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Masonic events - Wharfedale

More on Andys Man Club - Here
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Ilkley – Olicana Lodge 1522

March 2025

The Worshipful Master, W.Bro Darren Marchment, has chosen Andy’s Man Club as the charity for 2025.

Nick Hockney, representing Andy’s Man Club, delivered an insightful presentation to the brethren and visitors of Olicana Lodge, highlighting the crucial work the organization does.

Andy’s Man Club operates nationwide, offering free support groups every Monday at 7:00 PM (excluding bank holidays). These groups provide a safe, judgment-free, and non-clinical space for men to open up about the challenges they are facing. The clubs are designed to be pressure-free, allowing participants the option to speak or simply listen, depending on their comfort level. 

W.Bro Andrew Wellock presenting a cheque for over two and a half thousand pounds to Ilkley Good Neighbours.

Ilkley – Olicana Lodge 1522

Tuesday 11th February witnessed the installation of the new master of Olicana Lodge in the 150th year since the consecration of the lodge in 1875.
 
W. Bro Darren Marchment was installed as the 133rd different Master and clearly the most handsome, stylish and debonair Master in the lodge’s history in a superb ceremony enjoyed by a full house.
 
The 150th celebrations begin in earnest on 8th April with a very special extended ceremony with many VIPs in attendance.
 
Masons – Send  us a message to book your place at this very special event.

Alfred Lodge No 306


10th February 2025
On the evening of 10th February 2025, Alfred Lodge witnessed a significant and joyful occasion with the initiation of their newest member, Brother Ashley Howey.
 
The ceremony was conducted with solemnity and dignity, as the Worshipful Master, W.Bro Phoenix Sherlock, presided over the proceedings.
 
With warm and sincere words, W.Bro Sherlock formally welcomed Brother Howey into the lodge, acknowledging his commitment to the values of Freemasonry and his dedication to personal growth, fellowship, and community service.

Ilkley Chapter – 1522

3rd February 2025

The Olicana Chapter held its regular February meeting at the Masonic Hall in Ilkley.

Pictured are the Three Principles, along with Companion Vincent, who was presented with his Supreme Grand Chapter certificate by the esteemed Excellent Companion David Steel, aged 94.

Carl Said: “I am honored to be part of such a vibrant and welcoming chapter, and it is a privilege to receive my certificate from such a distinguished Chapter Mason.”

One of pleasures of Freemasonry - VISITING

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Wharfedale Masons visit Skipton.

31 January 2025

Members from both Otley and Ilkley Masonic Halls traveled to Skipton to witness the installation of Bro. David Bamford into Craven Lodge, joined by numerous other visitors. The ceremony saw Bro. Bamford installed into the Chair of King Solomon. Additionally, W. Bro. Paul Nash, the personal representative of the Provincial Grand Master, presented a certificate to the lodge in recognition of their significant contribution to charity.

Ben Rhydding Lodge – 5138 – Ilkley

January 2025

The Officers of  Ben Rhydding Lodge undertook the first double Initiation Ceremony performed at Ilkley – Led by Master W.Bro Andy Hill.

Brothers;  Marcus  Pretty   and James  Emmott said they were delighted to have joined Freemasonry and really looked forward to learning about Masonry and visiting other Masonic Lodges in the area

Olicana Craft Lodge 1522 – Ilkley

January 2025

In keeping with the tradition of all Masonic Craft Lodges, a Scroll Night was held ahead of the installation of a new Worshipful Master.

The outgoing Master, W.Bro Andrew Wellock, extended his congratulations to Bro Darren Marchment, who will assume the role of Worshipful Master on 11 February 2025.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of Olicana Lodge, and Bro Darren will have the honor of leading the Lodge’s celebrations.

Royal Arch – Olicana Chapter 1522

Ilkley Masonic Hall

January 2025

 Royal Arch – Olicana Chapter 1522 held an extraordinary meeting to perform quite a rare  ceremony:  A Banner Dedication. 

The Chapter is over a 100 years.  Excellent Companion Frank Taylor undertook some significant work to arrange  a fantastic evening. 

Also Present,  The Most Excellent, Grand Superintendent,  James Henry Newman OBE

Ilkley Freemasons –  Carol Service

Once again, W.Bro Roy Dawson organized a beautiful Carol Service and readings in the Lodge rooms at Ilkley Masonic Hall.

The event brought together members from all the Lodges, including Lady Masons, to show support for the Ukrainian community, who graciously attended to share and perform their traditional Christmas songs.

The delightful evening concluded in the Dining Room with a festive spread of Christmas fare. Members of the Ukrainian community also had the opportunity to showcase and sell their homemade merchandise, adding a heartwarming touch to the occasion.

December – 2024

Leodiensis Lodge – Otley 

Brother Carl Vincent receives his Grand Lodge certificate from W.Bro Adi Lyles. 

The certificate serves as proof of a Mason’s membership and standing within the fraternity. It typically includes the member’s name, the date they were initiated, the lodge they belong to, and the signature of the Grand Master or other lodge officials.

In essence, it acts as an important identification for Freemasons, affirming their membership and recognition by the Grand Lodge.

December – 2024

Alfred Lodge – Otley 

The Installation of Bro Phoenix Sherlock.

Past Master W.Bro Steve Lister and Charity Steward Bro Callum Mellon Present a cheque  to W.Bro Fellerman for £1500 to go towards the MCF  – Masonic Charity Fund. 

December – 2024

December – 2024

Olicana Chapter – Holy Royal Arch – the next step in Masonry after Craft – meet  6 times a year. 

December is the partners after Lodge where we share a meal and catch up with friends in a festive spirit

November – 2024

Ben Rhydding Lodge 5138 – Latest new Member: Bro Gavin Patterson was Initiated on Wednesday 20 November by Worshipful Master  –  W.Bro Andrew Hill. 

The Ceremony was supported by many visitors from around the Wharfe Vally Masonic Community. 

Bro Graham said  he was delighted to have joined Ben Rhydding Lodge and really looked  forward to learning about Masonry and becoming involved. 

November – 2024

November meeting saw 40 plus attend the Initiation Ceremony of our latest Brother Alan Speer joining Olicana Lodge. 

Worshipful Master -Andy Wellock proposing a toast at the Festive Board  – A great meal and hilarious banter. A thoroughly great evening.

October – 2024

October saw W.Bro Dave Marshall give a talk titled “Preparing the Candidate for Initiation” All Masons start as an entered apprentice. The ceremony of initiation has 6 symbolic aspects. One of these is the re arranging of an initiates clothing – something often subject of ridicule and humour but has significance in representing a working Stone Mason from the Middle Ages.  The ceremonies in Masonry are for many, quite profound – Whilst you can read about them, experiencing them is something entirely different.

  • Westbourne House
  • Westbourne Close
  • Otley
  • Leeds
  • LS21 3LG
  • Copyright - Otleyfreemasons.com - WBH - MHC - 2025

Visiting - A wonderful aspect of Freemasonry

Visiting is an important practice in Freemasonry for several reasons, and it brings both personal and communal benefits to a Mason.

  1. Strengthening Brotherhood: Freemasonry emphasizes the bonds of brotherhood and fellowship. Visiting other lodges allows Masons to connect with brothers from different areas and backgrounds, expanding their network of relationships within the fraternity. It’s a way to reinforce the sense of unity and shared purpose that transcends geographical boundaries.

  2. Learning and Growth: Every lodge has its own unique practices, rituals, and traditions, even though they all follow a similar basic structure. By visiting different lodges, you can learn new perspectives, deepen your understanding of Masonic teachings, and possibly observe different ritualistic approaches. It’s an opportunity to grow both spiritually and intellectually.

  3. Supporting the Craft: When you visit, you show support for the work being done in other lodges. It strengthens the fraternity as a whole, and your presence can inspire others to continue their work in the craft.

  4. Broader Perspective on Masonic Principles: Through visiting, you are exposed to different cultures and values that Masons may hold. This broader understanding of Masonry can help you to better appreciate its universal teachings on morality, ethics, charity, and personal development.

  5. Personal Enrichment: On a personal level, visiting other lodges allows you to experience different social settings, and it can help you form lasting friendships. The camaraderie, mutual respect, and shared ideals you find in the fraternity can be deeply fulfilling.

In short, visiting lodges allows you to enrich your Masonic journey, contribute to the strength of the community, and expand your understanding of the brotherhood. You gain the benefit of a broader network, more knowledge, and a deeper connection to the principles of Freemasonry.

Leodiensis 4029 at a Glance

Leodiensis Lodge, established over 100 years ago, holds its meetings at Westbourne House in Otley.

For individuals interested in Freemasonry but with limited time, we may be the ideal choice, as we hold only five formal meetings each year, starting at 6:30 pm. These meetings occur on the second Thursday in June (for our Installation), as well as in October, December, February, and April.

In addition to our formal meetings, we gather at least a couple of times each month for regular practices and social events.

The annual membership fee is currently £190. The dress code for our Lodge is a dark suit and white gloves.

 
 
 
 
 
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Leodiensis at a Glance

Leodiensis Lodge No 4029

Why Consider Freemasonry?

Are you at a stage in life where you’re looking for something more—a chance to join an organization that truly makes a positive difference? If so, Freemasonry could be exactly what you’re seeking.

Freemasonry is unlike any other group. It unites individuals from all walks of life, regardless of background, gender, or faith. It’s a community of like-minded people, all bound by a common dedication to helping others and living lives filled with purpose and fulfillment.

If you have a genuine desire to contribute, connect, and grow in meaningful ways, take a closer look at what Freemasonry has to offer.

What makes Freemasonry unique among organizations?

When you join Freemasonry, you begin a journey of personal discovery unlike any other. One of the defining aspects of Freemasonry is the “shared experience” of the Initiation Ceremony—a profound moment for many that marks the start of this path.

Every Mason undergoes this experience upon joining, and several similar rites follow throughout the early stages of Masonic membership. Each step reveals something meaningful about yourself, others, and the rich history of Freemasonry—a tradition practiced across the United Kingdom and worldwide.

What can you expect from Freemasonry.

Moral and Ethical Growth – Freemasonry promotes virtues such as honesty, integrity, compassion, and charity. Members work on improving themselves to become better individuals.  Strong Bonds – Freemasonry fosters deep, lifelong friendships among members who share common values.

Support System – Freemasonry emphasises care for one another, offering emotional and practical support during challenging times.