Colne Masonic Lodge

WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?

Freemasonry is a worldwide organisation of like-minded men who meet openly both for their own enjoyment and for the benefit of others.

Freemasonry teaches moral lessons and self-knowledge through participation in a progression of simple two-part ceremonies, which are learnt by heart and performed within each Lodge.

Freemasonry seeks to reinforce thoughtfulness for others, kindness in the community, honestly in business, courtesy in society and fairness in all things.

Members are urged to regard the interests of the family as paramount but importantly Freemasonry also teaches and practices concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help for those in need.

Under the United Grand Lodge of England (which runs the Order) there are over 330,000 Freemasons, meeting in 8,644 lodges. Worldwide there are probably five million members. Freemasonry is said to have originated back in the times when the great Cathedrals and castles were built when “lodges” were formed by stonemasons and other craftsmen to discuss trade affairs. They had simple initiation ceremonies and adopted secret signs and words to demonstrate the level of skills they possessed.

Over the years it has developed into what it is today – do you want to find out more?

 

Freemasonry in Colne

The earliest record of Freemasonry being practiced in Colne was back in 1760 when the Royal Lancashire Lodge used to meet in the upstairs room of what is now called the Market Street Tavern.

In 1920 they moved to their current home in Albert Road which currently accommodates five separate Lodges, Colne Lodge, being one of them. Contrary to popular belief we are not a secret society although we do have certain secrets that are associated with membership but which are aimed at developing trust and unity amongst its members.

Freemasons are ordinary people from various walks of life who want to help others and who are looking for the camaraderie and fellowship of like minded individuals. The Masonic movement is a world wide organisation with charitable objectives that supports local and national charities as well as its own membership and the amount of money given by the Masonic movement to charity is second only to the National Lottery.

Not only that, if there is a disaster anywhere in the world we usually, via the Red Cross, are one of the first to provide practical help to those affected. Individual Lodges throughout the UK give £1,000,000 per week to UK Charities and other good causes. In addition to many other gifts given in 2022 the Masonic movement has given over £500,000 to help the people of the Ukraine.

ColneLife Autumn 2022