We appreciate that not seeing any updates on the site might give the impression that we've gone quiet, but we assure you, the opposite is true!

It’s been an exceptionally busy and rewarding period for our Lodge, with a full calendar of ceremonies reflecting the continued enthusiasm and commitment of our members.

Over recent months, we have had the pleasure of conducting a wide range of ceremonies, including four Firsts, a Double Second, and a Third Degree. Each has been carried out with great care and dedication, showcasing the high standards we strive to maintain and the strong participation from brethren across the Lodge.

Amidst this flurry of activity, we were especially proud to hold our annual Installation meeting in December, where Ray Lathan was installed as Master of the Lodge. This significant occasion, conducted with due ceremony and warmth, was very well attended and marked an important milestone in our Masonic year. We extended our congratulations to Ray and assure him he has our full support for his time in office.

However, it's not all about the regular Lodge nights. We also held our annual social, and for the second year running had Jamagotchi along to entertain us.  We raised £800 for charity on the night, which was donated to the Fire Fighters Charity in memory of Jean Williamson, our long-standing member, and retired fire fighter, Norman's, beloved wife.  

We also, along with some of the other lodges in the building, opened up the doors for Remembrance Day, where bacon sandwiches and refreshments were available for anyone that came in.  Being uniquely placed at the top of Burdon Road, where the parade starts, we are the usual gathering place for the local dignitaries and service personnel.

The following summary highlights the ceremonies carried out month by month, along with accompanying photographs capturing these memorable occasions.

September 2025 Meeting - First Degree for Melvin

October 2025 Meeting - Double Second Degree for Dave and Adam

Social Night in October - Entertained by Jamagotchi

Social Night in October - Entertained by Jamagotchi

Social Night in October - Entertained by Jamagotchi

Opening the hall for Remembrance Day - bacon butties aplenty

Opening the hall for Remembrance Day - the band ready to parade

November 2025 Meeting - Third Degree for Glen (peeking out from behind Wayne!)

November 2025 Meeting - Dave, Glen's brother-in-law, Wayne, the Master, and Glen

December 2025 Installation - The members in attendance

December 2025 Installation - The outgoing Master, Wayne, handing the warrant to the new Master, Ray

December 2025 Installation - Ray in the Chair

December 2025 Installation - The Festive Board

January 2026 Meeting - First Degree for Tom, pictured with his proud Granddad, Norman

February 2026 Meeting - First Degree for Arnel

February 2026 Meeting - Arnel pictured with his friend and proposer, Barrie

March 2026 Meeting - First Degree for Rob

March 2026 Meeting - Rob pictured with his proposer and colleague, Paul (left) and Paul's dad, also Paul (right)

It is heartening to see such consistent engagement and progress within the Lodge, and we look forward to continuing this momentum in the months ahead.

Because it's easier to manage on the go, we are more active on Facebook: Palatine Lodge No. 97  Follow us on there to keep up to date with all of our goings-on.

If you'd like to know more about what we do, or perhaps even join us, please do get in touch for a chat.

RWR