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.