At its last regular meeting, Hotspur Lodge No.1626, which meets at Fern Avenue Masonic Hall, welcomed four new members in a memorable ceremony marking a very special evening. The Master of the lodge, Derek Oliver and his team of officers initiated the four young men in a ceremony which was conducted with the assistance of a number of brethren who teamed up with great effect, including an explanation of the working tools by Bro Michael, an enthusiastic Fellowcraft, which he did with aplomb.
Bros Harvey and Jacob, who came through the Universities’ Scheme, and Chris and Mat have joined with recent initiates Bros Elliott, Marcus & Peter, and Bro Michael as new members of the Lodge.
As is customary in Hotspur Lodge, the ceremony was followed by a cheerful Festive Board, where the new brethren had the opportunity to meet, dine and socialise with the other members of the lodge in a more relaxed setting. They were welcomed and toasted by the Lodge brethren, who also sang the traditional Entered Apprentice song. A number of visitors, including from the Provinces of Durham and Yorkshire North & East Ridings, attended on this very special occasion.
At the same meeting four Master Masons were presented their Grand Lodge Certificates by W Bro Philippe Pagès who also explained the symbolism of the certificate.
Hotspur Lodge is quickly recovering from the impact of the Covid lockdowns and this meeting presented a very welcome return to normality.
Thanks to the United Grand Lodge of England Universities’ Scheme, the Lodge has gained the attention of local young men in addition to the University students. The Scheme helps in forging links between Freemasonry and university students who want to become Freemasons but who don’t know where to start. The Lodge facilitates Freemasonry for students, Alumni and employees of Newcastle University in particular.
If you are a university student or in higher education and would like to find out more on how to join Hotspur Lodge email us at hotspurlodge@hotmail.co.uk
Many thanks to Bro. Leo Salazar for the submission of this article.
Congratulations from all at Northumberland Freemasons to Bros. Harvey, Jacob, Chris and Mat on your Initiation and we wish you many happy years in the Craft.
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