Victory in Europe Day, generally known as VE Day or V-E Day, was celebrated on Tuesday, 8 May 1945 to mark the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces.

The act of military surrender was first signed at 02:41 on 7 May in SHAEF HQ at Reims, and a slightly modified document was signed on 8 May 1945 in Berlin.

A day in history that we should never forget.

This morning, Adrian Marsh, the Grand Secretary of United Grand Lodge of England, alongside Tim Anders the Provincial Grand Master of Buckinghamshire  took to the sky in a Piper PA-28 Cherokee piloted by our very own Paul Brissenden-Hemstock.

Leaving RAF Halton to RAF Kemble for a planned lodge meeting of The Buckinghamshire Motorcycle Lodge. A huge “ride in” and in this instance a fly in too.

Buckinghamshire doing something different again.
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The All-Seeing Eye, often depicted as an eye within a triangle, is a powerful symbol found in various cultures and traditions, including Freemasonry. It represents the idea of divine providence and the omnipresence of a higher power. 

The All-Seeing Eye signifies that a higher power is always observing and aware of human actions. This serves as a reminder for individuals to act with integrity and morality, knowing they are accountable for their deeds.

The symbol also represents enlightenment and the pursuit of knowledge. It encourages individuals to seek wisdom and understanding, both of themselves and the universe around them.

The triangle surrounding the eye often signifies the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. It suggests that true understanding comes from harmonising these aspects of existence.

The All-Seeing Eye serves as a profound symbol of awareness, accountability, and the quest for spiritual enlightenment, encouraging individuals to live virtuous lives guided by a higher moral compass.

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A lot of people from the Aylesbury Women’s Refuge (14 Women and 14 Children) will be getting a Chocolate treat this Easter thanks to the WM Ameet Doshi and the Brethren of Ferdinand De Rothschild Lodge 2420
Also a HUGE shout out to W Bro Tom Murtagh who supplied the mini chocolate eggs in the orange, green and pink bags from his company Walkers Chocolate.

From Mark Duncan, the Provincial Grand Charity Steward; "I attended an International Women’s Day celebration put on by the Women’s Aid Charity, some of the Ladies came up to me and said, “Are you the Pie Man” they didn’t know my name and were referring to the Covid period when Buckinghamshire Freemasons delivered pies to Bucks Young Carers, the elderly, the Women’s refuge and many more."

"They said the Women and staff were really grateful to local Freemasons when we took them fresh pies every week, they looked forward to our home cooked pies made by Shirley Cannings from Aylesbury Masonic Centre."

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The Volume of the Sacred Law is a fundamental symbol in Freemasonry. It represents the moral and ethical guidance that Freemasons seek in their lives. For many Masons, this volume is the Bible, but it can also be any sacred text that holds significance for the individual, depending on their faith.

The Volume of the Sacred Law is central to Freemasonry, serving as a guide for moral conduct, a symbol of unity, and a reminder of the spiritual foundation upon which the fraternity is built.

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When heart-breaking can be heart-warming.

On a glorious sunny Sunday morning in Buckinghamshire, 105 representatives of 57 Charities arrived at the Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury by Invitation of Buckinghamshire Freemasons. They were joined by the Mayors of Aylesbury, Milton Keynes, High Wycombe and Slough, who were accompanying The Chair of Bucks County Council Mimi Barker OBE, The High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire Pippa Kirkbride and both The Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Lady Elizabeth Howe CBE and her Deputy Roger Jefcoate CBE.

After 6 months of planning by our Provincial Grand Charity Steward, the day arrived. It was an opportunity for all the Charities to network with each other, sharing stories and comparing notes but also listening to the Impact statements of 16 impassioned speakers, who spoke bravely and informatively about their respective causes, as well as recognising the support of Buckinghamshire Freemasons on a local level in Bucks but also the importance of grants distributed by the Masonic Charitable Foundation on a Regional and National stage.
Relief, or what is generally known as Charity is one of the three keystones of Freemasonry , just as Humility is a characteristic synonymous with everything we do.

Both were in abundance, as Charity speakers talked and humble listeners heard about the importance of community in our lives and the involvement of Freemasons not just in the financial support of so many worthy causes, but also in the volunteering of time to help so many less fortunate than ourselves.

The four Worshipful Mayors and Chair of the County Council all spoke of the ever important role organisations like Freemasonry have to play in modern society, where government funding is stretched and so many Charities rely on local assistance to survive.

Lady Howe reiterated this as she spoke of the long history of giving by Masons to bolster the resilience of those needing help. It was indeed a day to feel humble yet proud of the community and our volunteers and fundraisers in Freemasonry
In summing up the event in his closing comments, The host and Provincial Grand Master of Buckinghamshire Tim Anders thanked the Charities for their tireless efforts and determination to give the unheard a voice and hope to the most fragile, with the assurance of the continued support of Buckinghamshire Masons for years to come.

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A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of touring the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) on the same day as the installation of the new Provincial Grand Master (PGM). This was a remarkable experience, as we were able to witness the grandeur of Freemasonry while also immersing ourselves in its rich history. The tour was conducted by Vinnie from UGLE and included about ten Fellowcraft (FC) and Entered Apprentice (EA) brethren.

Our journey began outside the museum, where we all gathered in anticipation of what lay ahead. The excitement among the brethren was palpable as we exchanged greetings and shared our expectations for the day. From there, we proceeded to the balcony overlooking the entrance to the Grand Temple. It was a spectacular sight to see the banners of the Buckinghamshire lodges and other provincial officers making their way into the Grand Temple for the installation ceremony. The sight of these historic banners and the dignified procession of officers emphasized the grandeur and deep-rooted traditions of our fraternity.

After taking in this impressive view, we commenced our official tour at the museum. The museum itself was an absolute treasure trove of Masonic history, filled with artifacts and documents that span centuries. Vinnie, our guide, provided a wealth of information, offering detailed explanations of various exhibits and answering all our questions with great enthusiasm. It was fascinating to learn about the evolution of Freemasonry and how it has played a role in shaping history.
One of the most awe-inspiring pieces we encountered was the enormous ceremonial throne that was made in 1791 for the then-Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. The sheer size of the throne was staggering, reflecting the high stature of the Royal Grand Master it was made for. Seeing such a grand artifact in person truly deepened my appreciation for the longstanding traditions and regal connections within Freemasonry.

After an enriching time in the museum, Vinnie led us through the various rooms within UGLE. We began with our own Buckinghamshire Room, where we felt a sense of pride and belonging. It was inspiring to see a space dedicated to our province and its contributions to the Craft. Following that, we visited the Charity Room, which highlighted the incredible charitable work that Freemasonry has accomplished over the years. This room served as a reminder of one of our core principles—helping those in need.

Perhaps the most visually stunning of all the rooms we visited was the Egyptian Room. It was fascinating to see how different architectural and artistic influences have found their way into Masonic traditions and meeting places.
Overall, the tour was an enlightening experience. Every single brother present enjoyed the opportunity to explore UGLE, and we all left with a deeper appreciation for our fraternity’s history, traditions, and values. We are incredibly grateful to the Province for organizing such a remarkable experience and for considering us Fellowcraft and Entered Apprentice brethren in this event. It was not just a tour but an opportunity to connect with our Masonic heritage in a truly meaningful way.

I look forward to more such experiences that bring us closer to the heart of Freemasonry and allow us to appreciate its rich traditions even further. This tour was a day to remember, and I am sure it will remain a cherished memory for all of us who had the privilege of attending.

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Today (Fri 4 Apr),   presented a £500 cheque to Young  

Working with young people aged 5-16 who live in Buckinghamshire and have a caring role for someone in their own home who has a physical or learning disability, has an illness or a drug or alcohol dependency, Young Carers Bucks offers support tailored to the needs of every carer, this can include club nights, group activities, outings, one-to-one support, school support and anything else that might help or offer respite.

All of their services are free to those who access them and are made possible by a small but dedicated team of charity fundraisers.

Having seen first-hand the benefits they offer, it was an easy decision for Chris, the Master of Haddenham Lodge to recommend them as his choice for the annual Master’s donation, constituting part of the sum which Haddenham Lodge donated this year and the donations which Freemasons from across Bucks have given to local charities regularly.

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The Square and Compasses are among the most significant symbols in Freemasonry, embodying essential moral and ethical principles that guide Masons in their conduct and interactions with others.

The Square represents honesty, truth, morality, and fairness. It serves as a constant reminder for Masons to act with integrity, ensuring that their actions align with just and equitable standards. By encouraging members to "square" their actions with their moral beliefs, the Square promotes a life dedicated to virtue and ethical living.

On the other hand, the Compasses symbolise skill, knowledge, and restraint. They remind Masons to keep their desires and passions in check, thereby excluding harmful and selfish behaviours from their lives. The Compasses also highlight the importance of self-control and maintaining a balance between personal ambitions and the welfare of others.

Together, the Square and Compasses form a powerful emblem of Freemasonry, these symbols encapsulate the core values of Freemasonry, serving as enduring reminders for members to lead lives characterised by integrity, morality, and self-restraint.

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Last Wednesday saw Buckinghamshire install their new Provincial Grand Master, RW Tim Anders.  A very important event for any Province as it only occurs once every 7~10 years.

Over 500 Freemasons from Buckinghamshire and across the country assembled in the Grand Temple of Freemasons Hall London to welcome the PGM Designate and his Provincial Officers.  The Past Assistant Grand Master was there to oversee and lead the ceremony with his Grand Officers. 

While the ceremony was taking place, a small group of newer Buckinghamshire Freemasons had a private tour of the museum, building and various temples within, something that has never been carried out before.   As a province we are proud to try something new, but also involve as many as we can in special events like this.

Once the ceremony was completed, everyone attended the Grand Connaught Rooms for a formal Lunch, a dining room packed with members celebrating the day and the start of a new Provincial Grand Masters tenure.

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Today Buckinghamshire install their new Provincial Grand Master – WBro Tim Anders.

Over 500 Buckinghamshire Masons will be attending the grand ceremony at Freemasons Hall to witness this once-in-a-masonic-generation event, happening every 7~10 years.

Not only will there be a new PGM, but also a new Assistant PGM, WBro Bill Smithson being promoted at this fantastic event.

In true Buckinghamshire style, something different is organised for today, with newly admitted Masons attending the day, but as they cannot be part of the ceremony in the Grand Temple, a private tour has been arranged for them to include the museum, various temples throughout the building and the hall itself, before joining all for lunch in the Grand Connaught Rooms to greet the newly installed Provincial Grand Master.

Tomorrow morning, Buckinghamshire Freemasons will see the provincial leadership handed over from John Clark to Tim Anders.
We would like to thank John for his seven years of dedication to the Hallstone Province of Buckinghamshire. John has led us with pride and experience, fostering unprecedented growth and innovation in Freemasonry. During his tenure, our membership in Buckinghamshire has grown significantly as more people discover the joys and benefits of Freemasonry.

John's demonstrable commitment to moving ideas forward into action has forged a sense of resilience, hard work and vitality in our province. John encouraged us to create memorable Masonic experiences through initiatives like Project Transform, BIG 100, BIG 1-2-3, 12DX, and the Festival Fortnights. These events will be cherished by many young Freemasons as their first incredible step into Freemasonry.

John reminded us of the importance of preserving the traditions and values passed down by our founders as we move forward. The four guiding principles of integrity, friendship, respect, and service are the foundations upon which we stand. At the same time, John encouraged us to reinterpret these traditions courageously in the context of the modern era.

Mission accomplished, Skipper.

Yesterday,   welcomed Provincial Grand Charity Steward Mark Duncan, Captain Bill Holland and Volunteer Coordinator Ewan Gordon.

They saw the new cuddle beds, which are used in the Hospice Inpatient Unit

In the Summer of 2023 Buckinghamshire Freemasons organised a 50-mile walk across Pilgrim’s Way to raise funds for the Hospice. Forty incredible walkers battled torrential rain and strong winds during the walk.

Initially, the team set out to fund one cuddle bed, but through generous donations and the commitment of the walkers to their fundraising, the walkers raised £31,000, enough to buy two beds !

Mark, Bill and Ewan were warmly welcomed by the Charity's CEO, Jo Turner and IPU Ward Sister Tracey Batt, who showed them how they worked and talked about their impact. The beds arrived in December, and the Hospice has already seen the wonderful difference they make to the patients, their families and pets, offering a place to cuddle up as a family in their precious final days together.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

When a new Brother is Initiated into a Craft Lodge, he is invested with an apron during the ceremony. When a new Companion is Exalted into a Chapter, he is invested with a different apron and also has an additional jewel and sash to wear.

The ribbons and the background to the Royal Arch logo on the apron change from white to red then blue as the Companion progresses in the order.

Happy Valentines Day to our NHS

100 Doctors and Nurses at Stoke Mandeville Hospital received Chocolate Hearts or Chocolate Roses courtesy of Buckinghamshire Freemasons.

Bill Smithson, a member of   went on a shopping spree across Bucks from Milton Keynes to Aylesbury to buy the chocolates ready for Valentines Day.  Bill said “ In an overstretched NHS the staff don’t stop caring and neither should we”

The chocolates were donated to Elaine at the Hospital’s Acts of Kindness Team, for her to distribute, and later this morning she wrote “Thanks again Bill, I have shared them with A&E, the Medical Doctors team, the same day emergency assessment department, and wards 15,16,17 & 18….They were delighted !”

A further 20 gifts were left by Bill for The   staff to let them know they are always close to our hearts in Freemasonry.

 

The Officers in a Royal Arch Chapter have different names to those in a Craft Lodge but have equivalent roles.

A Chapter is conjointly ruled by the Most Excellent Zerubbabel, Haggai and Joshua and are called the Principals whereas a Lodge is ruled over by the Worshipful Master. They each carry a sceptre and wear colourful robes.

Scribe Ezra is the equivalent of a Secretary and Scribe Nehemiah is like the Inner Guard. The Janitor outside the door is the same as a Tyler.

A Chapter has 3 additional officers called Sojourners. They are an integral part of the joining ceremony which is known as an Exaltation.

The remaining officers have the same names as their Craft counterparts: Treasurer, Director of Ceremonies, Almoner, Charity Steward, Assistant Director of Ceremonies and Stewards.

All officers wear collars with the jewel of their office appended but are coloured red.

When Initiated into a Lodge, a Brother joins Craft Freemasonry. The Supreme Degree of the Royal Arch is a continuation of his Masonic Journey which has an indissoluble link to the Craft. The Joining Ceremony for the Royal Arch is called an Exaltation. The members are called Companions and they meet in Chapters.

Chapters, like Lodges, are grouped into Provinces, based on old County boundaries, with the Supreme Grand Chapter overseeing all of the Provinces.

Joining the Royal Arch is the natural progression from the Craft as the Ceremony addresses the missing knowledge from the events described in Third Degree Ceremony. Membership of the Royal Arch is also a gateway into joining many other Orders within Freemasonry.

Olney Masonic Club - Making Dreams Come True!

What started as a simple conversation led W Bro Eugene Matthias, our 'Freemasonry in the Community' coordinator, to the Cowper & Newton Museum in Olney and became something extraordinary.

The museum had long dreamed of a new kitchen and a beautifully redecorated shop to enhance the visitors' experience. Unfortunately, rising costs made those dreams seem unattainable.

But dreams do come true! The Olney Masonic Club stepped in, teaming up with Bathrooms by Harpers (Ed & Mario) to bring this dream to life. 

The museum needed £600 to reach its goal, and we were proud to cover the shortfall. Ed and Mario went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect.

To celebrate this special occasion, the museum staff and OMC (Freemasons) marked the presentation in style, dressing up to commemorate the moment.

The Olney Masonic Club is proud to  support our local community.

Stay tuned for updates on the shop’s transformation!

Pilgrim's Walk Benefits Florence Nightingale Hospice.

Buckinghamshire Freemasons, under the banner of Freemasonry in the Community, made a 50 mile Pilgrim's Walk in aid of the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity.

The Hospice wished to purchase new Cuddle beds, which are Hospital-style double beds, enabling partners to sleep in the same bed as their loved ones during their final days and hours, to create an endearing and loving memory.

Just before Christmas, Tracey Batt, IPU Ward Sister said;
Here at the Hospice we never underestimate the power of touch and a hug. We see all the time how being near loved ones, offers comfort when it is needed most and we are so thrilled to have been given the opportunity to purchase two Embrace Cuddle beds which were installed this week.

Being able to now offer patients and those they love, the opportunity to lie side by side, to snuggle children up with parents or grandparents is simply wonderful.

Within hours of installing these new adaptable beds, we were able to use them to their full advantage when a couple stayed overnight together in the bed. We witnessed the emotional impact and benefit of being able to spend precious time, when time is short, hugging closely together and it provided us with an insight into how valuable these beds will really be to the care we provide to our patient and families.

We are so grateful to all those who walked many miles on the Pilgrim's Walk, through awful rainy conditions, to raise funds to enable us to purchase these beds, without them, it simply would not have been possible. Thank you to Buckinghamshire Freemasons for making this possible.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

 

Dagmar Rugby Lodge and MK Alliance Project.

The annual Buckinghamshire Provincial membership scheme, the 12 Days of Christmas (12DX) this year included Dagmar Lodge, which is a Special Interest Lodge with a rugby theme.

At their 12DX meeting, the members and visitors of Dagmar Lodge donated to support the MK Alliance Project, a school and community-based initiative to improve access to high quality rugby in Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas for children of all backgrounds.

It currently involves over 16 Schools and around 70 players, giving both new and experienced players the opportunity to be given free coaching and play competitive rugby. All the coaches and first aiders generously give their time for free.

The donation from Dagmar Lodge enables the players to be provided with a warm meal after games. This also helps them build new bonds and friendships, allowing them to grow their social skills and improve their confidence.

The Alliance is also a 'Safe Place' which gives players the opportunity to share any issues or problems they might have outside of the game in confidence, knowing it is safe to do so.

This is an example of grass roots rugby at its finest and with the help of Dagmar Lodge and Buckinghamshire Freemasons, the Alliance will help to grow the love of the game in its basic format and make a huge difference within the local community.

If you would like to be part of a global community that has its roots firmly in the ground in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join?

After filling in the short form, our Membership Team will be in touch.