On Thursday 8th October 2026, the Lodge of St John No.191 welcomed Brethren, family and friends to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of WBro George Rodney Shirt, marking 50 years of dedicated service to Freemasonry.
The occasion was made particularly special by the presence of the Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Western Area, Dr Simon Archer, alongside Rodney’s family, who joined the Brethren in the Lodge room to share in this significant milestone.
Rodney’s Masonic journey began on the 16th September 1976, when he was initiated into Constitution Lodge No.3392. He became Worshipful Master in 1981 and returned to the Chair in 1997, serving for a further two years. During his nearly 30 years with the Lodge, he also dedicated an impressive 20 years to the demanding role of Secretary.
In 2001, Rodney joined Felicity Lodge, becoming its Worshipful Master in 2007, before joining the Lodge of St John No.191 in 2011. He continued his commitment to the Craft by taking the Chair of his new Lodge in 2023, bringing his total to four periods as Worshipful Master across three Lodges.
Rodney’s dedication also extends to the Royal Arch. Exalted into Felicity Chapter in 1978, he served in numerous offices, including Director of Ceremonies and the three Sojourner roles, before becoming First Principal in 1984.
His considerable contribution to Freemasonry has been recognised through a number of Provincial appointments and promotions. In the Craft, he was appointed ProvAGDC in 1988, promoted to PProvGSuptWks in 1995 and subsequently to PProvJGW in 2001. His Royal Arch service was similarly recognised, culminating in his promotion to PProvGSwdB in 2012.
One of the highlights of the evening was a personal tribute delivered by Rodney’s son, Bro David Shirt, who reflected on his father’s remarkable Masonic journey and the commitment he has shown throughout the past five decades.
The celebration also included the reading of a letter from the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master and the presentation of an illuminated Golden Jubilee certificate, recognising Rodney’s 50 years of service. Rodney was then escorted around the Lodge to the warm acclamation of the Brethren, a fitting acknowledgement of this wonderful achievement.
Throughout the evening, the appreciation and affection held for Rodney were clear to see. His years of service, friendship and commitment to his Lodges and the wider Province have left a lasting impression on those who have had the pleasure of knowing him.
We congratulate WBro Rodney Shirt on reaching this magnificent milestone and wish him many more happy and fulfilling years in Freemasonry.
