Meeting Pilgrim Lodge’s Senior Warden

We sat down with our Lodge’s Senior Warden (& Lodge Membership Officer) to understand more about why he is a Freemason.

Tell us a little bit more about yourself…

I am 33, joined Freemasonry in 2017, and have an interest in world travel, improving communities, and personal development. I have always been interested in learning about the world around us, and self-discovery. I also believe Freemasonry is something very special.

How long have you been a Freemason and why did you join?

I have been a freemason for around 7 years, having joined in 2017. I was always aware of Freemasonry and interested. However, it wasn’t until I was on holiday in Mexico City one year that I felt the urge to try and join. I came across some Masonic Regalia on display, and it sparked an interest. I spent a few weeks researching, and then contacted the ‘Provincial Grand Lodge of Yorkshire, West Riding’, they put me in contact with Pilgrim Lodge, and I’ve not looked back since.

How would you describe a typical Freemason?

A typical Freemason is trustworthy, loyal and charitable – both with their own time & their money. They are compassionate and don’t hesitate to provide advice or guidance (when it’s in the interest of the other individual). Finally, a Freemason is curious about the world around them, about others, and about themselves.

So, What do you get out of Freemasonry then?

Freemasonry provides me with an extended family of people to talk with, it transcends ages and creeds, it gives me a structure for personal growth, and the tools to measure my life’s actions. Freemasonry has helped me to broaden by understanding of the world, and offered me an environment to reflect on some of the bigger questions in life.

What is your favourite aspect, when it comes to Freemasonry?

I have a particular interest in our ritual and its deeper meanings. I also love seeing members develop themselves over the years.

What’s the atmosphere like at Pilgrim Lodge?

Pilgrim Lodge, is an exceptionally friendly and supporting Lodge. It provides an environment for open dialogue and all the members go out of their way to help each other. We take our Lodge meetings seriously, but still have fun, and there’s a strong focus on the development of each individual.

Belonging to a Monday night Lodge, means that you always have something to look forward to on Sunday nights, when you realise that your weekend is coming to an end.

That’s a nice way of describing Pilgrim Lodge and the benefits of a Monday night Lodge. Tell us one of your best memories while at the Lodge…

Being initiated into Freemasonry was one of the most special moments in my life. However, I think my fondest memory was when I was asked to deliver part of the ritual for the very first time. I was still fairly new to Freemasonry, and the opportunity to be involved was offered to me. Not only was I asked to be involved, but I was supported throughout the learning process, and congratulated afterward. It gave me an initial boost of confidence and made me realise I had joined a group that genuinely cared, and wanted me involved.

If someone was interested in joining Freemasonry, what would you advise them?

Becoming a Freemason is worthwhile. If they believe in a supreme being, whatever that means to them, and they have the time to commit to Freemasonry, then I would suggest they think about which day of the week is best for them. After that I would tell them to contact the Province, Pilgrim Lodge directly (via our website), or a Freemason that they know. It’s important to join a Lodge that suits your personality and your availability.

After being initiated, I would encourage them to get involved with the Leeds Light Blues Club too, which is a group for newer Freemasons in the area.

Thanks for taking the time to talk with us!