Although Harrow is at latitude 51°.58’, which is a slightly cooler zone than the Tropic of Cancer at 23°.27’, one might have been forgiven in making the assumption that the two were synonymous when on Monday, 30th June 2025, under the blazing heat of a 34°C summers day, the Worshipful Master and Director of Ceremonies of Eastcote St Lawrence Lodge No 8836 led a delegation of Middlesex Masons consisting of three Entered Apprentices and two Master Masons on a memorable visit to the Jubilee Masters Lodge No 2712 in London. Their mission was to seek further enlightenment by witnessing the Bristol Workings and engage with fellow brethren from beyond the familiar borders of Middlesex.
In these “tropical” conditions the group received a warm welcome at Freemasons’ Hall, although cooler might have been better, but before the formalities began immediate refuge was sought in the café for cool drinks to counter the sweltering heat. Spirits were high as the brethren gathered, refreshed themselves, and prepared to enter the Grand Temple. The Entered Apprentices, visibly moved by the majesty of the Temple, enthusiastically captured the moment – phones in hand, smiles on faces.
The Worshipful Master of Jubilee Masters Lodge announced that gloves could be removed due to the warm conditions, much to the relief of all present. The meeting itself was a rich and rewarding experience, filled with insightful teachings and engaging ritual. The Entered Apprentices found the evening particularly enlightening and expressed their appreciation for having been initiated in a Taylors Lodge – especially after witnessing the “brutality” of the Bristol Workings. After the meeting, the Brethren of Eastcote St Lawrence retired to a nearby establishment for refreshments and reflection. The camaraderie shared and knowledge gained made the visit a resounding success. Most importantly, they returned safely to the normally colder climes of Middlesex – grateful not to have been captured by the curious Londoners and ceremonially placed in a pot, as had been jokingly feared.
W Bro Jay Savani said that the visit not only strengthened fraternal bonds but also deepened their appreciation of the diversity and richness of Masonic practice across regions. A heartfelt thank you to the Jubilee Masters Lodge was due for their warm hospitality and memorable evening.
A thanks to W. Bro Jay Savani for the news story.
Final text edited by W. Bro Stan Marut PPrJGD SLGR – Communications Team.
