Buckinghamshire Freemasons Welcome 60 New Members in Historic Multi-Centre Initiation Event
In an unprecedented and powerful demonstration of unity and growth, Buckinghamshire Freemasonry held its largest coordinated initiation event to date this July, as 60 new Freemasons were initiated simultaneously across multiple centres throughout the county.
Known as the “Big Local”, this extraordinary event saw lodges across Buckinghamshire open their doors in harmony, each conducting initiation ceremonies at the same time, all aligned in purpose and spirit. While the ceremonies took place in different Masonic centres, from Newport Pagnell, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Bletchley, Slough to Marlow, the atmosphere was one of collective brotherhood and shared tradition.
Initiations started at 9am and carried on throughout the day, and like something out of an ’80s game show, (think Challenge Anneka), the Provincial Grand Master and his team of provincial officers were on a high-energy mission, travelling across the county to witness as many initiation ceremonies as possible. Their commitment and enthusiasm meant they could be seen appearing in photos from numerous centres, showing support, celebrating with new initiates, and strengthening the connection across the province.
This initiative was more than a logistical success, it was a powerful symbol of Freemasonry’s unity, heritage, and relevance in the modern age. As each initiate took their first step into Freemasonry, they did so not as isolated individuals, but as part of a much wider, connected experience. Brethren across the province were bonded in a common effort to welcome the next generation of Freemasons, reinforcing the strength of the fraternity across geographical boundaries.
Provincial Grand Master Tim Anders commented:
“This event was a celebration of brotherhood. To see such a significant number of men committing to the values of Freemasonry at the same time, across so many centres, speaks volumes about the health and future of the Craft in Buckinghamshire
A huge and heartfelt thanks goes to all the brethren and lodges who took part in this momentous occasion. Your commitment, dedication, sacrificing evenings and weekends and time with your own family made this event not only possible but a shining example of what we can achieve when we come together in support of our Province and each other”
For the 60 new initiates, their journey began with the knowledge that they were part of something bigger than themselves. They didn’t just join a lodge they joined a living network of support, fellowship, and shared purpose that spans across the county and beyond.
The “Big Local” event exemplified what modern Freemasonry is all about: timeless values practiced in contemporary ways, a blend of tradition and innovation, and above all, a thriving community committed to personal growth, charitable work, and meaningful connection.
This momentous event not only welcomed new brethren but also reaffirmed the vibrant energy and unity within Buckinghamshire’s Masonic community. Though held in different rooms, every lodge was connected by ritual, by intention, and by the unbreakable bond of Freemasonry.
One event. Sixty initiations. One united brotherhood.
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
In an unprecedented and powerful demonstration of unity and growth, Buckinghamshire Freemasonry held its largest coordinated initiation event to date this July, as 60 new Freemasons were initiated simultaneously across multiple centres throughout the county.
Known as the “Big Local”, this extraordinary event saw lodges across Buckinghamshire open their doors in harmony, each conducting initiation ceremonies at the same time, all aligned in purpose and spirit. While the ceremonies took place in different Masonic centres, from Newport Pagnell, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Bletchley, Slough to Marlow, the atmosphere was one of collective brotherhood and shared tradition.
Initiations started at 9am and carried on throughout the day, and like something out of an ’80s game show, (think Challenge Anneka), the Provincial Grand Master and his team of provincial officers were on a high-energy mission, travelling across the county to witness as many initiation ceremonies as possible. Their commitment and enthusiasm meant they could be seen appearing in photos from numerous centres, showing support, celebrating with new initiates, and strengthening the connection across the province.
This initiative was more than a logistical success, it was a powerful symbol of Freemasonry’s unity, heritage, and relevance in the modern age. As each initiate took their first step into Freemasonry, they did so not as isolated individuals, but as part of a much wider, connected experience. Brethren across the province were bonded in a common effort to welcome the next generation of Freemasons, reinforcing the strength of the fraternity across geographical boundaries.
Provincial Grand Master Tim Anders commented:
“This event was a celebration of brotherhood. To see such a significant number of men committing to the values of Freemasonry at the same time, across so many centres, speaks volumes about the health and future of the Craft in Buckinghamshire
A huge and heartfelt thanks goes to all the brethren and lodges who took part in this momentous occasion. Your commitment, dedication, sacrificing evenings and weekends and time with your own family made this event not only possible but a shining example of what we can achieve when we come together in support of our Province and each other”
For the 60 new initiates, their journey began with the knowledge that they were part of something bigger than themselves. They didn’t just join a lodge they joined a living network of support, fellowship, and shared purpose that spans across the county and beyond.
The “Big Local” event exemplified what modern Freemasonry is all about: timeless values practiced in contemporary ways, a blend of tradition and innovation, and above all, a thriving community committed to personal growth, charitable work, and meaningful connection.
This momentous event not only welcomed new brethren but also reaffirmed the vibrant energy and unity within Buckinghamshire’s Masonic community. Though held in different rooms, every lodge was connected by ritual, by intention, and by the unbreakable bond of Freemasonry.
One event. Sixty initiations. One united brotherhood.
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