Elizabethan Lodge take a Step Back in Time
Elizabethan Lodge held their final meeting before the summer break, in an evening that combined history, hospitality and charity in equal measure.
The Lodge was pleased to welcome Russ Woodland, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Somerset, accompanied by members of the Provincial Team. Their visit coincided with a very special performance by fellow visitors, the Edward Jenner Demonstration Team.
The principal item of the evening was a carefully researched and engaging re-creation of the events surrounding the formation of Grand Lodge in 1717, set in The Goose and Gridiron tavern – the historic venue associated with that seminal gathering. Delivered in full period costume and supported by appropriate props, the demonstration provided both insight and perspective on the early organisation of English Freemasonry. It struck a thoughtful balance between history and entertainment and was very much enjoyed by all present.
The Festive Board that followed maintained the atmosphere of the occasion, with the Demonstration Team attending in their period attire, adding further colour to the proceedings. During the evening a raffle was held, with all proceeds presented to the visiting team in support of the Gloucestershire Festival charity appeal – a gesture reflecting the shared charitable purpose that underpins Freemasonry across all Provinces.
In the days following the meeting, letters were received from both the Assistant Provincial Grand Master and the Edward Jenner Demonstration Team expressing their appreciation for the welcome, hospitality and fraternal spirit shown by the brethren of Elizabethan Lodge.
The evening provided a reminder that understanding our origins strengthens our present, and that fellowship and charity remain central to our practice today.
