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The Companions of Legiolium Chapter gathered for a dignified and uplifting Installation Ceremony, marking another significant milestone in the history of the Chapter. The evening was conducted with precision, harmony, and the unmistakable warmth of Royal Arch fellowship.
The Chapter was honoured by the presence of E. Comp. Andrew J. Garnett, PProvGSN, the Personal Representative of the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent in and over the Province of Yorkshire, West Riding. His attendance added great distinction to the occasion, and the Companions were grateful for his support and encouraging words. In a beautifully delivered ceremony, E. Comp. Rumon Hankey was proclaimed as Most Excellent Zerubbabel (MEZ) for a second year, continuing his dedicated and steady leadership. His service over the past year has guided the Chapter admirably, and the Companions offered their full support as he continues in office. The evening also saw the Installation of E. Comp. Stephen Lowe as H and E. Comp. Christian Powell as J. Both Companions were installed with dignity and sincerity, expressing heartfelt thanks for the trust placed in them. Their enthusiasm promises a strong and active year ahead. With three or four potential candidates for Exaltation in the pipeline, the Chapter looks forward to a busy and exciting year of Royal Arch activity. The Principals and Companions are eager to welcome new members and continue strengthening the Chapter. Following the ceremony, Companions and visitors enjoyed a warm and lively Festive Board, filled with excellent company, good humour, and the shared joy of the occasion. The presence of visiting Companions greatly enriched the evening, and their support was warmly appreciated. We extend sincere congratulations to E. Comp. Rumon Hankey, E. Comp. Stephen Lowe, and E. Comp. Christian Powell. May their leadership and dedication continue to guide and inspire Legiolium Chapter throughout the year ahead.
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On 17th November, Legiolium Lodge No. 1542 was delighted to witness the Passing of Bro. Allan da Silva to the Second Degree of Freemasonry. The ceremony was executed in superb style, marking the first ceremony conducted by our new Worshipful Master and his team.
Bro. Allan answered his questions with confidence and understanding, demonstrating his commitment to his Masonic learning and the principles of the Craft. The ceremony flowed seamlessly, with each officer carrying out his part with precision, sincerity, and pride — a true reflection of the harmony and teamwork within the Lodge. Following the ceremony, brethren gathered at the Festive Board, where the spirit of fellowship, brotherhood, and visiting was felt by all. It was an evening filled with warm conversation, good humour, and the shared joy of welcoming a brother’s continued progression in Masonry. We were honoured to welcome our guests on the night, whose company added to the convivial atmosphere and strengthened the bonds of friendship across the Lodge. The brethren of Legiolium Lodge No. 1542 extend their heartfelt congratulations to Bro. Allan da Silva on attaining the rank of Fellow Craft Freemason. We commend him for his dedication, enthusiasm, and fine performance throughout his ceremony, and we look forward to supporting him as he continues his journey towards the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. On this solemn day of remembrance, the brethren of Legiolium Lodge No. 1542 joined the community of Castleford in honouring those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
The brethren proudly took part in the parade alongside local organisations, veterans, and civic groups, marching through the town in unity and respect. Upon reaching the town’s Memorial, W.Bro. William Waters IPM, who is also a veteran, laid a wreath on behalf of the Lodge and Freemasonry, offering a heartfelt tribute to the fallen and to those who served with courage and devotion. Following the wreath-laying ceremony, members attended a moving service at All Saints’ Church, where prayers and reflections reminded all in attendance of the enduring importance of peace, duty, and remembrance. Today, we honour the memory of all who made the ultimate sacrifice—men and women from every walk of life, including many Freemasons who served their country with pride and integrity. Their courage, loyalty, and selflessness continue to inspire us. May we always cherish the peace they fought to secure, and may their legacy forever guide our actions in service to others. “At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.” On Monday, 20th October 2025, Legiolium Lodge was delighted to hold the Installation Meeting of W.Bro. Andrew Scarfe, who was installed into the Chair of King Solomon in a ceremony conducted with dignity, precision, and true Masonic spirit.
We were honoured by the attendance of W.Bro. John E. Vause, PSGD, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, representing the Province, accompanied by W.Bro. Ian N. E. Lewis, Deputy Provincial Grand Master. Their presence greatly enhanced the significance of the evening, and both extended warm congratulations and best wishes to the new Worshipful Master and his officers for the year ahead. The Lodge was also pleased to welcome a delegation from the Company of Past Provincial Stewards whose support and fraternal companionship added further distinction to the evening. A highlight of the night was the presentation of a cheque for £1,542 to the Province in support of the 2028 Festival, reflecting the Lodge’s continued commitment to Masonic charity and the wider aims of Freemasonry. The ceremony was followed by a most convivial Festive Board, filled with friendship, laughter, and true brotherhood. Warmest congratulations to W.Bro. Andrew Scarfe on his Installation, and to all who contributed to such a memorable and successful evening! Today, Legiolium Lodge No. 1542 proudly celebrated the 150th Anniversary of its consecration with a rededication ceremony held at Castle Grove, Leeds, led by the Right Worshipful Brother James Henry Newman, Provincial Grand Master of Yorkshire, West Riding.
In a moment of beautiful symmetry, the attendance today closely echoed that of 150 years ago: around 82 brethren were present at the consecration in 1875, and today we welcomed over 80 brethren to mark this Sesquicentennial milestone. We are grateful to be honoured by distinguished guests today from a number of Grand Lodge Officers, Rulers of the Craft and the Holy Royal Arch in the Province, Provincial Officers, a delegation from the Company of Past Provincial Stewards, Light Blues Freemasons and W.Brothers and Brothers from various lodges. The celebration was made all the more special by the superb rededication ceremony conducted by the Provincial Grand Master himself. This was the first rededication ceremony he has ever led, and it proved to be an unforgettable highlight of the day. Such ceremonies are rare within our Province, and the brethren present felt privileged to witness this historic and moving occasion. Following this, the Provincial Grand Master presented the Worshipful Master with a Sesquicentenary Certificate on behalf of the Province, and members of the Lodge were given a specially designed commemorative collarette to mark the occasion. A particularly memorable moment came when the Provincial Grand Master instructed the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies to present to him W. Bro. Fred Knowles, PPJGW. To the delight of all, it was announced that he had been promoted to PPSGW — a richly deserved honour warmly applauded by the brethren. At the Festive Board, the celebrations continued in great spirit. Visitors were gifted the commemorative collarettes as a token of friendship, to be worn whenever they return to Legiolium Lodge. The Worshipful Master also presented a token of appreciation to the Provincial Grand Master, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and W.Bro. Thomas Gittins PSGD; AsstProvGM of the Province of Durham. The evening concluded with a raffle that raised over £400 towards the Festival — a fitting demonstration of the generosity and unity that has carried the Lodge forward for 150 years. Today’s celebration not only honoured the history of Legiolium Lodge but also reaffirmed the enduring strength of its brotherhood — standing just as strong in 2025 as it did in 1875. This week's meeting was a shining example of how Freemasonry unites personal growth, ritual excellence, and fraternal joy — a true celebration of the journey from darkness to light.
In a beautifully conducted ceremony, Bro. Levi Dawes was passed to the Second Degree, marking his progression as a craftsman of character and intellect. He answered his test questions with clarity and confidence, reflecting his deep engagement with the teachings of the First Degree. As a Fellow Craft, he now embarks on a path of greater understanding — one that challenges the mind and refines the soul. Well done, Brother — you are shaping your Ashlar well. We had the distinct privilege of receiving W.Bro. Malcolm K. Whiteley, PSGD, Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Province of Yorkshire West Riding, who joined us not only in official capacity but also in full ceremonial spirit. As part of Legiolium’s success in the “Gauge the Ruler” campaign for the Festival, W.Bro. Whiteley graciously acted as Junior Warden and contributed to the ritual with exceptional poise and meaning. His delivery of the Address, Working Tools, and Charge After Passing elevated the evening and reminded us of the deep beauty and wisdom contained within our Craft. We were honoured by his presence and humbled by his words. The ceremony was followed by a Festive Board attended by 40 Brethren, with over 20 visitors joining us — including esteemed members of the Company of Past Provincial Grand Stewards and the Yorkshire Rose Light Blues Club. The spirit of Brotherhood was alive and well, as laughter, conversation, and the bonds of shared tradition filled the room. New friendships were made, old ones renewed, and all departed enriched by the warmth of the evening. Moments like these affirm why we gather: to build each other, to celebrate excellence, and to walk the Masonic path together with humility, joy, and purpose. To those who attended — thank you. To those who missed it — we look forward to welcoming you at our next gathering. So mote it be. Our most recent meeting was a profound testament to the timeless journey of Freemasonry — a night where personal growth, charitable service, and honourable leadership all stood in the light of the square and compasses.
The Raising of Bro. Blaine Ruane to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason In one of the most meaningful moments a Brother can experience, Bro. Blaine Ruane was raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. Surrounded by his Brethren, he symbolically passed through darkness into light, embracing the deeper truths and responsibilities of our ancient Craft. His journey now continues with greater purpose, as a builder not only of character but of Brotherhood. The tools are now in his hands — may he wield them with wisdom. Diamond Patron Recognition for Our Lodge’s Enduring Support to WRMCL In a moment of heartfelt pride, Legiolium Lodge No. 1542 was presented with the Diamond Patron Certificate by W.Bro. Duncan Kilbride, Chairman of the West Riding Masonic Charities Ltd (WRMCL). This honour is not merely a recognition of financial generosity, but of a steadfast commitment to one of the central pillars of Freemasonry — Charity. For years, our Lodge has quietly and faithfully served those in need through the WRMCL, and this distinction is a tribute to that quiet, enduring labour. The Homecoming of W.Bro. Ian N.E. Lewis – Deputy Provincial Grand Master It was with tremendous joy that we welcomed back our very own W.Bro. Ian N.E. Lewis, newly appointed Deputy Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Yorkshire West Riding. His elevation is a testament to his years of faithful service, quiet strength, and commitment to the Craft. As a leader, he carries the light of the Province with humility and honour. We are proud not only of his title, but of the integrity with which he has always walked the path of a true Mason. Nights such as these remind us that Freemasonry is more than ceremony — it is a living journey of self-improvement, benevolence, and brotherhood. May we continue to labour with love, meet on the level, and part on the square. So mote it be. A Warm Welcome to Bro. Allan Coelho da Silva
On a memorable evening at Legiolium Lodge, we had the pleasure of initiating Bro. Allan Coelho da Silva into Freemasonry. Originally from Brazil and now residing in Barnsley, Bro. Allan found his way to our Lodge through our website—a modern reminder that the light of Freemasonry shines in every corner of today’s world. With a family Masonic legacy—his father being a Freemason in Brazil—Bro. Allan stepped into the Lodge with a deep respect for the Craft. He completed his First Degree ceremony with dignity and enthusiasm, marking the beginning of what we hope will be a long and fulfilling Masonic journey. We warmly welcome Bro. Allan into the timeless Brotherhood of Freemasonry and the fellowship of Legiolium Lodge. We look forward to seeing him grow in light, knowledge, and involvement in the Lodge. Welcome, Bro. Allan! On the 3rd Monday of this month, Bro. Kieran Chadwick marked a significant milestone in his Masonic journey as he was passed to the degree of a Fellow Craft in a well-conducted and sincere ceremony. This important step signifies his continued dedication to the Craft, deepening his understanding of its principles and the responsibilities that come with progress in Freemasonry.
It was a particularly special occasion as his proposer and seconder, W.Brothers Moody and Proctor, were present to witness his passing. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in his journey so far, and their pride in his progress was evident throughout the evening. Following the ceremony, brethren gathered at the Festive Board, where the warmth of Masonic fellowship was truly felt. The presence of eight visiting brethren added to the convivial atmosphere, reflecting the strong bonds of unity and brotherhood that Freemasonry fosters. Heartfelt congratulations and good wishes were extended to Bro. Chadwick as he continues to seek knowledge and personal growth within the Craft. May this next stage of his journey bring further enlightenment, understanding, and fulfilment in Freemasonry. As the year draws to a close, we gathered for our final regular meeting of 2024, a night filled with warmth, fellowship, and reflection on the year gone by.
A special highlight of the evening was welcoming back our re-joining member, W.Bro. John O'Mara, who served as Worshipful Master of Legiolium Lodge in 2007. It was truly heartwarming to see him back not as visitor but yet again a member of our Lodge. Though the festive season is upon us, we were delighted to host two visiting brethren at the Festive Board. Their presence reminds us that the spirit of unity and brotherhood extends far and wide, enriching our Masonic experience. The evening concluded with the Worshipful Master sharing his heartfelt Christmas greetings and best wishes for a joyous New Year with all brethren, their families, and friends. As we close the year, we reflect with gratitude on the shared moments of learning, fellowship, and growth within our Lodge. May the spirit of Freemasonry continue to guide and inspire us as we look forward to another year of meaningful labour. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us at Legiolium Lodge No. 1542! So mote it be. |
Peter Joseph BustosLodge Communications Team Archives
December 2024
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