On 18th December 1965, W. Bro. David George Johnson began his Masonic journey when he was initiated into Cathedral Lodge No. 2741 at Freemasons’ Hall, London. As a Lewis, he proudly continued the tradition established by his father.

His dedication soon shone through: he served as Master of the Lodge in 1977 and again in 1992. In 1990 he became a Founder Member of Square Mile Lodge No. 9352 in the City of London, later becoming its third Worshipful Master. His outstanding service in the capital was recognised with the award of London Grand Rank.

After retiring from his distinguished career as a Senior Police Officer, David moved to Kent and joined Prince Edwin Lodge No. 125, where he was installed as Master in 2012.

In 2019, having moved to Spain, he joined Jávea Lodge No. 40, where he remains an active and valued Brother, currently serving as Junior Warden. His commitment was further marked in 2024 when he was honoured in the Province of Valencia as Past Assistant Grand Standard Bearer.

On Wednesday, 3rd December, Jávea Lodge No. 40 gathered for a convivial Chinese meal following the GP Committee meeting. Among those present was W. Bro. David George Johnson, unaware that a special surprise had been arranged in his honour.

On behalf of the Lodge, the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Alex Wilkins, together with David’s proposer into Jávea Lodge No. 40, W. Bro. Matt James, presented W. Bro. Johnson with a commemorative Lodge certificate marking sixty years in Masonry, together with a fine bottle of brandy, that he might raise a glass in remembrance of the many Brethren he has known throughout his Masonic journey.

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W. Bro. Wilkins then added a final comment: “It is indeed rare, in these times, to witness the celebration of a Diamond Jubilee. W. Bro. David’s service to Masonry has been exemplary, and it continues to this day, as he remains a hugely popular and active member of the Lodge and participates fully in all of our meetings and ceremonies.”

L-R W. Bro. Kevin Hamilton, Bro. Peter Waring, W. Bro. Alex Wilkins, Bro. Charles Toomey, W. Bro. David Johnson

On Wednesday, 26th November, the Brethren of Jávea Lodge No. 40 assembled for a most industrious and memorable evening, marked by significant labours and joyous celebrations.

The first highlight of the evening was the Raising of Brother Charles Toomey to the sublime Degree of a Master Mason. The ceremony was conducted with solemnity and dignity, and the newly‑raised Brother was warmly congratulated by all present upon attaining this exalted stage in his Masonic journey.

Following this, the Lodge was pleased to initiate Brother Peter Waring into the Craft. The Ceremony of Initiation was carried out with due decorum, and the newly‑admitted Brother was welcomed with fraternal affection, beginning his path of light and knowledge within the Lodge.

Not content with two notable achievements, the Brethren then proceeded to elect Worshipful Brother Kevin Hamilton as Master Elect. He will, in due course, be installed into the Chair of King Solomon at the Lodge’s Installation Meeting in February next year, a moment to which the Brethren look forward with great anticipation.

Members of the Jávea No 40 Lodge

The meeting concluded with a most distinguished announcement. To enthusiastic applause, the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Alex Wilkins, was delighted to inform the Lodge that on 18th December 2025, Worshipful Brother David Johnson will celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of his Initiation into Freemasonry. W. Bro. Johnson was initiated in London, on 18th December 1965 and joined Jávea 40 on 5th April 2019, and his forthcoming diamond jubilee in the Craft stands as a shining testament to his long and faithful service to the fraternity.

The Brethren of Jávea Lodge No. 40 expressed their heartfelt congratulations to W. Bro. Johnson, whose dedication and example continue to inspire all who work with him.

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Finally, the brethren retired to enjoy a convivial and relaxed Festive Board where traditional toasts, good food and good wine were enjoyed by all.

Report by Bro. Alex Lopez, Senior Warden, Fidelísima-Amor Lodge No 199

ELDA (Alicante) – On Saturday 22 November 2025, a new Masonic lodge was consecrated in the city of Elda. Named Fidelísima–Amor No. 199 and belonging to the Grand Lodge of Spain, it will operate under the authority of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia.

The Lodge’s very title serves as a declaration of intent. It signals continuity with earlier Masonic traditions in the town and represents far more than the founding of a new institution. It marks the meaningful recovery of the sentimental and historical heritage that links Elda with Freemasonry.

In just a few weeks it will be 2026, marking 140 years since the first Lodge was established in Elda. The founders of Fidelísima–Amor have worked to honour that anniversary.

Pablo Guarinos Guarinos, first Worshipful Master of Fidelísima Lodge No. 335.

Elda’s Masonic history began on 4 April 1886 with the creation of Fidelísima Lodge No. 335, which operated from 1886 to 1904.

 José Tomás Sánchez, Worshipful Master of Amor Lodge No. 9 (photograph from the 1940s).

In the second quarter of the twentieth century, Amor Lodge No. 9 was founded in the city, remaining active from 1927 until 1939, the year it was closed.

Its story reflects the broader experience of twentieth century Spain: committed to Enlightenment ideals and universal fraternity, it was brought to an abrupt and violent end by repression which dismantled its structures, persecuted its members and attempted to erase its memories.

Digital recreation of a Masonic temple of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in Spain in the first half of the twentieth century.

Beyond their ritual work, both lodges played a role in shaping ideas about the future and modernisation of Elda. They provided an alternative civic space where proposals for improving the city were explored.

The return of Freemasonry to Elda is a rare and notable event in the cultural and historical life of the province. Many national and international Masonic authorities are expected to attend, travelling to the city to show their support for the initiative and for the commitment of its members to recovering a part of Elda’s history linked to freedom of thought, solidarity and progress.

En Español

Elda rescata un capítulo de su historia: la masonería vuelve tras 86 años

ELDA (Alicante) – El sábado, 22 de noviembre de 2025, tuvo lugar en la ciudad de Elda la consagración de una nueva logia masónica que llevará por nombre Fidelísima–Amor N.º 199, perteneciente a la Gran Logia de España que trabajará bajo dependencia de la Gran Logia Provincial de Valencia. Su propio nombre es una declaración de intenciones que marca la continuidad con las tradiciones masónicas anteriores en la localidad y trasciende más allá de la mera fundación de una entidad: se establece como una profunda y necesaria recuperación del patrimonio sentimental e histórico que vincula a Elda con la masonería.

140 años de historia recuperada

En unas pocas semanas, en 2026, se cumplirán 140 años desde que la primera logia se asentó en Elda. Los promotores de Fidelísima-Amor han trabajado para honrar esta efeméride. La historia eldense de la masonería comenzó el 4 de abril de 1886, con la constitución de la Logia Fidelísima N.º 335 que funcionó de 1886 a 1904, en el segundo cuarto del siglo XX, se fundó en la ciudad la Logia Amor N.º 9 que se mantuvo operativa de 1927 a 1939 año en que fue clausurada; su historia es un fiel reflejo de las luces y sombras del siglo XX español: comprometida con la ilustración y la fraternidad universal, fue cruelmente extinguida por la represión, que no sólo destruyó sus estructuras, persiguió a sus miembros, e intentó erradicar su memoria.

La masonería eldense un espacio de sociabilidad

Además de ser organizaciones ritualistas, ambas logias estaban preocupadas por el futuro y la modernización de Elda actuando como un espacio de sociabilidad alternativa, donde se propusieron diferentes proyectos de transformación para la ciudad.

Este evento es un suceso poco común que destaca en la agenda cultural e histórica de la provincia. Se espera la presencia de numerosas autoridades masónicas de ámbito nacional e internacional, que acudirán a Elda para dar su apoyo a esta iniciativa y al compromiso de sus miembros con la recuperación de una parte de la historia de la ciudad ligada a la libertad de pensamiento, la solidaridad y el progreso.

On Saturday 8th November, in the presence of the R.W. Provincial Grandmaster and other members of the Provincial Executive team, 108 brethren assembled at the Bonalba Hotel in Mutxamel for the Provincial Lodge of Instruction 2025. Junior brethren from across the Province of Valencia united to deliver the First-Degree Ceremony in full—a collaborative effort involving sixteen brothers from eight Lodges.

Preparation and Purpose

The Provincial Lodge of Instruction exists to uphold the highest standards of ritual while nurturing the next generation of Masonic leaders. By offering a safe and supportive environment, it enables brethren to practise, grow in confidence, and deepen their understanding of ceremonial work. This year’s gathering exemplified that mission with clarity and purpose.

Newer Brethren in Senior Roles

Our junior brethren assumed the roles of Worshipful Master, Wardens, Deacons, and other key offices. Each brother carried out his duties with care and commitment, demonstrating a solid grasp of ritual. The teamwork displayed throughout the day was a testament to their preparation and shared dedication to the Craft.

Following the Ceremony, the Lodge of Instruction team hosted a splendid Festive Board, where traditional Toasts were honoured and a raffle raised 1,195€ to support the 2026 Festival.

The Provincial Lodge of Instruction Team

Click here to reveal the names of the PLOI 2025 team

• Worshipful Master – Bro. Rafe Parker, Puerto de Xàbia 58
• Immediate Past Master – Bro. Manuel Guillén, Fidelisima-Amor 199
• Senior Warden – Bro. Stephen Young, Puerto de Xàbia 58
• Junior Warden – Bro. Max Heinrich, Jávea 40
• Chaplain – Bro. Colin Kenward, Oliva La Safor 112
• Treasurer – W. Bro. Ian Brown, Arenal Deportiva 65
• Secretary (English) – Bro. Hector Peris, Puerto de Xàbia 58
• Secretary (Spanish) – Bro. Haakon Ellingsen, Santa Faz 48
• Director of Ceremonies – W. Bro. John Beavis, Puerto de Xàbia 58
• Senior Deacon – Bro. Kevin Bird, Dama de Elche 163
• Junior Deacon – Bro. Dave Brettle, Puerto de Xàbia 58
• Assistant Director of Ceremonies – Bro. Luke Holmes, Armonia de Ifach 46
• Inner Guard – Bro. Paul Lewis, Jávea 40
• Tyler – W. Bro. Barry Rowe, Jávea 40
• Candidate – Bro. Stuart Wall, Puerto de Xàbia 58
• Organist – W. Bro. Ken Cornforth, Oliva La Safor 112
• North East Corner – Bro. Luke Holmes, Armonia de Ifach 46
• First Degree Working Tools – Bro. Kevin Bird, Dama de Elche 163
• Charge after Initiation – Bro. Hector Peris, Puerto de Xàbia 58
• Mode of Preparation – Bro. István Szekely, Armonia de Ifach 46

The R.W. Provincial Grandmaster and the PLOI Worshipful Master Bro. Rafe Parker

The R.W. Provincial Grand Master, Rodney Bignell, added:

“I wish to congratulate Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 and everyone involved in putting on today’s Ceremony. This event is a hugely important glimpse into our future. By giving our junior brethren the chance to stretch themselves, we ensure that the traditions of Freemasonry remain in safe and capable hands.”

W. Bro. Nick Coates, Worshipful Master of Puerto de Xàbia 58, expressed heartfelt thanks:

“On behalf of the Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 and particularly from myself and our Immediate Past Master W. Bro. John Young who oversaw most of the team’s preparations for today, I want to extend our sincere gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this important event; W. Bros. Peter Farrell, Peter de Graaf, John Beavis, and Kevin Hamilton, who acted as guides and coaches to the team; W. Bros. Matt James, Malcolm March, and Richard Davis for their work in organising the venue and managing bookings; and above all, to the junior brethren who gave so freely of their time and energy to deliver a truly memorable ceremony.”

The Provincial Lodge of Instruction 2026

As the 2025 Provincial Lodge of Instruction came to a close, the R.W. Grandmaster had one final duty to perform. To great acclaim, R.W. Bro. Rodney Bignell announced that the Provincial Lodge of Instruction 2026 will be hosted by San Juan de España Lodge No 28.

We send our congratulations to everyone at San Juan de España Lodge No 28 and we look forward to seeing everyone assemble next year for the 2026 Provincial Lodge of Instruction.

An event such as the Provincial Lodge of Instruction depends on planning, diligence and the coordinated effort of a number of teams.

Rehearsals

Rehearsals began as monthly sessions at the Costa Nova Masonic Centre in Jávea and increased to weekly from September. These sessions allowed individual roles to be refined and the team to develop the timing and flow that are essential to an orderly ceremony.

The final rehearsal, held in the event room at the Bonalba Hotel on 7 November, was especially important. Practising in the larger space ensured that everyone could project, move and position themselves confidently in the very room we would use on the day.

Setting up and the day before

Work begins the day before the Ceremony. W. Bro. Peter de Graaf, Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works, hired a large van and collected furniture, carpets, regalia, Masonic books, collars and banners from Costa Nova and Quesada, transporting everything to the Bonalba Hotel.

Members of the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge, lead by W. Bro. Peter Farrell, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, assisted by members of the Ceremony team unloaded and set out the room.

Final thought

A successful Provincial LOI is the visible part of a much larger endeavour. The ceremony itself is brief compared with the weeks of preparation behind it, yet every hour spent in planning and rehearsal is repaid tenfold in the calm, measured dignity of the day.

Dear Brethren

The Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Rodney Charles Bignell and his Lady Jeanette are holding their Ladies’ Night on Saturday 6th December 2025 at the Gran Hotel Bali in Benidorm.

The festivities commence on Friday 5th December on the Hotel´s Crystal Terrace at 7.00pm with a casual dress code. Those attending will be welcomed by the Provincial Grand Master and his Lady to enjoy drinks and canapés accompanied by live music.

The main event is on Saturday 6th December with the dress code being ‘Black Tie’, The evening will start with a Cava Reception on the Terrace of the Crystal Ballroom at 6.30pm and dinner will be served in the Crystal Ballroom at 7.30pm. Dancing after dinner will be to live Music with Carriages at 1.00am.

However, if you wish to continue the celebration to the early hours, then you can do so at the Hotel’s Cotton Club until 3am.

The cost of the evening will be 40€ p.p. and must be paid for, in advance. Full details are provided on the Booking Form which can be accessed by clicking on the button below:

Please enter all your party’s names on the Booking Form, with their menu choices.

Rooms are available at the Hotel at reasonable rates, with full information available on the Booking Form.

We are all truly looking forward to spending this unforgettable evening with you all. Let us celebrate friendship, tradition, and the holiday spirit in style.