Warwickshire’s Masonic Centres depend upon dedicated volunteers who work quietly behind the scenes. Peter Clarke APGM recognises these unsung heroes and considers how our Centres can remain strong, welcoming and connected to their communities.
In recent times, we have become increasingly comfortable in recognising the service our members provide to their local communities. This was reflected in the Community Champions award at this year’s Provincial Grand Lodge meeting, which honoured Brethren for their significant work with charities and local projects.
The principles of Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service are cornerstones of being a Freemason, and to quote part of our mission statement, “Freemasonry today is a modern organisation focused on friendship, personal growth, and helping the community.”
Service also takes place within our own organisation, often quietly and voluntarily, through the work of Brethren who help keep everything running smoothly. One important example is the management of Masonic Centres across Warwickshire.
Right now, Lodges in Warwickshire use 21 places to meet, 14 of which are private Masonic Centres, mostly run as Private Limited companies with a Management Committee.
Each of these has a Board of Directors, a Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary, and members from different groups that use the space.
The term “Unsung Heroes” is well deserved by the Brethren who serve on these management committees. As volunteers, they make important decisions, ensure the buildings are ready for use, and help each Centre meet the needs of modern Freemasonry.
The Province has the utmost respect for all those who help run these Centres, which as I stated earlier operate as private entities. Those who give their time and experience reflect the true meaning of Service and make possible the enjoyment we take from our meetings, our progress through the degrees, and our wider Masonic events.
These Centres are also fundamental to our engagement with local communities, both now and in the future, helping to secure the longevity of a visible Masonic presence across Warwickshire.
This point was well expressed by W Bro Graham Ballinger, Chairman of the Masonic Centre Heads Group, who stated:
“As Directors and custodians of our Masonic Centres we have a responsibility to manage and secure their future as with any business. In the future, we may not be able to rely exclusively on Freemasonry, so it is increasingly important we engage with the local community and offer our facilities to a wider audience”
Service matters both within our organisation and beyond it. I therefore encourage any Brother with skills that could assist a local management committee to make those skills known and, where appropriate, to offer support to the work of that committee, including service on the management board when the opportunity arises.
As the new Masonic season approaches, this is an opportunity to recognise all those who already serve and give of their time and experience to ensure our Centres remain strong, welcoming, and ready to support Freemasonry and the wider community for years to come.