A Visit to Grey Friars Lodge No. 1101 – Friendship Beyond Your Own Lodge

A few of us from Round Table Thames Valley Lodge No. 9697 recently enjoyed a visit to Grey Friars Lodge No. 1101, which meets at the Berkshire Masonic Centre in Sindlesham. Consecrated in 1866, Grey Friars was the 1,101st Lodge to be established under the United Grand Lodge of England and has a proud history spanning more than 160 years.

One of the great things about Freemasonry is that your journey doesn't stop at your own Lodge. Visiting other Lodges gives you the chance to experience different traditions, meet new people, and make friendships that can last a lifetime.

On this occasion, W.Bro. Allan (far left) and W.Bro. Stan (middle right), who are members of both Grey Friars Lodge and RTTV 9697, welcomed Bro. David and Bro. Darren as visitors. It was a privilege to witness the initiation of a new candidate into Freemasonry – a reminder that our fraternity continues to grow as new members begin their own Masonic journey.

After the meeting, everyone enjoyed an excellent Festive Board featuring delicious Cajun-inspired food, plenty of laughter, and great conversation. The evening also raised a couple of hundred pounds for the Lodge's charitable relief fund, showing once again that charity remains at the heart of everything we do.

In a world where so many people now work remotely or spend much of their day on their own, Freemasonry offers something that's becoming increasingly valuable – genuine human connection. It's about stepping away from screens, sharing experiences, learning from one another, supporting your community, and simply enjoying good company.

Whether you're looking to make new friends, give something back, or become part of a tradition that has stood the test of time, Freemasonry offers all of that and more.

Tradition. Friendship. Community. That's what it's all about.