Grand Lodge of Scotland joins the Council for Freemasonry

Represented by Grand Master Mason Alexander Moncrieff and Grand Secretary Willie Semple, the Grand Lodge of Scotland has joined the United Grand Lodge of England, the Order of Women Freemasons, and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons on the Council, extending its reach across the whole of Great Britain.

The Council was created to strengthen cooperation between the governing bodies of Freemasonry, promote the shared values of integrity, friendship, respect and service, and challenge outdated misconceptions about Freemasonry. From its inception, the Council has reflected the important role of women in modern Freemasonry, with its first presidents drawn from the two women-only Grand Lodges, the Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons.

Scotland’s participation represents the next chapter in the Council’s development, creating an unprecedented platform for collaboration between male and female Freemasons across Great Britain. The Council coordinates charitable and community initiatives, supports membership growth, and engages with external organisations to promote a better understanding of Freemasonry’s contribution to society.

The Council continues to demonstrate that Freemasonry is not exclusively male. Women’s Freemasonry has flourished in the United Kingdom for more than a century, and the Council provides a visible example of the close cooperation that exists between male and female Freemasons while respecting their separate traditions and governance.

Grand Master Mason Alexander Moncrieff said: “The Council for Freemasonry is a vital platform that reflects our shared principles and commitment to community service. Scotland’s Freemasons are proud to join with our counterparts across Great Britain to strengthen understanding, collaboration and the charitable spirit that underpins Freemasonry.”

Jonathan Spence, Pro Grand Master of UGLE, said: “The expansion of the Council to include Scotland is a historic moment for Freemasonry in Great Britain. It builds upon the vision that brought together male and female Freemasonry under a shared Council and demonstrates our collective commitment to openness, inclusivity and service to our communities.”

With Scotland’s accession, the Council for Freemasonry in Great Britain enters a new phase, strengthening cooperation across national borders while continuing to champion the values and charitable traditions that unite Freemasons throughout Great Britain.