During the first few months of 2026 our Provincial Grand Lodge working closely with our Eastern Area Membership Officer, Richard Sykes, to conduct a digital campaign to encourage non-masons to learn more about Freemasonry.

This culminated on 4 March 2026 at Rochdale Masonic Hall where 13 non-masons received a presentation from Richard (Area Membership Officer), Aaron (East Lancashire Level Club Chairman) and Jackie P (representing women’s freemasonry)

Following a very engaging talk from Richard we proceeded to the lodge room where Lodge of Harmony 298 had just finished conducting their business of the evening. Our guests were admitted and a further presentation was had which detailed the officers of the lodge, their positions and duties during a masonic meeting. There were plenty of opportunity for our guests to ask questions gain an understanding of freemasonry and to dispel a lot of myths regarding what we do. For example, whilst freemasonry is predominantly a male pastime dating back over 300 years, did you know women’s freemasonry also has a rich history over a century old?

We also had a short talk from several lodges from across the Eastern Area that were represented.

In keeping with tradition we ended the evening with food and friendship at an informal social board.

If you interested in joining freemasonry in either Bacup, Oldham, Rochdale, Shaw, Todmorden or Middleton please email Richard : membership@eafm.org.uk