Festival 2031 - The Travelling Gavel
This initiative is meant to represent a fitting start for something that is intended to strengthen our sense of unity and shared endeavour. The journey of the travelling Gavel is soon to begin. Over the term of this Festival, the Gavel will travel between Lodges across Northumberland. Any Lodge or Chapter within the Province can take part.
In our Craft the Gavel is the tool by which the operative mason breaks away the rough and superfluous parts of the stone, that it may be fitted for its proper place in the building.
So too we’re taught to use the symbolic Gavel upon ourselves – to remove the rough edges of ignorance, selfishness, and indifference, and to shape our character according to the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.
This Travelling Gavel is meant to remind us that the work of the Craft doesn’t end within the walls of our Lodge. As it passes from Lodge to Lodge, it carries with it a challenge – that wherever it rests, good work shall follow.
Each Lodge that holds the Gavel is called not only to fellowship, but to labour: to support charity, to strengthen our bonds of friendship, and to leave our community better than we found it.
May each stroke of this Gavel remind us that while we shape ourselves as better men, we must also help shape a kinder world.
Words for WM to use to “present” the Travelling Gavel
Brethren of [Visiting Lodge], by your presence and fellowship this evening, you have earned the custody of the Travelling Gavel. May you carry it with pride and may the good works that accompany it grow as it journeys throughout the Province.
Where did I come from, where did I go...
Previous holders:
- St Alban Lodge, 5322 – March 2026
Current Location:
- Lodge Vandeleur, 3586 – April 2026
Click here for the rules