Blog by WBro Anthony James ProvGSdB

Earlier this afternoon, while out walking my dog in the park, I noticed the clear signs of the changing season. Snowdrops and daffodils were in bloom, the sun was shining, and the temperature had become noticeably warmer, an unmistakable indication that spring had arrived. This time of year also coincides with Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which falls in March and is precisely aligned with the vernal equinox. This astronomical event marks the exact beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, when day and night are of equal length. Based on the Solar Hijri calendar and careful astronomical observation, Nowruz celebrates renewal, balance, and the reawakening of nature.

The Lodge was opened in the usual manner, and the standard business of the meeting was conducted efficiently. The Worshipful Master, Arash Vesali, then shared the sad news that one of our senior brethren, WBro Colin Pegg, had passed to the Grand Lodge Above. As many of the brethren present had not known WBro Pegg personally, Bro David Turner delivered a thoughtful eulogy in his memory. This was followed by a minute’s silence, observed with due respect and reflection.

Proceedings were then concluded in good order, as attention turned to the main event of the evening, the festive board. As this was a “White Table” occasion, the ladies had gathered separately and waited patiently for the Lodge to close.

Arash, together with his wife Susan, had clearly made considerable effort to prepare a memorable evening. The dining area was beautifully arranged with a Persian theme, the centrepiece of which was the traditional Haft-Seen table (Sofreh Haft-Seen), set out with great care and attention to detail. This symbolic display represents key elements of life, renewal, and prosperity, and provided an elegant and meaningful focal point for the evening.

The meal itself was a delightful introduction to Persian cuisine. We began with aubergine served in a richly spiced tomato sauce, followed by a main course of beef stew accompanied with rice. Dessert was a traditional Persian saffron rice pudding, served cold, which made for a refreshing and enjoyable conclusion to the meal.

Following dinner, we were treated to a musical interlude. Arash had invited a Persian musician, Pedraum Agahi, who performed on a traditional instrument known as the Santoor. The music was both soothing and captivating, creating a calm and reflective atmosphere. The instrument itself has a long and distinguished history, with origins dating back over 2,500 years, and has appeared in early cultural records, including ancient Assyrian reliefs.

Arash then delivered an informative and engaging talk on Nowruz, explaining its connection to the vernal equinox and its wider cultural significance. He also described the meaning behind the Haft-Seen table. The term “Haft-Seen” translates to “seven S’s,” referring to the seven symbolic items placed on the table, each beginning with the Persian letter “S”:

• Sabzeh (sprouted greens) – representing rebirth and growth
• Seeb (apple) – representing beauty and health
• Seer (garlic) – representing protection and medicine
• Samanu (sweet pudding) – representing strength and resilience
• Senjed (dried fruit) – representing love and affection
• Somaq (sumac spice) – representing the colour of sunrise and patience
• Serkeh (vinegar) – representing age, wisdom, and acceptance

In addition to these, the table is often adorned with a mirror, candles, goldfish, hyacinth flowers, painted eggs, coins, a book of poetry, and a selection of traditional pastries, each contributing further symbolic meaning.

The celebration of Nowruz traditionally continues for thirteen days, during which families and friends visit one another, strengthening relationships and marking the new year with hospitality and goodwill.

The evening was a thoroughly enjoyable and enriching cultural experience. My sincere thanks go to Arash and Susan for their effort, hospitality, and for sharing both the traditions and the deeper meaning behind this important celebration.

Nowruz Mobarak.

Blog by W.Bro Anthony James, ProvGStdB

 The Lodge was a hive of activity as final preparations were made for the evening’s ceremony. At the Technical Lodge, it is customary for every ceremony to be delivered to the highest standard, with great pride taken to ensure that each part is polished, meaningful, and conveyed with genuine sincerity.

 The ceremony concluded with the traditional questions and answers which the candidate must make himself acquainted with before he can take a higher degree.  The Worshipful Master asked the questions and they were answered by the Wardens. Bro Jordan Prichard then retired briefly to resume his usual attire, before re-entering the Lodge to take his place among us as a Brother Mason.

The remaining business of the evening was conducted, after which the Lodge was closed. Members then retired to the festive board, where the usual toasts were given by the Worshipful Master. 

W.Bro Ian Parkinson proposed the principal toast to our newly initiated Brother, Jordan Prichard, who responded with heartfelt pride and dignity.

Saturday 28th February 2026 – Wbro Anthony James

This was my first visit to Invictus Lodge No. 9960 in York, and like many first visits, it started with a small adventure. I managed to miss the entrance on my first attempt and had to take a steady drive around the block before finding it on the second pass. In hindsight, it felt like a fitting introduction, as the evening itself proved to be both unique and memorable.

On arrival, I was greeted warmly by Tony Randle, whose welcome immediately set the tone for the evening. I was introduced to several members of the lodge, and it quickly became evident that this was no ordinary lodge. Being a military lodge, there was a distinct atmosphere from the outset, with a level of camaraderie and inter-forces banter that was both good-humoured and constant throughout the evening. It gave the lodge a lively and relaxed character, while still maintaining the dignity of the occasion.

The Worshipful Master opened the lodge precisely at 16:30, and proceedings began with a sense of discipline that one might expect from a lodge with such strong military ties. One moment that stood out early on was when the Inner Guard sought permission from the Worshipful Master to “Stand the lodge to.” Permission was granted, and the Invictus badge was displayed. This was a distinctive and symbolic touch that set the lodge apart from others I have visited.

Greetings were then given from both Grand Lodge Officers and Provincial Officers, before the Worshipful Master requested that all Entered Apprentices retire from the lodge, allowing it to be opened in the Second Degree.

The work of the evening soon followed, with three Fellowcrafts having their proficiencies tested. Having successfully completed this, they retired to prepare themselves for the ceremony that lay ahead.

The lodge was then opened in the Third Degree, but in a manner I had not witnessed before. The knocks were given almost as a whisper, ensuring that those Fellowcrafts waiting outside would not be exposed to knowledge they were not yet entitled to receive. This level of care and attention to detail was impressive and demonstrated a deep respect for the integrity of the ritual.

What followed was a triple Third Degree ceremony, and it was clear that this lodge, with its military background, was well accustomed to adapting to circumstances and managing multiple candidates efficiently.

As the three Fellowcrafts re-entered the lodge, the ceremony began in earnest. Each candidate was guided carefully, shown how to approach the pedestal with the proper steps. A particularly thoughtful aspect was the use of guides. Each Fellowcraft had a guide standing behind him, gently tapping his shoulder when it was his turn to respond or take part in the obligation. This ensured the ceremony flowed smoothly, while also supporting the candidates throughout.

During the retrospect, only one of the Fellowcrafts stood to receive the full explanation, while the other two remained as witnesses, standing over the representation of Hiram Abif at this stage of the ceremony. This approach allowed all three to experience the ceremony together, while also maintaining efficiency and avoiding unnecessary repetition. It was a practical solution that worked well without diminishing the significance of the moment.

Another element that stood out to me came at the close of the Third Degree. The degree was closed by the two Wardens enacting the substituted secrets, referencing the loss of the genuine secrets through the untimely death of Hiram Abif. This was something I had never seen performed in this way before, and I found it both informative and thought-provoking.

Following this, the Senior Warden explained these substituted secrets to the Worshipful Master, after which the lodge was lowered to the Second Degree. There were no Fellowcrafts to be readmitted, and the lodge was then further lowered in full before being opened in the First Degree. Again, there were no Entered Apprentices to return, allowing the lodge to continue its work uninterrupted.

This meeting also marked the Worshipful Master’s final time in the chair. He took a moment to thank his Officers and Brethren for their support throughout his year, acknowledging the effort and commitment that had gone into making it a success. It was a sincere and fitting conclusion to his tenure.

The Inner Guard sought permission from the Worshipful Master to “Stand the lodge down.” Permission was granted, and the Invictus badge was respectfully withdrawn. The lodge was then closed in due form, and we retired to the festive board.

As is often the case, the formalities of the National Anthem and toasts were observed first, but what followed was a noticeably relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The earlier military banter returned, conversations flowed easily, and the evening concluded on a warm and convivial note.

If anyone is considering visiting a lodge outside of their usual circle, I would certainly recommend adding Invictus Lodge to the list. It offers something a little different, combining strong ritual, thoughtful practices, and a unique character shaped by its military background. For me, it was a thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile visit.

Arriving at the Masonic Hall in Beverley early on Sunday morning, the atmosphere was already charged with quiet anticipation. Brethren from across the Province had gathered, many well before the appointed hour, ready to take part in what promised to be a memorable and historic occasion.

As Provincial Grand Standard Bearer, I had the honour and privilege of attending in my active role, representing the Province during the ceremony. It is a distinction that few have the opportunity to hold, and I am deeply aware of the trust and responsibility it carries. Bearing the Standard is both a visible symbol of loyalty and a reminder of the unity that binds us as Freemasons.

The Birth of Semper Paratus Lodge

The newly consecrated Lodge bears the proud Latin name Semper Paratus, meaning Always Ready. It is a fitting title for a lodge dedicated to those who serve on the very front line of emergencies. Its founders are drawn from the ranks of the Police, Fire and Rescue Service, Ambulance Service, Medical Services, RNLI, Coastguard, and other vital emergency professions. These are men and women who live the principles of preparedness, courage, and service, qualities that lie at the heart of Freemasonry itself.

Rehearsal and Ceremony

The rehearsal began in the usual fashion, a collection of moving parts that at first seemed scattered, almost like the contents of a jigsaw puzzle tipped across a table. Each brother found his place, each instruction was fine-tuned, and slowly the rhythm began to settle as the picture took shape.

When the Consecration Ceremony commenced, that once-scattered puzzle became a perfectly composed image, a work of precision, reverence, and brotherhood. It was, in every sense, Freemasonry at its finest.

The ceremony was led by the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Dr David Chambers, whose calm authority and heartfelt words gave the day a sense of gravitas and unity. During the consecration, he blessed the new lodge with the traditional emblems of Corn, Wine, and Oil, before finally sprinkling Salt around the Founders. Each act was steeped in history and symbolism.

The Deeper Symbolism

These four elements, Corn, Wine, Oil, and Salt, form the cornerstone of Masonic consecration, each rich with meaning and purpose.

Corn (Grain) represents nourishment, plenty, and the bounty of the earth. It serves as a reminder of the rewards of honest labour and the prosperity earned through diligence.

Wine signifies refreshment and joy, symbolising celebration and the spirit of fellowship that strengthens the bonds of our Craft.

Oil carries the meaning of peace, healing, and blessing. In ancient times it was used to anoint kings and priests, marking them as chosen and sanctified. Within our ceremony, it represents the presence of divine favour and the consecration of the lodge itself.

Salt, humble yet eternal, symbolises purity, preservation, and fidelity. It reminds us of the enduring nature of our Masonic obligations and the incorruptible truth we strive to uphold.

Together, these four sacred elements embody the full measure of Freemasonry’s purpose: to nourish, to gladden, to heal, and to preserve. Their use within the consecration ritual invokes spiritual strength, prosperity, and harmony for the lodge and all who labour within it.

Handing Over the Lodge

After the ceremony, the newly formed lodge was formally handed over to the brethren. The Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Dr David Chambers, together with other respected officials, was then paraded out of the lodge, leaving the members to conduct their own business for the first time. The lodge was closed in due form, marking the completion of its inaugural meeting. Shortly afterwards, we were all invited back in for official photographs, capturing the moment for history and memory alike.

Later, the celebrations continued downstairs, where the festive board was filled with joy, laughter, and true comradeship. It was a fitting conclusion to a day that embodied everything Freemasonry stands for; ceremony, unity, and friendship.

A Lodge ‘Always Ready’

As the day drew to a close and brethren reflected on what had been achieved, there was a shared sense of pride and belonging. Semper Paratus Lodge will stand as a beacon for those who dedicate their lives to protecting, serving, and responding in times of emergency, a lodge built on readiness, dedication, and brotherly support.

For me personally, to serve as Provincial Grand Standard Bearer during such a momentous occasion was both humbling and uplifting. It was a visible reminder that Freemasonry remains not just a tradition but a living, breathing brotherhood, always ready to serve, to support, and to build.

The ceremony, rich in meaning and delivered with precision, truly marked a milestone: a moment where ritual, symbolism, and humanity came together in perfect harmony.

By Anthony James, Worshipful Master, PGStB