On Friday evening, Gavel Lodge, Shiremoor, made Masonic history by raising nine brethren to the sublime degree of a Master Mason in one extraordinary ceremony.
Inspired by a special demonstration earlier this year at Freemasons’ Hall, Queen Street, London, the officers of Gavel Lodge resolved to attempt something similar. With ten candidates awaiting their raising, it was agreed to conduct the ceremony collectively. One candidate was unable to attend, leaving nine to proceed – an unprecedented number in the Province of Northumberland.
The nine newly raised Master Masons of Gavel Lodge are celebrating together at the festive board.
The occasion required careful preparation and a dispensation from Provincial Grand Lodge. To accommodate the space needed, the ceremony was held in the ballroom of a local hotel, rather than the Shiremoor Masonic Hall. This setting enabled the officers to adapt the ritual while ensuring the dignity and solemnity of the Third Degree were fully preserved.
To further enhance the experience, the team introduced lighting effects and music, creating an atmosphere that was both dramatic and reverent. Candidates described the evening as “fantastic” and “an event they would never forget.”
The brethren raised were:
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Bro Atkinson
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Bro Barlow
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Bro Barnes
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Bro Bramley
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Bro Dermody
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Bro Hetherington
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Bro Laing
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Bro Savage
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Bro Slade
This remarkable evening marked the first time nine candidates have been raised together in Northumberland, making it a true milestone in local Masonic history. Heartfelt congratulations go to the candidates and to the officers of Gavel Lodge for their dedication, imagination, and commitment in delivering such a memorable event.