A Historic Day for East Lancashire Light Blue Masons: The Procession into Provincial Grand Lodge and the Launch of the East Lancashire Light Blue Club
On a crisp snowy autumn morning in Blackburn, history was made as the Light Blue East Lancashire Master Masons processed into the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire for the very first time in the history of the province. The air buzzed with excitement; the significance of the occasion was apparent to all in attendance. Brothers from across the province gathered in their regalia, but it was the Light Blue Masons who took centre stage.
Wearing their distinctive light blue regalia, these junior brethren, representing the future of Freemasonry, walked with pride into the Provincial Grand Lodge, a place steeped in history and tradition. The symbolism of this moment was profound. For the Light Blue Masons, it marked the first step into the wider Masonic family, a gesture of unity between the experienced and the newly initiated. It was a powerful reminder of Freemasonry’s enduring values: fraternity, charity, and self-improvement.
The splendour and tradition of Freemasonry were on full display as the Light Blue Masons of East Lancashire made their solemn procession into the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire For those who have journeyed through the early stages of Masonry, this moment was much more than a mere ceremony; it was a rite of passage, a symbolic integration into the heart of the Provincial Grand Lodge.
The Procession: A Moment to Remember
As the procession began, the Light Blue Masons, walked with purpose and pride. The sight was both striking and moving. These young and new members of the Craft were walking the same path trodden by countless Masons before them but with the added significance of representing the next generation. They were greeted warmly by their senior brethren, who acknowledged the importance of this moment for the growth and sustainability of Freemasonry.
For many of these Masons, the Provincial Grand Lodge meeting was their first major provincial event, and the honour of participating in such a way was not lost on them. It was clear from their faces that they understood the weight of the moment. As they entered the grand hall, they were met with applause, not just from those present, but in recognition of the continuity they represent – the bridge between the past and the future of Freemasonry.
A Momentous Occasion: The Launch of the East Lancashire Level Club
As the ceremony unfolded, the air buzzed with anticipation for what would become a defining moment for young Freemasons across the Provine. The Provincial Grand Master Robert Frankl, resplendent in his ceremonial regalia flanked by the provincial Standard and Sword, rose to make an announcement that had been eagerly awaited by many who had worked to bring the club to fruition: the official launch of the East Lancashire Level Club, a dedicated organization for the Light Blue Masons.
In his address to the Light Blues, the Provincial Grand Master spoke passionately about the need to cultivate and nurture the next generation of Masons. The East Lancashire Level Club, he explained, would serve as a crucial platform for Light Blue brethren to connect, learn, and grow within the fraternity. It would be a space where newer Masons could build their understanding of the Craft, form bonds with their peers, and feel supported as they embark on their masonic journey.
“The future of Freemasonry rests in your hands,” he said, addressing the assembled Light Blue Masons directly. “This club is not just an organization—it’s a community that will guide you, inspire you, and help you flourish both within and outside the Lodge.”
The launch of the East Lancashire Level Club comes at a pivotal time. With the Light Blue community growing across the province, the need for a structured environment for younger Masons has become increasingly clear. The club will provide networking opportunities, mentorship, and education tailored to the unique experiences of Light Blue brethren. Moreover, it will foster a sense of belonging and purpose, ensuring that the values of Freemasonry are passed down with renewed Vigor and enthusiasm.
Following the meeting and the closing of the Lodge, the RWPGM shared a photo with all the Light Blues in the procession.
Before the Social Board, our very own qualified mixologist Brother Stuart Meckenzie put together a specially made cocktail for the occasion.
“ON THE LEVEL” –
The colours of the cocktail and garnish reflect those of the blue ELLC logo. The lemon peel represents the colour of the Sun. Why a Martini glass? The shape of the glass reflects that of some of our “working tools.”
Looking to the Future
Now officially launched members of the East Lancashire Level Club, there was a palpable sense of excitement for what the future holds. The Provincial Grand Lodge, with its centuries of tradition, now stood firmly behind its newest members, ready to support and guide them in their endeavours.
This event marks a significant chapter in the history of Freemasonry in East Lancashire. With the establishment of the Level Club, the Light Blue Masons are no longer on the periphery but are now an integral part of the Provincial Grand Lodge’s future. It is an exciting time for Freemasonry across the province, as the next generation of Masons step forward to carry on the Craft’s proud legacy.
In conclusion, the procession into Provincial Grand Lodge and the launch of the East Lancashire Level Club represents not just the beginning of a new initiative, but the dawn of a new era for Freemasonry in East Lancashire. The Light Blue Masons are set to leave their mark, guided by the principles of brotherhood, charity, and self-improvement that have been the bedrock of Freemasonry for centuries.
As they move forward, they do so with the full support of the Provincial Grand Lodge and the Provincial Grand Master, who have made it clear that the future of Freemasonry is bright and that the Light Blue brethren will play a vital role in shaping that future.
