It is with great sadness that I report the passing to the Grand Lodge Above of W. Bro. Mike Glass PPGStwd, a member of Javea Lodge No. 40, on 26 April 2026.
A proud Welshman, W.Bro. Mike was aged 92 and had been a Freemason for 67 years. He became a Joining Member of Javea Lodge No. 40 in January 2019, and his knowledge of Freemasonry was second to none.
Due to his deteriorating health, he and his wife, Diane, returned to Wales in 2024 and settled in Swansea. Despite this move, he continued to maintain his membership of Javea Lodge No. 40.
May the Great Architect of the Universe keep him safe until we meet again.
Saturday 25th April brought lovely weather, great company and a wonderfully British sense of fun as more than 50 members, partners and prospective members gathered at the home of W. Bro. Kevin Hamilton for our annual St George’s Spring Fête.
From the moment the gates opened, the garden was buzzing with activity. The cake stall — expertly run by Bro. Paul Lewis and his wife Miranda — was nothing short of legendary. Their line‑up included Salted Caramel Carrot Cake, Frosted Carrot Cake, Blondies, White Chocolate & Raspberry tray bakes, and Lemon & Blueberry cupcakes. Many of us pretended to be “just browsing”… before returning moments later with a plateful.
Double click on images to expand
Elsewhere, the book stall did a brisk trade, while the competitive spirits came out for Throw a Euro nearest to the bottle, darts, and a fun putting challenge. And of course, no fête would be complete without the ever‑popular opportunity to throw a wet sponge at the Worshipful Master — an activity enjoyed far too much by certain Brethren!
When hunger struck, everyone tucked into hearty traditional fare: Steak or Chicken pie, or Sausages, all served with mash, peas and proper gravy. The Honesty Bar kept spirits high, and the afternoon was rounded off perfectly with live music from Dave Manhattan, whose set had toes tapping across the garden.
Most importantly, thanks to the generosity and good humour of all who attended, the event raised a fantastic 1,080€ for the Centro de Marina Alta — a brilliant result and a testament to the strength of our Masonic community.
A huge thank you to W. Bro. Kevin for hosting the event, and a big shout out to all who helped, baked, cooked, organised and entertained, and to everyone who came along to support the day. Roll on the next one!
The Costa Nova Temple Committee confirms that the Costa Nova Temple will close on 30th June, following the landlord’s need to hand the building to a new tenant. We are grateful for his support throughout our transition toward the Province’s future permanent home, the Centro de Marina Alta in Ondara, now progressing through its development phase.
Temporary Temple in Jávea
From early July, meetings will relocate to the Toscamar Dance Café, which will serve as our temporary Temple. Lodge furniture and equipment will be transferred in early July, allowing:
Summer Lodges of Instruction to proceed as planned
Regular Meetings to resume in September
A Provincial Call to Support the New Centre
This move marks an important step toward establishing our permanent Provincial home. It also underlines the need to raise funds to accelerate completion of the Centro de Marina Alta. We urge all Brethren to support ongoing fundraising efforts by:
On Wednesday 22nd April, Jávea Lodge No. 40 gathered in fine form for its Regular Meeting at the Costa Nova Masonic Centre. The evening was enriched further by the welcome presence of visiting Brethren from as far afield as Hampshire in England and Antwerp in Belgium, a reminder of Freemasonry’s remarkable ability to bring together Brethren across borders and jurisdictions.
The evening was brought to life by varied and accomplished contributions from the Lodge officers, united under the assured leadership of the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Kevin Hamilton, whose steady hand guided the Lodge through a polished and truly memorable occasion.
The highlight of the evening was the Initiation of Bro. Anders Jonsson — a moment of profound significance as a new Brother took his first steps on the Masonic journey. He was guided around the Temple with care and dignity by the Junior Deacon, Bro. Max Heinrich, whose attentive performance reflected great credit on both himself and the Lodge.
The warmth of the evening carried through to the Festive Board, where 25 Brethren came together in good fellowship and all traditional toasts were honoured in fine spirit. The raffle added to the occasion, raising an excellent €250 for charitable purposes, with the star prize — a unit in Fraternal Unidad — delighting its winner, W. Bro. Malcolm March.
The spirit of generosity continued as Brethren offered sponsorship pledges totalling €195 in enthusiastic support of Javea 40 members, W. Bro. Matt James and W. Bro. Bob Harris, who will be taking to the skies in the Provincial Skydiving event on 24th May — a bold and admirable demonstration of the Province’s commitment to raising funds for the new Centro de Marina Alta.
L-R – W. Bro. Kevin Hamilton, Bro. Roger Wensel (De Oude Plichten No 15), W. Bro. Bob Harris – double click to expand images
The evening’s most touching moment came courtesy of the Worshipful Master, who proposed a wonderfully unexpected toast: to all Brethren initiated within the previous ten days. Remarkably, three such Brethren were present — Bro. Chay van Morkhoven from Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No. 58, Bro. Craig James from Oliva La Safor Lodge No. 112, and the newly made Bro. Anders Jonsson — a moment that drew the room together in shared celebration of Freemasonry’s enduring power to welcome and unite.
The meeting was, in every sense, a celebration of the harmony, hospitality, and shared purpose that make Freemasonry in the Province of Valencia something truly worth belonging to.
On Tuesday 21st April, the Brethren of Oliva La Safor Lodge No. 112 gathered at the Costa Nova Masonic Centre for a meeting marked by ceremony, fellowship and strong inter‑Lodge support.
The Lodge was honoured to welcome 30 attendees, including visiting groups from Jávea Lodge No. 40, Germanies Lodge No. 8, Fidelísima‑Amor Lodge No. 199 and a visiting Brother, W. Bro. Rob Lowe from Rugby Bastion Lodge No. 9896 in England — a fine demonstration of the unity and friendship that characterise our Province and the Craft in general.
The highlight of the evening was the Initiation of Bro. Craig James, conducted under the expert leadership of the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. David Clarke. During the ceremony, Craig was skilfully guided around the Temple by the Junior Deacon, Bro. Colin Kenward, who also had the pleasure of being his Proposer.
The meeting was further distinguished by the presence of the Official Visitor, V.W. Bro. Frank Hogg Wallace, accompanied by his escort of Provincial Stewards, whose attendance added dignity and support to the proceedings.
Following the meeting, 26 Brethren enjoyed a convivial Festive Board, where all traditional toasts were observed in fine spirit. The raffle proved particularly successful, raising 245€ for charitable purposes. In a moment of good fortune, the star prize — a unit in Asociación Fraternal Unidad — was won by Bro. Steve Young, a member of the Official Escort party.
The evening reflected the very best of Freemasonry in Valencia: ceremony conducted with care, visitors welcomed with warmth, and charity supported with enthusiasm.
On Sunday 19th April, Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No. 58 held a wonderfully successful Car Treasure Hunt, bringing together members, families and friends for a day of enjoyment and exploration around the beautiful town of Jávea.
A total of 25 members and guests set off in cars to tackle an impressive 47 clues, each one guiding them along a scenic and cleverly designed route. The trail wound around the majestic Montgó, across Cabo de San Antonio, through the Port of Jávea, into the charming Old Town, onward to Portitxol, and finally out to the dramatic viewpoint of the Cabo de la Nao lighthouse.
A particular highlight was the clear view of Ibiza from Cabo San Antonio. Although only 70 miles away, the island is only visible on very clear days. Magnificent!
The event concluded at the welcoming Faro de Azahar Restaurant, where participants gathered to share stories, compare answers and enjoy well‑earned refreshments after their journey.
A special word of thanks is due to W. Bro. James Campbell, whose hard work, planning and good humour ensured the day ran smoothly and was enjoyed by all. His efforts were central to the success of the event.
L-R – Bro. Rafe Parker, W. Bro. Nick Coates, W. Bro. James Campbell
Most importantly, the Treasure Hunt raised 345€ for the Lodge’s charity fund, the majority of which will, in accordance with the Lodge’s agreed policy for 2026, be donated to the new Centro de Marina Alta.
A memorable day of fellowship and fun — well done to all involved.
A bucket‑list challenge many of us promise ourselves “one day”… now being bravely taken on by several of our younger (and certainly bolder!) members. On 24th May, they will step out of a plane at 15,000 feet to raise funds for the new Marina Alta Masonic Centre and the wide range of community charities we support.
🌟 Why We’re Jumping
Every donation raised through this sponsored skydive directly supports our 2026 Provincial charitable programme, including:
The Marina Alta Masonic Centre (Ondara) Purchased in 2025 and now undergoing full renovation, this Centre will become the heart of our community fundraising, events, and outreach work in the central part of our Province.
Other Masonic Charities We continue to support advanced prostate cancer testing and partner with vital local organisations such as The Pink Ladies, MABS Cancer Support Group, and AECC (Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer). Your contribution helps sustain their essential work.
📅 Join Us in Supporting the Skydive – 24th May
On 24th May, our volunteers will take the leap — quite literally — to raise funds for:
The new Centre in Ondara
Local community projects
Emergency assistance initiatives
Compassionate support for those most in need
Every contribution, large or small, helps us make a meaningful difference.
🙏 Thank You
Your generosity ensures that this daring challenge becomes a powerful act of charity. Thank you for helping us make this jump count.
For more information or to join the Skydive, please email W. Bro. Matthew James on sec@glpvalencia.com
Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No. 58 enjoyed a memorable evening at its April meeting, marked by ceremony, fellowship and a sense of renewal for the year ahead.
The Lodge was delighted to welcome its newest Brother, Chay van Morkhoven, who was Initiated into the Craft under the steady and accomplished hand of the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Nick Coates. The ceremony was conducted with dignity and warmth, reflecting the strong spirit of unity within the Lodge.
L-R W. Bro. Peter de Graaf (Proposer), Bro. Stuart Wall (Introducer), Bro. Chay van Morkhoven, W. Bro. Nick Coates
This meeting also carried special significance as it marked W. Bro. Coates’ final meeting in the Chair, bringing to a close a heartfelt and successful year of leadership. His commitment, good humour and steady guidance have been deeply appreciated by the Brethren. Looking forward, the Lodge extends its warmest congratulations to Bro. Rafe Parker, who has been elected to serve as Worshipful Master for the year 2026–27 and will be Installed in October.
In addition to the ceremonial highlights, the Lodge was pleased to report that 500€ has been raised through a Grand National Sweepstake, organised by the Brethren of Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 and neighbouring Lodges. This generous contribution will be donated to the Centro de Marina Alta, supporting the ongoing refurbishment and development of our new Provincial centre in Ondara. The Province extends its sincere thanks to all who participated and helped make this initiative such a success.
Following the meeting, the Brethren adjourned to a most enjoyable Festive Board, where all traditional toasts were observed in fine spirit. A raffle held during the evening raised a further 175€. In a fitting twist of fortune, the top prize — a unit in Fraternal Unidad valued at 150€ — was won by none other than W. Bro. Nick Coates, bringing his final night as Worshipful Master to a cheerful and memorable close.
The evening was a fine example of what binds us as Freemasons: tradition, fellowship, charity and the welcoming of new beginnings.
11 April 2026 – A Milestone Gathering at the New Centre in Ondara
The Asociación Unidad Fraternal held its Annual General Meeting on 11 April 2026 in a venue that symbolised both progress and promise: the newly prepared Centre at Ondara. Specially cleaned, organised and set up for the occasion, the building welcomed 30 unitholders and Lodge representatives.
A Warm Welcome to a New Era
The President of Fraternal Unidad, opened the meeting by welcoming everyone to the new Centre—now formally named Centro de Marina Alta.
Building Project Update: A Clear Path
W. Bro. Terry Whitehead provided an update on the building work. Although many brethren have offered their help, there are insufficient specialist tradesmen within our local Lodges to undertake some key tasks. As a result, we will need to contract local building firms to carry out these essential elements. The process of obtaining formal tenders is now underway, and it is anticipated that overall project costs will increase accordingly (see Treasurer’s report).
W. Bro. Whitehead then presented the latest development plan (Plan X), outlining the objective to host the Provincial Lodge of Instruction on 21 November 2026. From that point, the intention is to gradually transition away from the Costa Nova Masonic Centre, completing the move by Spring 2027.
The Treasurer presented an updated financial snapshot:
Cash in bank (January): 25,000€
Funds raised in 2026 to date: 24,000€
Money spent since January: (5,000€)
Total in the bank today: 44,000€
PLOI readiness in November: we need to raise 39,000€* more
Launch with 1 Temple: we need to raise 81,000€* more
To complete the vision: we need to raise 143,000€* more
*subject to finalising quotations from builders and suppliers
Already, we have received pledges totalling 11,000€ and is very clear that Lodges across the Province are organising events to raise extra funds. Further discussions with GLE and other Masonic bodies both in Spain and England may yield extra funds towards our objectives.
These figures underline both the impressive support already shown but also the continued need for fundraising as the project accelerates. The Treasurer paid tribute to all of the work done so far this year: so far we are averaging 2,000€ raised every week!
Golden Ticket Draw: A Winning Moment
The popular Golden Ticket Draw was made by Bro. Haakon Ellingsen of Green Parrot Tourism.
The lucky winner was W. Bro. Jason Fowler of San Juan Lodge No. 28, who receives a three‑night stay at a top hotel in Spain. The draw raised approximately 1,800€ for the Centre—another welcome contribution to the campaign.
Preparing for the Future: Centre Management & Crowdfunding Launch
The new Centre will have its own Management Committee, which will oversee operations once the building opens. It was emphasised that volunteers from local Lodges and Orders will be essential, as managing our own Centre will involve a significantly expanded workload.
An important milestone was also highlighted: the launch of the Crowdfunding appeal on Monday. This is really important as it widens the scope of our fundraising to non-Masons, other Provinces in Spain and also in England.
An example of the advertisements which will support the Crowdfunding campaign
• The M.W. Grandmaster of Spain, M.W. Bro. Shaun Parsons‑Herrera, has pledged to promote the appeal across all Provinces in the GLE.
• The R.W. Provincial Grandmaster is approaching UGLE to seek their support in promoting the appeal across English Lodges.
A Meeting Marked by Optimism and Purpose
Artists Impression of the finished Centro de Marina Alta
The 2026 AGM was more than a statutory gathering—it was a clear demonstration of collective commitment to creating the biggest and best Masonic Centre in Spain. With strong leadership, transparent planning and growing financial support, the vision of the Centro de Marina Alta is moving steadily toward reality.
