A LA GLORIA DEL GRAN ARQUITECTO DEL UNIVERSO
Arenal Deportiva Lodge No. 65 Supports Alzheimer’s Centre in Teulada
On Tuesday 24th June, members of Arenal Deportiva Lodge No. 65 visited the Alzheimer’s Centre in Teulada (AFA) following a gracious invitation from the Association’s President, Mrs Sylvia Tatnell MBE.
As part of our ongoing support for the local community, Lodge member W. Bro. Graham Simons had identified a need for an orthopaedic chair at the centre. We were therefore pleased to fund this essential piece of equipment through our various fundraising initiatives.
The dedicated staff and nurses at the Alzheimer’s Centre deliver exemplary care to individuals with dementia, thereby easing the burden on carers and families. This cause is one of our most commendable, significantly benefiting those affected and their loved ones.
Pictured are Worshipful Brothers Ian Brown, Philip Bowick, Ricardo Estornell (Worshipful Master), Graham Simons and Peter Johnson alongside Centre President Mrs Sylvia Tatnell MBE.
Sol y Compás – Issue No 1 – Summer 2025
The June Edition of the revised Provincial Newsletter, Sol y Compás, has been published and distributed via Lodge Secretaries.
A Flipbook version is available which can be viewed on mobiles, tablets and PCs. A PDF version in English or Spanish may be downloaded from the links below.
Oliva La Safor Lodge 112 celebrates the Summer Solstice in style
21st June marks the beginning of astronomical summer. Commonly known as the Summer Solstice, the name derives from the Latin words “Sol” (sun) and “sistere” (to stand still), referring to the sun’s apparent pause at the peak of its northward journey across the sky.
Interesting Fact: in 2024, due to the leap year, the solstice actually fell on 20th June.
For thousands of years, cultures across the globe have observed the Summer Solstice with festivals and rituals—often involving bonfires. These celebrations are traditionally associated with the Feast Day of St John the Baptist, held on 24th June. Historically, this date aligned with the solstice on the Roman calendar.
Along the Mediterranean coast, the occasion is marked with vibrant parties, fireworks, and fires in honour of Sant Joan—and the Brethren of Oliva La Safor Lodge No. 112 certainly embraced the spirit of the season.
More than 40 members and their guests gathered at La Bresca Restaurant in Els Poblets to enjoy a Solstice Dinner beneath the Jacaranda trees in the garden’s charming surroundings.
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The sun, the most honoured guest of the evening, made its presence felt with temperatures soaring past 30°C. Thankfully, a refreshing sea breeze brought some relief.
Live entertainment was provided by Dave Manhatten, who serenaded the crowd with classic hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s. A few adventurous guests even set aside their fans to take to the dance floor to the songs of Billy Ocean, The Drifters and The Monkees.
Despite the heat, the spirit of Charity remained at the forefront. A well-supported raffle raised €300 for the Lodge’s charity fund. Worshipful Master W. Bro. David Clarke offered thanks to all those in attendance, remarking:
“We are truly grateful to everyone who joined us this evening. We hope you’ve had a wonderful time. As always, we are humbled by your generosity, and I can assure you that every euro raised tonight will go towards supporting worthwhile causes in the Marina Alta region.”
As the sun finally dipped below the western horizon, the team from Oliva La Safor ensured that every guest left well-fed, well-refreshed, and filled with fond memories of an evening spent in warmth, fellowship and celebration.
Arenal Deportiva Lodge No 65 salutes a new Worshipful Master – en Español!
On Tuesday 17th June, Arenal Deportiva Lodge No 65 saw its first native Spanish speaking brother, W. Bro. Ricardo Estornell Canet, installed in the chair of King Solomon. This is a milestone for the lodge as it is primarily an English-speaking lodge. The installation ceremony was conducted in Spanish to great aplomb by W. Bro. Philip Bowick (outgoing Master) and W. Bro. Ian Brown (Secretary) who were ably assisted by other Officers of the Lodge.
W. Bro. Ricardo has been a stalwart member of Arenal Deportiva Lodge No 65 for over 10 years and has progressed admirably through all the offices in the Lodge. He is one of the Lodge’s most loved brothers.
The Lodge was honoured to have the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. David Wynn, along with his Official Escort. R.W. Bro. Wynn congratulated the lodge and its members on an excellent installation ceremony, especially in a second language, and hoped that this landmark will encourage more Spanish speaking candidates to consider joining what have been primarily English speaking Lodges in Valencia.
En Español
¡Arenal Deportiva Lodge No 65 saluda a un nuevo Venerable Maestro – en Español!
El martes 17 de junio, Arenal Deportiva Lodge No 65 contó con su primer hermano nativo de habla hispana, W. Bro. Ricardo Estornell Canet, quien fue instalado en la silla del Rey Salomón. Este es un hito para la logia, ya que es principalmente una logia de habla inglesa. La ceremonia de instalación se llevó a cabo en español con gran aplomo por W. Bro. Philip Bowick (Maestro saliente) y W. Bro. Ian Brown (Secretario), contando con la valiosa asistencia de otros Oficiales de la logia.
W. Bro. Ricardo ha sido un miembro incondicional de Arenal Deportiva Lodge No 65 durante más de 10 años y ha progresado admirablemente a través de todos los cargos de la logia. Es uno de los hermanos más queridos.
La logia tuvo el honor de contar con la presencia del Gran Maestro Provincial Adjunto, R.W. Bro. David Wynn, junto con su Escolta Oficial. R.W. Bro. Wynn felicitó a la logia y a sus miembros por una excelente ceremonia de instalación, especialmente en un segundo idioma, y expresó la esperanza de que este hito incentive a más candidatos hispanohablantes a considerar unirse a lo que hasta ahora han sido logias predominantemente de habla inglesa en Valencia.
Quesada Summer LOIs start with fascinating lecture on the First Degree
The Quesada Summer Lodges of Instruction commenced successfully today, with Worshipful Brother Chris Ward, Worshipful Master of the Installed Masters Lodge No.108, delivering a captivating lecture on the intriguing mysteries of the first degree.
The lecture inspired a lively and engaging discussion on Freemasonry, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance. The Summer Lodges of Instruction offer a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Freemasonry’s multifaceted aspects, benefiting all Masons regardless of their level of experience.
Those interested in joining the Quesada Lodges of Instruction may contact W. Bro. Chris Ward at chr1sward@outlook.com.
- 3rd July 2025 – The Second Degree – The allegories behind the words (Open only to FCs and above)
- 17th July 2025 – The work of the Provincial Secretariat (Open to all)
- 31st July 2025 – The work of the Provincial Almoner (Open to all)
- 14th August 2025 – The Building of King Solomon’s Temple (Open to all)
- 28th August 2025 – The work of the Provincial Charity Steward (Open to all)
- 11th September 2025 – Preparing for the Chair – A Warden’s Seminar (Open to all)
Santa Faz Lodge No 48 Ladies Night
Santa Faz 48 – Saddle up ‘n Farmers Party
We are thrilled to announce that our event raised a net charity sum of €3,165.00 – simply amazing!
Guests began arriving at 14:00 on a very warm and sunny day in the outskirts of Castalla. A coach picked up attendees from Alfaz del Pi/Albir, El Campello, and Castalla International.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the members of lodges Santa Faz 48 and San Juan 28, as well as non-Masonic friends, neighbours, and family for their wonderful support.
Special thanks to the Provincial Grandmaster Rodney Charles Bignell and his wife Jeanette for their attendance and for presenting the specially produced Green Parrot Tourism S.L. Golden Ticket gift draw.
We were nearly 90 strong – truly magical. A special thank you also goes to Bro. Hamish McConnachie for managing communications, guest reservations, and collecting donations from Castalla International.
Without every one of you, our event simply would not have been possible. My wife and I enjoyed a fabulous day and feel very honoured to have supported such a worthy cause – MABS Cancer Support Costa Blanca. Our W. Bro Michael LePeuple carried out the role of event treasurer, diligently monitoring the financial aspects (and even navigating the occasional wobbly steps). I am grateful to have him as both a friend and a mentor on my Masonic journey. It was our pleasure to be of service.
Lastly, we must acknowledge all the volunteers whose assistance made this large-scale event a success. The fantastic catering provided by Mr Jordan Ramsey, a genuine Texan BBQ specialist, was the icing on the cake, along with live music from singer Kim and a performance by the cover band Defcon4.
Report by Bro. Haakon Ellingsen – Charity Steward, Santa Faz Lodge No. 48
Does your Lodge have a story for the Provincial Website?
We’re always happy to publish your news on the website. Please send details to Bro. Steve Young on calendar@glpvalencia.com or prensa@glpvalencia.com.
Bookings for Jávea 40 Ladies Night on 19th September are now closed
Golf, Brotherhood, and Charity: The Annual Masonic Golf Tournament
Left to right – Deputy Provincial Grandmaster David Wynn, Co-Organiser Richard Davis, Provincial Grandmaster Rodney Bignell
On Thursday, 29 May, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia held the Annual Masonic Golf Tournament at Bon Alba Golf Resort in Mutxamel, Alicante. Over 80 golfers in 21 teams from across Valencia tackled the challenging course under beautiful blue skies with its many trees, lakes, fountains, and bunkers.
A key event in the Masonic calendar, the tournament combined enjoyment with fundraising for Masonic charities. The competition was a Texas Scramble format, and the teams also vied for extra prizes awarded for the longest drive on hole 2 and for hitting nearest the pin on holes 4, 8, 11, and 14. Prizes included golf balls, champagne, and vouchers for the Bon Alba Restaurant, hotel, and green fees.
Nigel Parker from Jávea 40 and Alex Henderson from Oliva La Safor 112
Last year’s top team—featuring Nigel Parker and Alex Henderson—returned to defend their title. As the final putts dropped and our golfers headed to the 19th hole, the winners were announced:
- Nearest the Pin – Hole 4: Derek Cruickshank
- Nearest the Pin – Hole 8: Stewart Charlton
- Nearest the Pin – Hole 11: Dave Isaac
- Nearest the Pin – Hole 14: Steve Thorpe
- Longest Drive – Hole 2: Nick Panter
- Best Handicap Team: The Tartan Lions (51 points)
- Best Scratch Team: Green Parrot Tourism (44 points)
- Best Masonic Team: San Juan De España 28 (50 points)
By tradition, the best Masonic team receives the John William Harvey Masonic Memorial Trophy in honour of Worshipful Brother John Harvey of Old Tower Lodge No 49, a founder of the tournament. This year, Provincial Grandmaster Rodney Bignell presented the trophy to the winning San Juan De España Lodge No 28 team—Jason Fowler, Ian Makin, and Rob Baxter.
Left to right – Provincial Grandmaster Rodney Bignell, Bro. Rob Baxter, W. Bro. Jason Fowler and W. Bro. Ian Makin
In addition to the entry fees, fundraising efforts included a Golden Ticket draw (sponsored by Green Parrot Tourism, raising €1,480) and a raffle that collected €750.
Organiser W. Bro. Peter Johnson remarked, “Thanks to the generosity of our players, Lodges from across the Province of Valencia, our sponsors C&M Plumbing, Green Parrot Tourism, Golden Leaves International and Bon Alba Golf, we have raised more than €6,000 for Masonic charities”.
It was a day marked by camaraderie, spirited competition, and community support—a brilliant celebration of golf and Masonic values.
Do you have a story to publish on the Provincial website?
We’re always happy to publish your news on the website. Please send details to Bro. Steve Young on calendar@glpvalencia.com or prensa@glpvalencia.com.
Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 raise over €4,000 for charity at a glittering Ladies Night
On Friday, May 30th, Salones Carrasco played host to a glittering evening as 100 guests gathered for the Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 Ladies Night. The sun was shining with temperatures reaching a delightful 30°C, setting a perfect stage for a Cava reception on the terrace. Guests sipped Cava while nibbling on an assortment of delicious canapés—a perfect start to the celebrations ahead.
The lively chatter in the dining room gave way to warm applause as guests rose to greet their hosts, Worshipful Master John Young and his wife Jenny.
A sumptuous three-course dinner followed, paired with plenty of wine, beer, and soft drinks that kept the conversation upbeat and the smiles wide.
After dessert, anticipation filled the air as the Entertainers—one of Costa Blanca’s premiere acts—took to the stage. They delivered a captivating performance that seamlessly wove together classics from ELO and Shania Twain with stirring renditions of timeless theatre favourites from Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables. The diverse repertoire had everyone swaying, clapping, and singing along.
The Entertainers performing numbers from the Phantom of the Opera
The formal part of the night kicked off with W. Bro. Ray Pease delivering a charming and amusing Toast to the Ladies. Then, W. Bro. Ken Cornforth, ably assisted by Senior Warden W. Bro. John Beavis and Junior Warden, Bro. Rafe Parker, performed the Ladies Song to the delight of the audience.
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Responding to the formal toast on behalf of the Ladies, Mrs. Jenny Young said, “I want to thank everyone involved for making the evening so special. In particular, I must mention the local Freemasons who have given so generously, the Entertainers for their brilliant performance, and all the guests who have joined us tonight.”
Mrs Jenny Young responds to the Ladies Toast
And the night’s festivities carried a serious purpose beyond the music and merriment. The event was dedicated to raising funds for two much-deserving charities: Help of Marina Alta and Cancer Care Jávea.
With the support of Candy Wright MBE, President of Help of Marina Alta, and Jayne Nuttall Blake, President of Cancer Care Jávea, the Lodge organized a Grand Auction featuring five unique lots. They also held a Prize Draw with twelve delightful prizes, all generously donated by members of the Puerto de Xàbia Lodge and other local lodges.
Soon after, Worshipful Brother John Young presented Jenny with a beautiful bouquet and made an important announcement. He said, “Thanks to the evening’s collective efforts—from the event itself, the Auction, and the Prize Draw—the total funds raised tonight are more than €4,000, a sum to be shared equally between Help of Marina Alta and Cancer Care Jávea”.
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With the uplifting news echoing in the hearts of all present, the Entertainers returned for a rousing second set. As the night drew to a close, guests filled the dance floor, revelling in a celebration that was as much about community spirit as it was about fun.
Do you have a story to post on the Provincial website?
We’re always happy to publish your news on the website. Please send details to Bro. Steve Young on calendar@glpvalencia.com or prensa@glpvalencia.com.