By Anthony James, ProvGStdB

 

It is strange how things in life sometimes seem to link together.

Earlier in the day, while working on my latest book and researching new content for the UK Author Promotion website, I came across the name François-Marie Arouet, better known to the world as Voltaire.

By coincidence, on this very date, 16th May 1717, Voltaire was imprisoned in the Bastille for refusing to stay silent in the face of ignorance and injustice. That seemed particularly fitting on an evening centred around the Second Degree, with its emphasis on learning, understanding, and the steady pursuit of knowledge.

Voltaire was never afraid to question accepted ideas, think for himself, or search for truth. Those qualities sit comfortably alongside the lessons of the Fellow Craft Degree, which reminds us that knowledge is not something we simply receive. It is something we work for, value, and use with courage.

Later in life, Voltaire became a Freemason, joining a fraternity whose values of knowledge, tolerance, and personal growth reflected much of what he had stood for throughout his life. There is a popular misconception that Benjamin Franklin initiated Voltaire. In Fact Benjamin Franklin did not “initiate” Voltaire in the sense of being the Worshipful Master conducting the ceremony. The more accurate version is that Franklin assisted at Voltaire’s Masonic initiation and acted as one of his conductors, alongside Antoine Court de Gébelin.

As Bro. Michael Carr was to be passed to the Second Degree, it felt fitting to reflect on that same search for knowledge and understanding. The Fellow Craft Degree encourages us to think more deeply, continue learning, and keep building our character. It also reminds us, through its own words, of the importance of extending our research. Voltaire’s life is a fine example of that principle in action, a man who never stopped questioning, studying, and searching for truth.

His example reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile.

On arrival at the Lodge, it was lovely to see Bro. Ken Wright back with us after a period of ill-health. His presence had certainly been missed, and it was good to see him once again among friends and Brethren.

At the appointed time, the Director of Ceremonies, W.Bro. Rob Atkinson, called the Brethren to assemble upstairs and prepare for the evening’s proceedings. I took my seat as Immediate Past Master, ready for what promised to be another memorable night in the Lodge.

Unfortunately, W.Bro. Ian Parkinson, Tyler, was unable to attend this evening, but W.Bro. Frank Lovely kindly stepped in and carried out the role, ensuring everything continued smoothly.

The Lodge was opened in due and ancient form, with every Officer carrying out his duties with warmth, dignity, and feeling. Greetings were then given to W.Bro. Eddie Wildman, an Officer on the roll of the Grand Lodge of England.

As an active Provincial Officer, ProvGStdB, it was an honour to take part in the Honour Guard for W.Bro. Paul Harper, the Representative of the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master. It added a real sense of occasion to the evening and set the tone for what was to follow.

Once everyone was seated, the minutes of the last regular meeting were confirmed as an accurate record, and a portion of the ancient charges was read aloud.

Bro. Carr was then asked by the Worshipful Master whether it was his wish to take a higher degree in Freemasonry. Bro. Carr confirmed that it was. He was then placed in the care of the Junior Deacon, Bro. Malcolm Gambles, before the Worshipful Master proceeded to test him on the questions with which he had been asked to make himself acquainted.

Bro. Carr answered each one clearly and confidently, showing the effort he had put into his preparation and acquitting himself extremely well.

Having then been instructed in that which would form his necessary passport to gain admission to a Fellow Craft Lodge, he retired from the Lodge to prepare himself to be passed to the Second Degree. The Worshipful Master, aided by his Officers, then opened the Lodge in the Second Degree.

Why “Passed” to the Second Degree?

The phrase “passed to the Second Degree” has its roots in the language of the old operative craft. In earlier times, an apprentice who had learned enough of his trade, shown competence, and proved himself ready for greater responsibility could be passed by his master to the next stage of training.

Freemasonry preserved this wording, giving it a deeper moral and symbolic meaning within the ceremony.

In the UK, the Second Degree focuses strongly on education, knowledge, personal development, and the lessons connected with the working tools of a Fellow Craft. It marks a clear step forward from the First Degree, moving the candidate from the foundations of initiation into a broader understanding of Masonic learning.

To be “passed” therefore symbolises that the candidate has demonstrated sufficient understanding of the First Degree, shown readiness to advance, and been approved by the Lodge to continue his Masonic journey.

It is not simply a promotion or a change of title. It is a recognition of progress, both in knowledge and character, and reminds us that the early stages of our Masonic journey are part of a much wider path towards deeper understanding and, in time, mastery.

Tonight, outside the door of the Lodge, our candidate, Bro. Michael Carr, waited with that familiar mixture of nerves, curiosity, and excitement that every Mason will recognise. The Second Degree marks a significant step on a man’s journey in Freemasonry, bringing with it both honour and challenge.

S.W. Bro. Ed Thompson, acting as Senior Deacon, guided Bro. Carr through the ceremony in a calm and steady manner, helping him through each stage with quiet confidence and reassurance.

The Worshipful Master carried out the obligation with confidence, apart from one slight slip of the tongue, when reference was made to the “Grand Magician of the Universe”. A little laughter could be heard around the room as the Brethren realised what had been said. It was one of those harmless human moments that brings a smile to an evening, without taking anything away from the ceremony itself.

The communication was delivered by Bro. David Turner, who carried out his part with confidence and clarity.

Bro. Tunnicliffe, Senior Warden, then had the honour of investing Bro. Carr with his Fellow Craft apron, the distinguishing badge of this degree. It was a simple but meaningful moment, marking Bro. Carr’s progress in Freemasonry and his advancement to the next stage of his Masonic journey.

I then had the pleasure of delivering the Address at the South-East Corner, a piece of ritual that holds particular personal significance for me, as it was one of the very first pieces I ever learned and performed in Lodge.

For that reason, it has always stayed with me. Returning to it on this occasion brought back a real sense of reflection, not only on my own early steps in Freemasonry, but also on the journey Bro. Carr was now beginning as he advanced further in the Craft. It was a privilege to deliver those words to him and to play a small part in such an important evening.

The Working Tools were presented by Bro. Ken Wright, and it was especially good to see him involved in the ceremony after his recent absence.

The Second Degree Charge was then brilliantly delivered by our stand-in Chaplain, Bro. David Turner, whose delivery added real warmth and dignity to the evening.

The Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Arash Versali, together with his Officers, had clearly worked hard in preparation, and their efforts showed throughout. They delivered a superb ceremony, one that was well organised, respectful, and enjoyable to witness.

Bro. John Hemingway was then presented with his Grand Lodge Certificate by W.Bro. Eddie Wildman, who carried out the presentation with his usual warmth, flair, and enthusiasm.

Bro John Hemingway and W Bro Eddie Wildman

 

It was a lovely moment in the evening, made all the more memorable by the way W.Bro. Eddie spoke. His delivery brought both importance and good humour to the occasion, ensuring that Bro. Hemingway’s achievement was properly recognised and warmly celebrated by all present.

The Worshipful Master then had the pleasure of presenting W.Bro. Paul Harper with a certificate of payment for £500 towards the Festival. It was a proud moment for the Lodge, reflecting the continued generosity and commitment of the Brethren in supporting such an important cause. The presentation was warmly received and served as a fitting reminder of the charitable spirit that sits at the heart of Freemasonry.

Representative of the RWPGM W Bro Paul Harper

and Technical WM W Bro Arash Vesali (Photo from W Bro Wildman)

 

In true Masonic tradition, the evening continued with a lively and well-attended Festive Board. The dining room was filled with conversation, laughter, and the easy companionship that follows a ceremony well performed.

It was a fitting end to a memorable evening, with Brethren enjoying good food, good company, and the warmth of shared fellowship. The night concluded in the traditional manner with the parting song, “Happy to Meet Again”, echoing through the hall in a spirit of joy and unity, and reminding everyone present that there will be many more good evenings to come.

Bro Michael Carr, W Bro Paul Harper, W Bro Arash Vesali

 

 

 

 

 

By Ed Thompson, Senior Deacon, Principal Sojourner   12th May 2026

 

Tuesday 12th May was the Humber Lodge No.57 Founders Night and the latest of Technical Lodge No.5666's excursions.

When I picked up W Bro Ian Parkinson, it occured to me that I had a Masonic founder sat next to me as we drove towards a blustery Hull Marina. 'Parki' was a founding member of Phoenix Lodge No.9963 in 2018 and served as Worshipful Master from 2020-2022. Phoenix Lodge has had its struggles but - symbolically rising like its namesake - it is now thriving and under the astute Mastership of Technical Lodge's very own W Bro Paul Hillary. Humber Lodge is much older than Phoenix Lodge. Although it was officially designated No.57 in 1863, Humber can trace its original warrant back to May 19th 1756, making the Lodge effectively 270 years old. 

Technical Lodge were busy visiting again and we managed to bring along decent numbers. W Bro Parkinson and I were warmly received at the Masonic Hall at Dagger Lane - as is the gentle, warm culture of Humber Lodge.

Soon enough, shrieking groans of pain could be heard as 'Parki' made his way through the Brethren already stationed in the bar area. His signature 'crusher' handshake has largely been contained to the South of the Province. But, as 'Parki' will be soon invested as a Provincial Chapter Steward in August, his brawn will no doubt be spread to the Cental and Northern regions of Province. They have not been warned.

At the bar, we rendezoused with more Technical brethren namely W Bro Anthony James, Bro John Hemingway - recently made a Master Mason - and our very own Worshipful Master W Bro Arash 'Ash' Vesali - it was his birthday! 

With five members, we looked in good stead to complete a difficult Provincial-wide challenge - claiming the Travelling Gavel. This is wonderful incentive, created by Humber Lodge, to encourage visiting around the Province of Yorkshire North & East Ridings. Given the considerable geographical acreage of YNER, from Hull and Howden to Middlesbrough and Redcar, the Gavel cannot be easily hunted and successfully obtained. The Gavel had only returned home at Humber Lodge for six days. They had wrestled it from Kingston Lodge, outnumbering visiting rivals from Holderness Lodge on 6th May. The last time Technical Lodge claimed the gavel was December 2021.

The Royal Arch Chapter has it's own visiting incentive in our Province - The Travelling Sceptres. There are three; Northern, Central and Southern. Watch this space.

Founders Night celebrations were incoming but first Humber Lodge had important labour - a Ceremony of Passing Bro Julian Edge to the Degree of a Fellow Craft. Humber Lodge has very impressive ritualists and overall the ceremony was very heartfelt and wholesome. Technical Master W Bro Vesali gave greetings on behalf of Technical before demanding submission of the Gavel. We then headed downstairs from labour to refreshment.

 

L to R: Bro John Hemingway, W Bro Anthony James, WM W Bro Arash Vesali, W Bro Ian Parkinson, Bro Ed Thompson

 

At the Senior Warden's end of the festive board, we were joined by many others vistors. Most interesting amongst them were brethren from Pelham Pillar Lodge from Lincolnshire, who trace their history directly from Humber Lodge. We enjoyed great company.

After some great food and conversation, W Bro Eddie Wildman delivered a fascinating Founders Night presentation to the Brethren - this was highly illuminating and enjoyable.

'Ash' - the birthday boy - was left smiling after he won some wine in the raffle. He was even more so taken aback when it was announced by WM Malcom Forbes that we would all serenade his special day, assisted by the brilliant musical accompaniment of W Bro Eddie. 'Happy Birthday' thundered. There was also a formal presentation of The Travelling Gavel to W Bro Vesali and all visiting Technical brethren.

 

Technical WM Arash Vesali receiving the Travelling Gavel from Humber WM W Bro Malcom Forbes

 

The 'Visitor's Song' was powerfully sang - led by W Bro Richard Smedley - whilst all Humber Brethren shook hands with us. I've visited Humber Lodge & Chapter a few times now, yet the level of Brotherly Love you experience as a visitor never fades away.

L to R: Bro John Hemingway, W Bro Eddie Wildman, W Bro Anthony James, W Bro Malcolm Forbes, W Bro Arash Vesali, Bro Ed Thompson, W Bro Ian Parkinson

 

When festivities concluded, we said our heartfelt goodbyes and made our way out before 10 o' clock. Myself and Ash stepped out onto the beautiful aesthetic of Prince Street. The torturous earlier wind had settled and a sense of calm was in the air...

Suddenly and sharply, calmness evaporated into shock and despair.

Parki, whilst bullishly leaving the building directly after us, yanked the door back too hard and a concerning 'CRACK!!!' emanated and echoed all around us.

Had Parki destroyed the Dagger Lane door... on Founders Night?

I immediately stepped back in and we observed the aftermath. The overhead door closing mechanism did not look good. We fiddled with it. We reconnected a part that fell off. Eventually, the three of us were fairly confident that it was mended.

Whilst the door was visibly repaired, the state of the Metacarpal bones in the hands of the Humber Brethren is unknown. Thankfully, the Travelling Gavel went home with Ash - all in one piece...

 

 

 

By Ed Thompson, Senior Deacon, Principal Sojourner   9th May 2026

 

When I picked up W Bro Paul Hillary (the to-be Provincial Grand Treasurer of the Province of Yorkshire North & East Ridings) the day was early and bright. I may have arrived outside of Paul's house at about five past eight in the morning. This was only five minutes after I picked up W Bro Steve Berry who was in good sprits and made for good company in the front of the car. Their close proximity of repsective dwellings made the journey to our desired destination very easy and efficiently done. Our destination, of course, was the Investiture of our new Provincial Grandmaster & Grand Superintendent Mark Iveson (and some of his key team members too) of the Province of Yorkshire North & East Ridings.

The weather was fair on the way to York and W Bro Berry, W Bro Hillary and I arrived at York Racecourse for just gone 9 o' clock. Walking towards the entrance, Paul and I discussed our love (or perhaps chemical reliance) of coffee. A few moments later we had taken the lift up to the top of the Knavesmire Stand, took off to the bar and refreshed ourselves with a cup of the aforementioned beverage and pottered around before this monumental event was due to start.

 

After getting suited, booted and jeweled up, we made our way downstairs to the first grand occasion - the Investiture of W Bro Mark Iveson as Grand Superintendent (this first occasion was in the Royal Arch Chapter). I will not dilate on much of any ceremony however it was particularly incredible to see something in both the Chapter and Craft Investitures - the active UGLE officers and their level of ritualistic profeciency, most notably the DCs and the Assistant Grandmaster & Past 3rd Grand Principal RW Steven Varley who initally took control of proceedings and later to invest W Bro Iveson.

 

I mentioned earlier that some of W Bro Iveson's key members were invested too, none more significant to the unit of Technical 5666 than W Bro Dr. Hiten Thaker. He was invested by the new Grand Superintendent as Deputy Grand Superintendent. Myself, W Bros Paul and Steve and other Technical Chapter companions in attendance were proud to be there to see him invested with this high honour in the flesh. For a moment I wanted to shout and cheer but I quickly reminded myself of the formality of this occasion. Hull City were playing in the Championship Play Offs the night before and I perhaps had some latent adrenaline in my system. I held my tongue.

After this ceremony concluded, it was time for lunch. The travelling Technical crew were temporarily seperated. Whilst myself and W Bro Steve were seated with some fine and distinguished brethren from Humber Lodge 57 - assumingly due to us all belonging to lodges South in Province. W Bro Paul however was placed on a different table in the seating plan. "You must've been on one of the important tables", I later remarked. "I don't know why I was but I'm definitely not important. I'm just happy because somebody had wine pre-ordered on ours", Paul replied. I was slightly envious of that but I remembered I was driving and gratefully drank my ol' reliable Guinness 0.0.

The food was very tasty, the company was joyful and before we knew it we all were downstairs again, ready for the next and final occasion - W Bro Iveson's investiture as Provincial Grandmaster.

The ceremony was simlilar in many ways to the Royal Arch Chaper one that preceded it. Now in the Craft, the newly invested PGM RW Bro Mark Iveson invested his Assistant Provincial Grandmasters, Wardens and other key officers in the Provincial Grand Lodge. This ceremony in the Craft was slightly more comprehensive. The Chapter one was intruiging but mainly focused on the investiture of the Three Prinicipals.

RW Bro Mark Iveson

Newly installed Provincial Grandmaster

& Grand Superintendent of Yorkshire North & East Ridings

 

Overall, all formal business in both ceremonies were filled with grandeur and unbelievably precise ritual - professionalism reigned.

When all was done, we headed back to my car with a slight hint of drizzle. Driving home, W Bro Paul was particularly jolly (thank you to whomever ordered that wine) and we three had enjoyable conversation for the full hour of journey. Unfortunately as I dropped them off, it was now heavily precipating but the warmth and comfort of a home was incoming. This was only a fleeting escape for Paul, however, as he had dog walk duties to fulfil. My late great-grandmother was Danish and I quite like the Scandanavian attitude of 'There is no bad weather, only bad choice of clothing' but I nervously hesitated in reciting that to him as I dropped him off.

We had a great time together. It is always fun to get out and visit, whether that is a Lodge, a Chapter, an Installation, a White Table Event or indeed a large Provincial event as we did today. It was made extra special for Technical 5666 too, by way of W Bro Hiten's investiture as DGS (Deputy Grand Superintendent).

Luckily, it doesn't stop here for Technical Lodge. On 1st August, many more Brethren and Companions are receiving honours and promotions in Freemasonry at the next Provincial Event - we will be supporting them in numbers, with smiles on our faces.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Technical Chapter 5666 - 5th May 2026 - By Anthony James - ProvGstB

At 6:30pm, the Companions were called to stand and receive the Three Principals, who proceeded to open the Chapter in the traditional manner.

The first order of business was for the MEZ to invest those officers who had been unable to attend the Installation meeting. Companion Allan McKay was invested as Scribe N, and Companion Nandakumar Pisharam was invested as Assistant Scribe E. Following this, the minutes of the last regular Chapter meeting were presented and confirmed by the Companions as an accurate record.

The evening then moved to its main item of business, an excellent presentation on the Banners of the Holy Royal Arch Chapters of Jerusalem. With Companions a little scarce on the ground this evening, it seems only fitting that the focus should be placed on the presentation delivered by E. Comp. Ken Eyre, from the Provincial Learning and Development Team, and what we learned from it.

E. Comp. Eyre gave a clear, engaging, and informative talk, helping to bring greater understanding to the symbolism and meaning behind the Royal Arch banners. His presentation added real interest to the evening and served as a valuable reminder that every emblem within the Chapter carries purpose, history, and significance.

The Twelve Tribes of Israel and Their Symbolism Within the Holy Royal Arch

Within the Holy Royal Arch in English Freemasonry, few symbols carry as much meaning as the Twelve Tribes of Israel and the banners displayed around the Chapter. These are far more than decorative pieces. They are deeply connected to the ceremonial and spiritual foundations of Royal Arch Masonry and draw heavily from the imagery and teachings of the Old Testament.

Under the English Constitution and the authority of the Supreme Grand Chapter, the Twelve Tribes form part of the wider symbolism of restoration, rebuilding, and the rediscovery of sacred truth.

 

The Historical Background

The Holy Royal Arch is based upon the return of the Jewish people from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. This rebuilding effort was led by:

· Zerubbabel

· Haggai

· Joshua, also known as Jeshua the High Priest

 

The story is drawn mainly from the Biblical Books of Ezra, Haggai, and Nehemiah. It is a narrative of hope after destruction, rebuilding after loss, and the search for truth amongst the ruins of the past.

For Royal Arch Companions, the rebuilding of the Temple carries both a literal and symbolic meaning. It represents not only the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem, but also the rebuilding of the individual through wisdom, understanding, and spiritual growth.

 

The Twelve Tribes and Their Symbols

Each of the Twelve Tribes is associated with a traditional emblem representing particular virtues and characteristics.

· Reuben is represented by a man or human face, symbolising vision and humanity.

· Simeon is represented by a sword or city gate, symbolising justice and vigilance.

· Levi is represented by the breastplate or priesthood, symbolising sacred service.

· Judah is represented by the lion, symbolising kingship and strength.

· Zebulun is represented by a ship, symbolising commerce and journey.

· Issachar is represented by an ass beneath a burden, symbolising labour and patience.

· Dan is represented by the eagle, symbolising judgement and spiritual elevation.

· Gad is represented by a tent or troop, symbolising readiness and defence.

· Asher is represented by a tree or overflowing cup, symbolising prosperity.

· Naphtali is represented by a hind or deer, symbolising freedom and swiftness.

· Joseph or Ephraim is represented by the ox, symbolising endurance and fruitfulness.

· Benjamin is represented by the wolf, symbolising courage and protection.

 

These banners symbolically surround the Chapter in the same way the tribes surrounded the Tabernacle during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness.

 

Within the Holy Royal Arch, the Twelve Tribes symbolise:

· Unity

· Restoration

· Divine order

· Spiritual completeness

· Humanity gathered around sacred truth

 

The arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle represented harmony and structure centred upon the presence of God. Within Royal Arch Masonry, this serves as a reminder that truth and spiritual understanding should remain at the centre of life.

 

The Four Principal Banners

One of the most recognisable features within many Royal Arch Chapters is the display of the four principal banners above or near the chair of the First Principal.

These represent the four leading tribal standards of the Camp of Israel described in Numbers Chapter 2.

· Judah, represented by the Lion in the East, symbolises kingship, leadership, and strength.

· Reuben, represented by the Man in the South, symbolises humanity, dignity, and vision.

· Ephraim, represented by the Ox in the West, symbolises labour, endurance, and service.

· Dan, represented by the Eagle in the North, symbolises judgement, spiritual awareness, and vigilance.

Together, these four banners represented the ordered encampment of the nation around the sacred centre of the Tabernacle. E. Comp. Ken Eyre informed us of an easy way to remember the order they should appear from left to right, the number of letters in the images of the banners, 2, 3, 4, 5. I will let you work out which banner is which.

 

A Symbolic Journey of Restoration

The Holy Royal Arch is ultimately a journey of rediscovery. The symbolism of the Twelve Tribes and the Four Principal Banners reinforce the key themes found throughout Royal Arch Masonry:

· Rebuilding after loss

· Restoring sacred truths

· Bringing order from chaos

· Uniting humanity around divine principles

 

Every banner and emblem within the Chapter carries meaning. Together they remind Companions that wisdom, balance, and spiritual understanding are achieved through harmony, discipline, and the continual search for light.

This was a most informative presentation.

The next item of business was the presentation of Chapter Certificates to Companion Nandakumar Pisharam and Companion Ken Wright. Unfortunately, Companion Ken Wright was unable to attend on this occasion, so his presentation will no doubt take place at a future meeting.

The MEZ, M.E. Comp. Rob Atkinson, then had the pleasure of presenting Companion Nandakumar Pisharam with his Chapter Certificate. This was a fitting and important moment in the evening, marking another step in Companion Nandakumar’s Royal Arch journey.

Various reports were then received, and the remaining business of the Chapter was duly transacted. It was also pleasing to hear the notification that Brother John Hemingway will be joining the Chapter at our July meeting, something which was warmly received by the Companions present.

With the formal business concluded, the Chapter was closed in due and ancient form, after which everyone retired to the Festive Board.

Once again, Luke and his team excelled themselves and delivered a highly enjoyable meal, which was appreciated by all. The evening was made even better by the bonus of a nice early finish, rounding off a pleasant, well-run, and very enjoyable Chapter meeting.