What a day for Lincolnshire’s Rough Ashlars at Freemasons Hall!
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Twenty-four members of the Lincolnshire Rough Ashlars made the journey to Freemasons Hall to be part of a group of about 1,700 for the Light Blues Communication Event — representing the Province with the support of PGM Dave Wheeler.
Steve Henman added: “It was wonderful to see so many Brethren from our Province — talking with friends they had only just met, from different Provinces, sharing stories and journeys, and forming the kind of friendships that do not fade. The future is bright. The future is Light Blue. We extend our sincere thanks to every Brother who made the journey, and to our Provincial Grand Master for his steadfast support. We look forward to welcoming even more Brethren to future events.”
A sandwich lunch accompanied conversation, and the particular joy of meeting strangers who felt like old friends. With about 1,700 Freemasons in attendance, there was no shortage of new connections to be made, and no shortage of regret that there wasn’t time to make more. There is always next year. The afternoon brought a live recording of Craftcast, the Freemasons’ Podcast.
Reflections from the day
Damien Footsoy, Worshipful Master — Ashlar Lodge “Today has been a wonderful day of Freemasonry and fraternity. It is always special to visit Grand Lodge, but the Light Blues Communication feels particularly so. The presentations were brilliant and added a different dimension to the meeting. Everyone appeared to thoroughly enjoy themselves, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any Lincolnshire Brother considering attending a future event.”
Corey Cuthbert, Rough Ashlar Liaison Officer “Today has been nothing short of spectacular. The atmosphere throughout the building was truly remarkable, and the lectures were engaging and genuinely eye-opening — offering a fascinating insight into the future of Freemasonry and the Light Blues system across England.”
Gareth Taylor, Fellowcraft — Ashlar Lodge “As a Fellowcraft with my first twelve months behind me, it was a privilege to attend the Light Blues Communication. The Rough Ashlars did an excellent job of coordinating everything, making the experience all the more enjoyable. Seeing so many Light Blues in the Temple was quite impactful — particularly the presence of distinguished guests and Lady Masons, which lent the occasion a wonderful sense of inclusivity. The presentations were well delivered and carried a clear, united message: taking Freemasonry forward and embracing openness to support and encourage new membership. I very much look forward to the December Quarterly Communication, should I be raised in time.”
Bruce Reid, Lodge of Aveland “What a wonderful experience the Light Blues Communication was for me as a very new member of the Fraternity. It still amazes me — as someone who has always found it difficult to speak to strangers — how naturally I can engage with Brethren I have never previously met, and that ease began even before I had boarded the train. From meeting new friends and walking together to Queen Street, to entering the Temple itself — which was quite literally awe-inspiring — every moment felt special. Conversation over lunch with Brethren from many Lodges and Provinces was, as always, a pleasure. I have not broadly spoken of my membership until now, but having been encouraged to be visible, I shared our photograph outside UGLE on my social media — and I am glad I did.”
David Brennan, St Godrick Lodge “What a day it was. After so many years in Freemasonry, this was my first visit to Freemasons’ Hall — and whatever anticipations I had were far exceeded. I had been told to look out for the stained glass window, but not told why. Now I know: because it is ours, from Lincolnshire, and it says so in the glass. The inspirational words from the Pro Grand Master and others during the ceremony and the Craftcast left me feeling quietly emotional and deeply proud to be a Freemason. A particular highlight was the presence of the Lady Masons — I had the honour of speaking with both female Grand Masters, and with their colleagues from Argentina, Germany, Hong Kong, Nigeria, and Dudley. The memories from this first visit will last a lifetime, but I very much hope to return.”
Stuart Ruskin, St Godrick Lodge “What a great day at Grand Lodge. It reminded me that Freemasonry is not simply something we practise within our Lodges — it is something we carry into the world. We must always be kind, always be caring, and always be ready to lend an ear to those who need one, because a friendly word to someone in a dark place can make all the difference. When we speak to friends and family, let us tell them why we joined, what it means to us, and why we love it so deeply. Saturday was a beautiful illustration of one of Freemasonry’s most enduring virtues: Brotherly Love.”
