It is traditional in a lodge for the exiting Worshipful Master to be presented with a breast jewel to commemorate the time he spent in office. This jewel is usually an old one; possibly because the things are damn expensive and they don’t grow on trees ya know, but mostly because it provides the brother with a link to the history of the lodge. Our ex-WM admits to being a slightly vain person and was hoping that the jewel would not be too tatty and tarnished. He was greatly relieved when his Proposer (Right Worshipful Bro. Miller) presented him with a jewel that, despite being 87 years old was absolutely immaculate in every way. It is engraved with the words ‘West Guildford’ and ‘102 W.A.C’ which is the name and number of the Lodge that eventually became the Bassendean Lodge and it was originally presented to W.B. W.S.G. Livie in 1934. I have quite a few breast jewels because I’m in Chapter but this is by far my favorite one. Not just because it’s unique and a strong link to the history of my Lodge but because, unlike the jewels you get for completing a degree, it’s a reminder of the three wonderful years I spent as WM.

Worshipful Brother Nelo Gallow recently came to the Guildford Bassendean Lodge as a Master Mason and quickly proved himself to be an excellent ritualist. The brethren of the lodge had no hesitation in voting him into the position of Worshipful Master and we look forward to enjoying his leadership for a very long long time. His popularity is evidenced by the number of people who attended his installation. Most of them weren’t paid to attend (a few were there to stop him fleeing when he came to his senses) but, all in all, it was an excellent turnout. The photographer even had to clamber over the seats to get everyone into the shot. It is extremely unfortunate that the Covid restrictions prevented him from enjoying the South. The ceremonial dinner afterward always magnifies the celebratory aspect of the achievement. On the bright side (for the Lodge) it just means that he’ll have to serve another year in the office if he wants to experience that unforgettable event.

The Guildford Bassendean Lodge got off to an excellent post-Covid start this year with the passing (that sounds ominous) of Brothers Richard Mistal and Warren Sunga to the degree of Fellow Craft. This means that… well… they get to sit in a different seat. Consequently, they get to enjoy watching the ceremonies from a new angle and, if they are wise, to start getting a feeling for the charges. You’re not far from being a Master Mason now gentlemen; and you know what that means.

The Swan Chapter got off to an strong post-Covid year with the Exaltation of Bro Arden Gevero to the rank of Companion. He is now qualified to tackle such tricky masonic problems as how to wear a sash correctly and also how to regain control of his hair once he’s got the damn thing on straight.

The Royal Arch degree is (in the editor’s opinion) one of the better degrees since it is the first time that the ol uniform begins to get some serious colour in it. The blue and red stand out strongly against the white of the apron and the black of the suit. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd Principles are standing nearby, of course, in order to entice him to go further and wear a pretty gown as well. Now, if only we can train him to turn up to rehearsals 🙂

Barely had Brother Gevero slipped into his Master Masons apron than he quickly acquired a Mark Master Masons apron as well. He also has a very noticeable jewel to sport at the Craft Lodges. It is, of course, full of hidden meaning and if you don’t know what that is you might want to talk to Worshipful Brother Meerman. Well done Arden. We’re all looking forward to you becoming (to quote Bill & Ted) … EXCELLENT!

Like a caterpillar who, through metamorphosis, transforms into a colourful butterfly, Brother Thomas (who currently serves as our Senior Deacon) has become Companion Thomas. He now trades his pale blue apron for the multi-hued Royal Arch apron and sash. He also has a new and exciting jewel that he can wear in craft lodges to show that he has taken yet another step on his Masonic journey. Well done Fab. Now, about these side degrees 🙂