The recent Master Masons’ Festival proved to be a tremendous success, bringing together Brethren from across South Wales and beyond, including international visitors from the District Grand Lodge of Pakistan and the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
At the heart of the celebrations was a live Third Degree ceremony, during which Bro James Thomas was Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason on behalf of Glamorgan Lodge No. 36. The ceremony demonstrated not only the dignity and solemnity of the degree, but also the exceptionally high standard of ritual being developed throughout the Province.
A particular highlight was the quality of the ceremonial work delivered by a predominantly “Light Blue” team drawn from Lodges across South Wales. The Provincial Grand Mentor, W. Bro Dr Samuel Williams, remarked that their efforts “demonstrated the depth of ritual knowledge, confidence and enthusiasm among the Light Blue ranks in our Province” and the next generation of Freemasons.
Highlights of the ceremony included the deeply moving Charge over the Grave, delivered by WBro Huw D. R. Lewis PM of Ogmore Lodge No. 1752; the explanation of the Master Mason’s Apron by Bro Alexander Kingston of Universities Lodge Cardiff No. 5461; the Third Degree Tracing Board by Bro Sean G. Sabbage of Dinam Lodge No. 4521; and the resumption of the Traditional History by WBro Ioan-Alexandru Pavel of Duke of York Lodge No. 2453, Senior Warden, W.Bro. Dan Rees PM of Singleton Lodge No. 8399, W.Bro. Ross Williams of Gelligaer Lodge No. 6298 as Junior Warden, Bro. Nick Alban of Dr James Griffith Hall Lodge No. 3161 as Junior Deacon, Bro. Dave Horgan of Welsh Rugby Clubs Lodge No.9986 as Assistant Director of Ceremonies, and W.Bro James Bunyan PM of R.P St John Charles Lodge No. 6466, who led the ceremony in the most assured manner as Worshipful Master.
The Festival was further supported by members of Clwb Colonnade, the Province’s New and Young Masons’ Club. The Working Tools of a Master Mason were presented by WBro David J. Passey PProvGStwd of Lodge of the Seven Seas No. 8603, while WBro Colin J. P. Morgan PProvDGDC of Lodge of Endurance No. 6729 delivered an explanation of the Extended Signs. The Charge in the Third Degree was delivered by WBro Nathan A. Morrison PProvGStB (West Wales) of Llangattock with Howardian Lodge No. 2547.
Reinforcing the message of “One Journey, One Organisation” and the unity of Craft and Royal Arch Masonry as two parts of a single Masonic journey, the ceremony concluded with WBro Nicholas E. Evans PProvSGD of Universities Lodge Cardiff No. 5461 presenting Bro James Thomas with a letter on behalf of the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, together with an introduction to the Royal Arch and its place within Pure Antient Masonry.
The spirit of fellowship continued into the after proceedings, where Brethren enjoyed an informal curry buffet. Dispensing with a formal seating plan encouraged conversation and camaraderie between senior Provincial and Grand Lodge Officers, local Brethren and visitors alike, creating a warm and convivial atmosphere.
During the festive board, WBro Colin J. P. Morgan PProvDGDC, First Principal of Colonnade Chapter No. 7305, delivered an engaging and extemporaneous explanation of the Royal Arch, further emphasising the unity of Craft and Royal Arch Masonry and the opportunities available to Master Masons wishing to continue their Masonic journey.
The Festival demonstrated the enduring vitality of Freemasonry in South Wales, encouraging emerging talent, and showcasing ritual of the highest quality.
The Provincial Membership Lead and Assistant Provincial Grand Master-designate, W. Bro Neil M. Evans, added: “What an occasion! All involved are to be congratulated on an outstanding evening that will long remain in the memories of those present.”
Brethren can already look forward to the return of this highly enjoyable event in 2027, when it promises to be even bigger and better.