others truly is one of the core principles on which masonry is founded.

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

 
 

3089 Passed one of their newest members, Anton Pascaru.
The ceremony was a masterclass in how to perform a passing. David,  Jordan and Charlie from the Light Blues Brothers performed faultlessly.

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

 
 

The Lodge was honoured to be joined by Assistant Provincial Grand Master, John King for an evening of both sorrow and celebrations.

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

 
 

Bro Kevin going into chair for the fourth time, but his first in Buckinghamshire.

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