A New Brother Welcomed at the Lodge of Honour – Regular Meeting, November 2026
The Lodge of Honour No. 379 held its Regular Meeting on Monday 9 November 2026 at Bath Masonic Hall, with an evening that brought together an important milestone for the Lodge, the election of its officers and a warm welcome to a new member of the Craft.
The highlight of the evening was the initiation of Mr Mitchell, who was welcomed into Freemasonry by the Worshipful Master, W Bro S Aziz, assisted by his Wardens and several Past Masters.
A Family Connection Leads to the Lodge of Honour
Our candidate’s journey towards Freemasonry began some years ago. His grandfather was a Freemason and had encouraged him to consider joining while he was still alive. At the time, he decided not to pursue it.
His interest returned more recently, and he approached RW Bro David Medlock, a friend’s father, to find out more about Freemasonry and the experience of becoming a member. RW Bro David recommended that he consider joining the Lodge of Honour.
Following an invitation to meet members over drinks and visits to a couple of our meetings, our candidate had the opportunity to get to know the brethren and learn more about the Lodge. Having taken time to consider his decision, he was proposed for membership and, following a successful ballot at our October meeting, was welcomed as our newest member.
It was particularly pleasing to see a family connection with Freemasonry continue into a new generation, with our candidate now beginning his own Masonic journey. Also present was his grand uncle who is also a mason in London who explained that there is certainly a strong family connection with Freemasonry as there are others in the family whom are also Freemasons.
An Initiation to Remember
The ceremony was conducted by the Worshipful Master, W Bro S Aziz, who delivered the Obligation, the North East Corner and the Charge After Initiation. He was assisted by W Bro G Ifill, who delivered the Entrustment, and W Bro Simon Lingard, who presented the Working Tools. The Wardens and Past Masters also played their part in supporting the ceremony, helping to make it a memorable occasion for our new Brother. The Lodge congratulates our new brother on taking this important first step in Freemasonry. We hope he will find friendship, enjoyment and many rewarding experiences in the years ahead.
Elections for the Year Ahead
November is also an important month in the Lodge calendar, as brethren elect those who will take responsibility for the Lodge and its administration in the coming year.
W Bro Stanistreet was elected Worshipful Master, with W Bro Sharples elected Treasurer. Both were elected unopposed. W Bro Stanistreet thanked the brethren for their confidence and trust. He looks forward to taking the Chair once again, 33 years after his previous year as Worshipful Master, and pledged to give the office his best efforts.
W Bro G Ifill was elected Tyler. The brethren also elected Bro Thomas and Bro Beauchamp to serve on the Lodge Committee, while W Bro B Church and Bro S Pun were elected as Account Examiners.
We congratulate all those elected and thank them for their willingness to serve the Lodge.
Recognising Regular Giving to Somerset Festival 2031
Under Any Other Masonic Business, the Lodge’s Charity Steward, W Bro G Ifill, presented Honorific Jewels to three brethren in recognition of their regular contributions towards Somerset Festival 2031.
The presentations were:
- Grand Patron Jewel: W Bro R Bull
- Vice Patron Jewel: W Bro S Lingard
- Steward Jewel: Bro A Stanistreet
The Worshipful Master also presented W Bro G Ifill with his Steward Jewel in recognition of his own regular giving.
These presentations recognise the commitment of our brethren to supporting the charitable work of the Masonic community. Regular giving provides a dependable source of support for the Masonic Charitable Foundation and the causes it helps.
The Lodge continues to encourage brethren to take part in the Somerset 2031 Festival effort, with fundraising and individual contributions forming an important part of our commitment.
A Warm Welcome at the Festive Board
Following the closing of the Lodge, brethren and visitors retired in procession to the Festive Board, where the celebrations continued. RW Bro David Medlock proposed a toast to our newly initiated Brother. The occasion provided a fitting opportunity to welcome him formally into the wider Masonic family.
The Entered Apprentice Song was sung, with members and guests joining in, before the Masonic Chain was formed. The Director of Ceremony then gave its explanation, sharing this important moment with our newest Brother. He responded to the welcome and the good wishes of those present, rounding off a memorable first evening as a Freemason.
There was plenty of conversation, singing and good fellowship around the tables, and everyone enjoyed the meal and drinks. The evening also raised money for charity.
Looking Ahead
November’s meeting was a rewarding evening for the Lodge. We welcomed a new Brother, elected those who will serve in important offices, and recognised the generosity of brethren supporting Somerset Festival 2031.
Above all, we were delighted to welcome our new brother into the Lodge of Honour. We wish him every success and enjoyment as he begins his Masonic journey, and look forward to seeing him take his place among the brethren in the years ahead.
