Singleton Lodge No.8399 held its 214th Regular Meeting on 16 March 2026 at the Masonic Hall, St Helen’s Road, Swansea, where a significant evening of ceremonial work took place.
The primary purpose of the meeting was to raise eight candidates to the Third Degree of a Master Mason. However, due to one unavoidable absence, seven brethren were successfully raised during two well-executed ceremonies. Among those raised was a student currently studying at Swansea University, while the other candidates reflected the diversity of the Lodge’s membership, including an Opticians Manager, Construction Engineer, Civil Servant, Sound Engineer, Café Owner and Insurance Damage Assessor. All had been introduced and encouraged to join by existing members. The Lodge was opened earlier than usual at 17:30 to accommodate the higher number of candidates, with an impressive attendance of 32 members and 28 visitors, including representatives from the mother lodge, Glantawe Lodge, and sister lodge, Old Goreans Lodge, demonstrating strong support from other lodges.
The beginning of the meeting was paused in reflection to mark the passing of W.Bro. Chris Pike, the lodge’s organist, whose significant contribution to the lodge for many years was warmly remembered by all present.
The ceremonies were conducted by Worshipful Master W.Bro. Darren Blann and his officers, all of whom were ‘light blue’ Master Masons, making the occasion particularly noteworthy. Delivered with precision and a very high standard of ritual, the ceremony was carried out in two parts – initially raising four brethren before calling off, and then calling on and completing the raising of the remaining three, after which all seven were brought together to complete the final stage and be introduced to the next step of their Masonic journey.
In addition to ceremonial proceedings, members received updates on Lodge business, including forthcoming fundraising efforts in support of the 2032 Festival and ongoing financial matters. Elections for the ensuing year were also conducted, with Bro. Mart Taylan declared Master Elect.
Looking ahead, Singleton Lodge will deliver a demonstration at the Universities Scheme Conference in Cardiff this April, an honour that recognises the Lodge’s high standard of ceremonial work and its proven expertise in conducting ceremonies involving multiple candidates.
After the meeting concluded, it was followed by the customary Singleton Lodge Festive Board, well known for it’s relaxed atmosphere and good humour, providing an enjoyable and welcoming setting for members and visitors alike.