Pictured above L-R, Eileen Brown, Ian Brown, Worshipful Master Ricardo Estornell Canet and Augustine Estornell Canet

On Sunday 28th September, Brethren, family, and friends of Arenal Deportiva Lodge No. 65 gathered to enjoy a splendid Garden Party beneath the warm autumn sun. This cherished annual tradition was especially welcome, having been regrettably cancelled the previous year due to inclement weather.

Our gracious hosts, W.Bro. Ian Brown and his wife Eileen, welcomed guests to their beautiful villa, where a generous buffet was served amidst convivial company. The afternoon was enhanced by the mellow musical stylings of Dave Manhattan, whose performance provided a delightful backdrop to the occasion.

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A well-supported raffle added to the festivities, with proceeds benefiting the Lodge and its nominated charities. The event was a resounding success, reflecting the spirit of fellowship and generosity that defines our Masonic community.

Whilst Freemasonry is often privileged to meet within architecturally splendid and historic buildings, not all Brethren—particularly those of other traditions—adhere to this practice on every occasion.

On Wednesday, 13th September, Leukopolis Lodge No. 85 held a Field Lodge at the home of Bro. Rob de Wolf in Abanilla, Province of Murcia. This is a long‑standing custom among our French, Dutch and German Brethren, who regularly embrace the spirit and simplicity of outdoor ritual.

The origins of the Field Lodge can be traced to the military lodges of itinerant Freemasons, particularly among our French Brethren during the 18th‑century wars with Germany. These were travelling lodges, in contrast to those meeting in permanent temples.

In the Netherlands, Field Lodges are still occasionally held. They take place in natural or remote surroundings, with only the most essential resources. Apart from a small Bible, compass, and square, all other materials are sourced from nature. Thus, sticks replace swords, and formal attire gives way to ordinary leisure clothing—long trousers, shirt, and closed shoes. Shorts, T‑shirts, sandals, or flip‑flops are not permitted.

Nevertheless, the Brethren wear their aprons and white gloves, preserving the dignity of the Craft. Only the Worshipful Master and the two Wardens wear their collars; other officers do not. The Tracing Board, traditionally placed in the centre of the Temple, is drawn in the sand so that it may be erased immediately should an uninvited person approach.

For this occasion, the makeshift Temple was constructed from breeze blocks and wooden tables, with garden torches serving in place of traditional candles. Although Masonic suits were not required, the Brethren were smartly attired in regalia and white gloves, maintaining the decorum befitting the ceremony.

Leukopolis Lodge No. 85 was greatly honoured by the presence of the R.W. Provincial Grand Master, Rodney Charles Bignell, accompanied by his escort of Provincial Grand Stewards and other distinguished members of the Provincial Executive.

Following the meeting, the Brethren enjoyed a delightful al fresco Festive Board in the tranquil surroundings of Bro. de Wolf’s garden—a fitting conclusion to a memorable and fraternal gathering.

In het Nederlands

Hoewel de Vrijmetselarij vaak het voorrecht heeft bijeen te komen in architectonisch prachtige en historische gebouwen, volgen niet alle Broeders – met name die uit andere tradities – deze praktijk bij elke gelegenheid.

Op woensdag 13 september hield Leukopolis Loge nr. 85 een Veldloge bij de woning van Broeder Rob de Wolf in Abanilla, provincie Murcia. Dit is een lange traditie onder onze Franse, Nederlandse en Duitse Broeders, die regelmatig de geest en eenvoud van rituelen in de open lucht omarmen.

De oorsprong van de Veldloge gaat terug tot de militaire loges van rondtrekkende Vrijmetselaren, met name onder onze Franse Broeders tijdens de achttiende-eeuwse oorlogen met Duitsland. Dit waren reizende loges, in tegenstelling tot die welke bijeenkwamen in permanente tempels.

In Nederland worden Veldloges nog af en toe gehouden. Zij vinden plaats in een natuurlijke of afgelegen omgeving, met slechts de meest essentiële benodigdheden. Afgezien van een kleine Bijbel, passer en winkelhaak, worden alle andere materialen uit de natuur gehaald. Zo vervangen stokken de zwaarden en maakt formele kleding plaats voor gewone vrijetijdskleding – lange broek, overhemd en gesloten schoenen. Korte broeken, T‑shirts, sandalen of slippers zijn niet toegestaan.

Toch dragen de Broeders hun schootsvel en witte handschoenen, waarmee de waardigheid van de Orde behouden blijft. Alleen de Achtbare Meester en de twee Opzieners dragen hun colliers; andere officieren niet. Het Tableau, dat traditioneel in het midden van de Tempel wordt geplaatst, wordt in het zand getekend zodat het onmiddellijk kan worden uitgewist als er een ongenode gast nadert.

Voor deze gelegenheid werd de geïmproviseerde Tempel opgebouwd uit betonblokken en houten tafels, terwijl fakkels in de tuin dienst deden in plaats van traditionele kaarsen. Hoewel er geen vrijmetselaarskostuums vereist waren, waren de Broeders keurig gekleed in regalia en witte handschoenen, waarmee het decorum dat de plechtigheid betaamt behouden bleef.

Leukopolis Loge nr. 85 was bijzonder vereerd met de aanwezigheid van de Zeer Achtbare Provinciaal Grootmeester, Rodney Charles Bignell, vergezeld door zijn escorte van Provinciale Grootopzieners en andere vooraanstaande leden van het Provinciaal Bestuur.

Na de bijeenkomst genoten de Broeders van een heerlijk feestmaal in de open lucht, te midden van de rustige omgeving van de tuin van Broeder De Wolf – een passend besluit van een gedenkwaardige en broederlijke samenkomst.

On Friday, 20th September, Santa Faz Lodge No. 48 hosted its annual Ladies’ Night at the elegant Seis Perlas Restaurant in El Campello. The occasion brought together Brethren, their Ladies, and guests for an evening of fine dining, lively entertainment, and warm fellowship.

The atmosphere was one of genuine conviviality as attendees enjoyed a superbly prepared meal, complemented by attentive service and a well‑chosen programme of entertainment. The combination of excellent food, engaging music, and the company of friends ensured that the evening was a resounding success.

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The Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Greg Hustler, and his good lady Lin were at the heart of the celebrations, warmly welcoming all present and ensuring that the event reflected the spirit of gratitude and appreciation that Ladies’ Night represents. Special thanks were also extended to W. Bro. Barry Hovell, and his good lady Gill, whose efforts contributed greatly to the smooth running and success of the evening.

This Ladies’ Night held particular significance as it marked the final official function of W. Bro. Hustler’s year in the Chair—a year widely regarded as both productive and harmonious. The event truly was the “icing on the cake” of his tenure, providing a fitting conclusion to a period of dedicated service to the Lodge.

In recognition of his year in office, Bro. Hamish McConnachie presented W. Bro. Hustler with the Lodge’s traditional annual cartoon—a light‑hearted yet cherished memento capturing the character and highlights of his term. The presentation was met with warm applause and good humour, encapsulating the fraternal spirit of the evening.

The night closed with a sense of shared pride and fellowship, as Brethren and guests reflected on a memorable occasion that celebrated not only the Ladies who support the Craft, but also the achievements of a Worshipful Master whose leadership has left a lasting mark on Santa Faz Lodge No. 48.

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On Friday, 19th September, the Brethren of Jávea Lodge No. 40, together with their guests, assembled at the elegant Salones Canor in Teulada to honour and celebrate the invaluable contribution of their Ladies to the life of the Lodge and the wider fraternity.

The evening commenced with a sparkling Cava reception in the venue’s beautiful gardens, where guests were entertained by the delightful vocals of Becky BB.

The formal proceedings began as the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Alex Wilkins, and his wife Jean were announced by the Master of Ceremonies, W. Bro. Peter Farrell, and warmly greeted with enthusiastic applause from all present.

A sumptuous four‑course banquet followed, accompanied by a plentiful supply of fine wine and beer. Throughout the meal, Becky BB continued to provide a charming musical backdrop, enhancing the convivial atmosphere.

Following dinner, the Loyal Toast to His Majesty King Felipe VI was proposed, after which Bro. Paul Lewis delivered a heartfelt and entertaining Toast to the Ladies. Jean Wilkins responded with a witty and engaging speech, which was warmly received by all.

The evening concluded in lively fashion as DJ Mick Dennison took to the stage, swiftly filling the dance floor and ensuring that Brethren and guests alike danced the night away in true fraternal spirit.

On Thursday 14th September, Euromason 55 installed W. Bro. Peter de Graaf as Worshipful Master.

Euromason 55, based in Jávea, is the Province’s sole German speaking Lodge and, although Dutch by nationality, Peter hails from the Dutch province of Limburg, close to the German border and is a fluent German speaker.

W. Bro. de Graaf extends an invitation to all Masons within the Province to visit Euromason 55, commenting he said “German Freemasonry has a distinct flavour and we would be delighted to welcome any member of the Province who wishes to experience what we do. Although we work in the German language, I would be happy to provide translations for speakers of other languages. I hope to see many of you over the course of my year in office”.

The Lodge was honoured to receive V.W. Bro. Frank Hogg Wallace, Provincial Grand Inspector as the Official Visitor from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia.

Pictured above (L-R) are: W. Bro. David Clarke, W. Bro. Ian Brown, W. Bro. Jens Gerl, W. Bro. Peter de Graaf, IPM W. Bro. Dieter Kuckai, V.W. Bro. Frank Wallace and W. Bro. Nigel Parker.

Auf Deutsch

Am Donnerstag, den 14. September, installierte Euromason 55 den Ehrw. Br. Peter de Graaf als Ehrwürdigen Meister.

Euromason 55 mit Sitz in Jávea ist die einzige deutschsprachige Loge der Provinz. Obwohl Peter niederländischer Staatsbürger ist, stammt er aus der niederländischen Provinz Limburg, nahe der deutschen Grenze und spricht fliessend Deutsch.

Ehrw. Br. de Graaf lädt alle Freimaurer der Provinz ein, Euromason 55 zu besuchen, und erklärte:
„Die deutsche Freimaurerei hat einen ganz eigenen Charakter, und wir würden uns sehr freuen, jedes Mitglied der Provinz willkommen zu heißen, das erleben möchte, was wir tun. Obwohl wir in deutscher Sprache arbeiten, bin ich gerne bereit, Übersetzungen für Sprecher anderer Sprachen anzubieten. Ich hoffe, im Laufe meines Amtsjahres viele von Ihnen zu sehen.“

Die Loge hatte die Ehre, Ehrw. Br. Frank Hogg Wallace, Provinzial-Großinspektor, als offiziellen Besucher der Provinzial-Großloge von Valencia zu empfangen.

Auf dem obigen Foto (v. l. n. r.): Ehrw. Br. David Clarke, Ehrw. Br. Ian Brown, Ehrw. Br. Jens Gerl, Ehrw. Br. Peter de Graaf, IPM Ehrw. Br. Dieter Kuckai, Ehrw. Br. Frank Wallace und Ehrw. Br. Nigel Parker.

On Saturday, 8th November 2025, the Provincial Lodge of Instruction will be convened at the Bonalba Hotel, Mutxamel, Alicante.

This year marks the nineteenth occasion that this distinguished event has been held and the honour of hosting has been entrusted to Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No. 58. It is a privilege for any Lodge to preside over such a significant celebration of our Masonic ritual, and this will be the first time that Puerto de Xàbia 58 has undertaken this esteemed responsibility.

The Provincial Lodge of Instruction provides an invaluable opportunity for newer Brethren to occupy offices they may not yet have held within their own Mother Lodge. On this occasion, Brethren from eight Lodges across the Province will assemble in due form to present a full demonstration of the First Degree Ceremony of Initiation.

Following the Ceremony, the Brethren and guests will retire to a formal Festive Board, where the Worshipful Master for the day, Bro. Rafe Parker, will extend fraternal greetings and invite all present to partake in a splendid banquet, conducted with all due Masonic decorum and tradition.

Full booking details are shown below and it is hoped that as many Brethren as possible will attend both the Ceremony and the Festive Board, to support our junior Brethren and share in the harmony of the day.

How to book accommodation at the venue

• Hotel Bonalba, C/Vespre 10, Mutxamel 03110 Alicante
• Reservations must be made by email to: reservas@hotelbonalba.com
• Quoting reference: PLOI 2025
• Hotel website is HERE
• Rooms must be booked by October 15th
  

On Wednesday 3rd September 2025, W. Bro. David Jenkins was installed into the Chair of King Solomon at White River Lodge No 153.

On this auspicious occasion, the Lodge was honoured to receive the Deputy Provincial Grandmaster, R.W. Bro. David Wynn accompanied by his escort of Provincial Grand Stewards.

We all wish W. Bro. Jenkins the very best for his year in office!

Some of the attendees at the final meeting

On 2 July, the Marina Alta Installed Masters Lodge No. 144 launched its Summer Lodges of Instruction at the Costa Nova Masonic Centre in Jávea.

Over the following seven weeks, 39 Brethren from 11 different Lodges took part in the programme. Attendance averaged 20 Brethren per session, and with each meeting lasting around two hours, the Summer LOIs delivered an impressive 280 hours of Masonic education and learning.

Topics covered included:

• Processing in and out
• Opening and closing in the three degrees
• The three Degree ceremonies
• Calling on and off
• The Inner Workings
• The Installation Ceremony
• The Festive Board

A new feature for 2025 was introduced by W. Bro. Cliff Gingell, who organised a weekly Jotform Quiz to test attendees’ knowledge of Masonry, its symbols, and the history behind the symbolism of our rituals. Some of the answers certainly raised an eyebrow or two, but the aim of deepening our Masonic understanding was undoubtedly achieved.

In week 4, W. Bro. Philip Bowick also delivered a fascinating lecture on the Royal Arch, explaining how joining it completes the journey of the Master Mason degree.

On 23 August, the final meeting of the summer was marked with a celebratory Festive Board. Before the meal, W. Bro. Cliff Gingell gave an engaging talk on the customs and traditions of the Festive Board itself.

Double click to enlarge the images. Reading left to right from the top (1. W. Bro Cliff Gingell and R.W. Bro. Michael Shilan, 2. Bro. Rafe Parker, 3. W. Bro. Peter Farrell, 4. W. Bro. Ray Pease, 5. W. Bro. Malcolm March, 6. W. Bro. Ray Guise-Smith, 7. Bro. Rafe Parker and R.W. Bro. Michael Shilan and 8. Bro. Max Heinrich and W. Bro. David Clarke

During the Festive Board, the following Brethren took on key roles:

• Worshipful Master: Bro. Rafe Parker (Puerto de Xàbia 58)
• Director of Ceremonies: W. Bro. David Clarke (Oliva La Safor 112)
• Senior Warden: Bro. Stephen Young (Puerto de Xàbia 58)
• Junior Warden: Bro. Max Heinrich (Jávea 40), who proposed the Toast to the Visitors
• Immediate Past Master: W. Bro. Jerry Roberts (San Juan de España 28)
• Chaplain: W. Bro. Malcolm March (Jávea 40) – also Master Elect of the Marina Alta Lodge of Installed Masters No. 144
• Response to the Visitors’ Toast: W. Bro. Ray Pease (Puerto de Xàbia 58)
• Tyler – W. Bro. Ray Guise Smith (Jávea 40)

The 2025 Summer LOIs were hailed by everyone who attended as a great success. At the Festive Board which marked the conclusion of the 2025 Programme, in his response to the Toast to the Worshipful Master, Bro. Rafe Parker expressed heartfelt thanks to all members of the Marina Alta Installed Masters Lodge for their hard work in organising the programme.

Bro. Parker made special mention of R.W. Bro. Michael Shilan, the current Master; W. Bro. Peter Johnson, who diligently recorded the minutes; W. Bro. Cliff Gingell who organised the Quiz and, last but by no means least, W. Bro. Peter Farrell, Preceptor of the LOIs, whose energy, knowledge, and wise counsel illuminated every meeting and made the time both valuable and enjoyable.