Sometimes the best visits are the ones that aren’t planned months in advance!
On Friday 24th July, The Prince of Wales Lodge was delighted to welcome W.Bro. Brian Barton to Stow-on-the-Wold during an impromptu stop on his journey to an Army Logistics Freemasons’ Lodge meeting taking place the following day.
Brian and our own Ian Jackson have been in regular contact over the past few years, ever since The Prince of Wales Lodge purchased one of Brian’s beautifully handcrafted Nautical Cable Tows in support of Masonic charitable fundraising. Although they had spoken many times, this was the first opportunity for the two to finally meet in person.
As a Grand Officer of the United Grand Lodge of England and a former Chief Petty Officer in the Royal Navy, Brian is well known throughout Freemasonry for his craftsmanship, his charitable work and his passion for the future of the Craft. Ian, also a military veteran, was pleased to show Brian around our historic Lodge building before the pair did what veterans do best—pulled up a sandbag, swapped a few dits and put the world to rights!
It quickly became apparent that Brian and Ian share a real passion for one of the most important aspects of modern Freemasonry: making sure every member enjoys a rewarding and fulfilling Masonic journey. Their conversation focused on attracting good men into Freemasonry, but just as importantly, ensuring that once they join, they feel welcomed, valued, involved and supported throughout their membership.
The discussion covered mentoring, Lodge culture, engaging ceremonies, meaningful social events, supporting newer members and ensuring that every Brother feels that he belongs. Both agreed that membership isn’t simply about growing numbers—it’s about creating an experience that members genuinely enjoy and look forward to, encouraging them to remain active and to recommend Freemasonry to others.
Another topic close to both their hearts was helping people better understand what Freemasonry is really about. Much of the public only sees the ceremonial side of Freemasonry, but both Brian and Ian are keen to highlight the tremendous amount of charitable and community work carried out every day by Freemasons across the country.
The United Grand Lodge of England website showcases countless examples of Freemasons supporting local communities through charitable giving, volunteering and practical assistance, while our own Prince of Wales Lodge website highlights many of the projects undertaken by our members across the North Cotswolds. From supporting local schools, community groups and food banks to helping local charities and organisations, Freemasonry continues to make a real difference in the communities where we live and work. It’s a message both Brian and Ian believe deserves to be shared more widely.
It was also a pleasure to show Brian some of the history of The Prince of Wales Lodge and our Hilltop Lodges, along with the framed Nautical Cable Tow display that now has pride of place in our Lodge.
As with all good conversations between veterans and Freemasons alike, the hour disappeared far too quickly. It was a genuine pleasure to finally put a face to the name after several years of friendship and conversation, and Ian thoroughly enjoyed Brian’s visit.
We very much hope this will be the first of many visits and look forward to welcoming Brian back to one of our regular Lodge meetings in the very near future.
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