On Friday, 12th June 2026, brethren gathered in impressive numbers at Aberdare Masonic Hall as the Lodge of Glittering Star No. 322, under the Irish Constitution, conferred the Master Mason Degree upon Bro. Maj. (Rtd.) David Coward.
Members of Glittering Star travelled considerable distances to attend the meeting, with brethren journeying from Kent, Pontefract, North Wales, and throughout the Midlands to be present for this special occasion. Their efforts were rewarded with a remarkable turnout from the Province of South Wales, which included the Provincial Grand Secretary of South Wales, W.Bro. Ben Gait, and the Adept of the Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia (SRIA) in South Wales, Henry Barnes.
The ceremony proved to be a truly memorable spectacle. Distinct from the workings more commonly witnessed in our Craft and Royal Arch meetings, it provided a fascinating insight into the traditions of the Irish Constitution and created an exceptional atmosphere within the Temple. The standard of the ceremony was outstanding throughout, with every officer delivering their ritual with great skill and dedication.
The Lodge of Glittering Star would like to extend its sincere thanks to W.Bro. Robert Murphy for coordinating the evening, and to Lea and Kaiden Dempsey for their hard work and hospitality behind the bar.
Special thanks are also due to Bro. Maj. (Rtd.) David Coward and our sister Lodge, St. Patrick’s Lodge No. 295, for allowing us the privilege of conferring the Master Mason Degree. We would further like to acknowledge and thank V.W.Bro. John Torley, Secretary of St. Patrick’s Lodge, who stepped in at short notice to act as Director of Ceremonies after our own Director of Ceremonies found himself stranded on the A358 awaiting vehicle recovery.
It was a wonderful evening of Irish Freemasonry, excellent ritual, warm fellowship, and lasting memories, enjoyed by all in attendance.