On Sunday, 1st September 2024, a significant fraternal visit took place as a delegation of 18 brethren from Newcastle’s Oriental Lodge (OL) No. 9371 made their way to London to attend the Installation ceremony at Zetland and Hong Kong Lodge (Z&HKL) No. 7665, held at Freemasons’ Hall in Great Queen Street. This was a momentous occasion, further strengthening the bonds between these two Lodges, which have shared a close and friendly relationship for many years.
A Longstanding Tradition of Friendship
The ties between OL and Z&HKL are deep, with both Lodges exchanging visits annually, often coinciding with Installation ceremonies and Chinese New Year celebrations. Oriental Lodge, founded in 1990 by W Bro ‘Uncle’ Peter Chen, was established with the aim of helping Oriental brethren progress and enjoy Freemasonry. Since its inception, OL has flourished, becoming one of the most successful Lodges in the Province of Northumberland. One of the hallmarks of OL’s gatherings is the renowned Chinese banquet that follows each meeting, alongside regular visits to Hong Kong.
This year’s visit to London was organised under the enthusiastic leadership of Worshipful Master Guy Smith, who helped coordinate a larger-than-usual delegation for the event. Despite logistical challenges, including the threat of strikes and cancelled trains, over 30 delegates – including wives and partners – and members of Z&HKL gathered at the New Loon Fung Restaurant in London’s Chinatown on the evening of Sunday, 1st September. The evening was marked by a lavish banquet, with many guests indulging in a lobster feast.
Day Two: Dim Sum and Installation
On Monday, 2nd September, delegates and members reconvened for a Dim Sum lunch at the same venue, the New Loon Fung. Following the meal, the group took a refreshing walk to Freemasons’ Hall, where they met the full delegation. The gathering included not only OL members from Lincoln but also esteemed brethren from Hong Kong, among whom were three Past District Grand Masters of the District of Hong Kong and the Far East: R W Bros Peter Wong, David Fok, and Vivian Lee.
The highlight of the visit was the Installation ceremony of W Bro Leon Choi. During this well-executed ceremony, W Bro Guy Smith was given the rare honour of presenting the Working Tools of an Installed Master during the Inner Workings. In a special gesture, W Bro Guy sourced a beautifully inscribed box containing the tools and presented it as a gift from Oriental Lodge to Z&HKL. This gesture not only symbolised the strength of the relationship between the two Lodges but also served as a token of goodwill and fraternity.
The Festive Board and New Traditions
Following the ceremony, the brethren gathered for the festive board at the iconic Connaught Rooms. Throughout the evening, reciprocal thanks were exchanged for the efforts made to organise the visit, with special recognition given to W Bro Kam-Wah Mak, Secretary and Almoner of Oriental Lodge, for his invaluable contributions.
W Bro Guy Smith’s toast to the visitors included a recitation of the Scottish Masonic poem, “The Level and the Square,” written by Rob Morris many years ago. His eloquent words further deepened the bonds between the two Lodges, highlighting the shared values of brotherhood and mutual respect.
In a proposal that was warmly received by all, W Bro Guy suggested that the presentation of the Master’s tools should become a regular tradition at the Installation ceremonies of both OL and Z&HKL. This new tradition, he stated, would serve to further fortify the close relationship between the two Lodges.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Bonds
The visit concluded with Z&HKL promising to increase their numbers for a return visit to Newcastle in February 2025. The fraternal bonds between Northumberland’s Oriental Lodge and Zetland and Hong Kong Lodge continue to grow stronger, rooted in a shared respect for Masonic traditions, friendship, and mutual support.
As both Lodges look to the future, this successful visit serves as a reminder of the enduring power of Freemasonry to unite brethren from all corners of the globe, bringing North and South together, while also bridging the East and West.
This event has once again showcased the beauty of international brotherhood and the enriching experiences that stem from such fraternal visits. Here’s to many more years of friendship, collaboration, and shared Masonic traditions between these two esteemed Lodges.