The Grand Master Presides Over a Raising Ceremony at Lodge Woollahra No. 341

21 November 24

The Eastern Suburbs District 37 of Freemasons NSW & ACT recently convened for a remarkable occasion: the Third Degree raising ceremony of Fellowcraft Freemason Bro James Stewart.

Hosted by Lodge Woollahra No. 341, this event exemplified the spirit of humility, integrity, and harmony. The presence of the Grand Master, accompanied by the Senior and Junior Grand Wardens, Senior and Junior Grand Deacons, and the Junior and Senior Deacons of the Demonstration Team, elevated the evening to one of profound significance.

This gathering embodied the unity and interdependence that characterise Freemasonry in District 37, which encompasses several lodges from Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. It also fulfilled Clause 13.12 of the Constitution, permitting the Grand Master to preside over a lodge meeting—a procedural privilege that reflects the fraternity's dedication to shared leadership and collaboration.

The Grand Master, supported by the Senior and Junior Grand Wardens, guided the ceremony with precision. The Senior and Junior Grand Deacons performed their roles with unwavering attention, ensuring every detail unfolded seamlessly and brought their expertise to the fore, embodying Freemasonry’s emphasis on teamwork and collective purpose. Together, these officers exemplified the harmony that arises from mutual respect and cooperation.

The Grand Master’s leadership was central to the evening’s success. Balancing ceremonial formality with mentorship, he demonstrated the principle of leading by example. His involvement reinforced the responsibilities of leadership within the Craft. The contributions of the Grand Wardens and Deacons, seamlessly aligned with the Grand Master’s guidance, reflected a shared dedication to excellence and tradition.

One of the ceremony’s defining features was the collaboration among lodges within District 37. Brethren from various lodges delivered the charges of the Third Degree, showcasing their expertise and commitment to the ritual:

Lodge John Williams No. 148: Scott Bilbey

Lodge Kensington No. 270: Vic Lunney

Lodge Double Bay No. 331: Manny Ico

Lodge Mark Owen No. 828: Ian Stein

Lodge Woollahra No. 341: Benjamin Joseph Tubridy

Lodge Kingsford Smith No. 1028: Duncan McLeod

Lodge Eastern Suburbs No. 1050: Robert Patton

These brethren delivered their charges with reverence and precision, underscoring the unity and shared purpose that makes Freemasonry unique. Their contributions were a testament to the district’s collective strength and the collaborative ethos of the Craft.

For Bro Stewart, the evening was transformative. His raising to the degree of Master Mason marked a significant milestone, symbolising both personal growth and a deeper connection to the fraternity. Guided by the Grand Master and supported by the Ceremonial Team, Bro Stewart’s journey through the Third Degree ritual illuminated Freemasonry’s enduring commitment to mentorship and enlightenment.

The Master Mason degree represents the culmination of Freemasonry’s foundational teachings, exploring themes of knowledge, morality, and the immortality of the soul. Under the Grand Master’s stewardship, these profound lessons were brought to life, resonating deeply with all in attendance. The event emphasised how humility in leadership, integrity in action, and harmony in collaboration are not just ideals but lived principles within the fraternity.

The evening’s success was a vivid reminder of Freemasonry’s core values. From the Grand Master’s steady leadership to the collaborative efforts of District 37’s lodges, every aspect of the event highlighted the fraternity’s commitment to shared purpose and mutual respect. This sense of unity strengthens Freemasonry as a living tradition, inspiring its members to pursue enlightenment and personal growth.

The raising of Bro Stewart at Lodge Woollahra No. 341 was not merely a ceremonial act—it was a celebration of Freemasonry’s timeless principles and the strength of its community. Through the leadership of the Grand Master and the contributions of the Grand Wardens, Deacons, and Demonstration Team members, the event exemplified how tradition and collaboration create meaningful and lasting experiences.

As attendees departed, the bonds of fraternity were strengthened, and the legacy of the evening was firmly established. Events like this ensure that Freemasonry continues to thrive, offering its members a journey enriched by humility, guided by integrity, and sustained by harmony.

📸Bro Renan Legaspi