On Tuesday, 3rd December, Osterley Lodge No. 6430 held their 309th regular meeting at Cole Court, and it was nothing short of remarkable.
The Lodge showcased its commitment to brotherhood and tradition with a Grand Lodge Certificate presentation, a Third Degree ceremony, and an Initiation, making it a truly action-packed occasion.
Faced with the challenge of combining two ceremonies, the Lodge made extraordinary efforts to accommodate its packed schedule. Members and guests were given flexibility, with the option to join from the start at 3 p.m. or arrive at the interval when the Lodge transitioned from labour to refreshment
This meeting reflected a uniquely international flavour. W. Bro. Artur Ghazaryan, the Inner Guard, hails from Georgia and grew up in Armenia. His son-in-law, Bro. Rodi Mirza, the Junior Deacon, is from Syria. Bro. Matei Rusu, the Senior Deacon, is Finnish, and the initiate, Bro. Cem Congar (pronounced “Gem”), was born in Turkey.
All these brethren represent neighbouring nations, none of which share English as a first language. What could possibly go wrong? As it turned out, absolutely nothing!
The ceremonies, including the Raising of Bro. Darren Webster, were performed with an impressive standard of ritual, blending contributions from the Near East and Northern Europe seamlessly. The Osterley Light Blues were especially active, with Bro. Max Davies presenting the working tools to the initiate.
The Third Degree was delivered with poise by W. Bro. Ron Davidson, while the First Degree was conducted by the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Malcolm Woolgar. W. Bro. Ken Johnstone concluded with a heartfelt Charge to the Initiate.
The Lodge is now looking forward to another double-header—a Passing and an Initiation—scheduled for 11th February 2025. Osterley Lodge 6430 continues to prove that good neighbours make excellent Masons!
The initiate, Bro. Cem Congar (pronounced “Gem”)
