What a fantastic day for Phoenix Lodge No. 9963!
On Saturday 11th July 2026, Brethren, family, friends and guests gathered at Beverley Masonic Hall for a landmark occasion in the history of the Lodge: the Dedication of the new Phoenix Lodge Banner. The ceremony was made even more special by the presence of the Provincial Grand Master, Right Worshipful Brother Mark Iveson, accompanied by a distinguished team of Provincial Grand Officers, including the Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, Worshipful Brother Martin Richard Eggermont PSGD and Worshipful Brother Harold Leslie Elliott, together with the Third Provincial Grand Principal, Excellent Companion Nick Mitchell, representing the Provincial Grand Chapter.
The dedication ceremony celebrated not only the unveiling of a beautiful new banner but also the remarkable journey of Phoenix Lodge itself. The banner, featuring a phoenix rising triumphantly from a tankard of ale and bearing the Lodge motto Ex Igne ("From the Fire"), perfectly captures the spirit of renewal, fellowship and tradition that defines our Lodge, designed by W. Bros Steele and McCallum.
The event attracted an outstanding attendance of 55 people, bringing together Lodge members, partners, friends and supporters. We were particularly delighted to welcome 33 visiting Brethren representing 18 sister Lodges from 3 Provinces, demonstrating the tremendous support and goodwill that Phoenix Lodge continues to enjoy throughout the wider Masonic community.
A particular vote of thanks must go to W. Bro Howard Bean, Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, whose careful planning and professional direction ensured that the Banner Dedication was conducted with dignity, precision and reverence. The ceremony was both smooth and deeply moving, creating a memorable occasion that reflected the significance of the day for all present.
An important piece of Lodge business was also conducted during the meeting, with the Brethren approving a £500 donation to Festival 2029, reaffirming Phoenix Lodge's ongoing commitment to supporting Masonic charity and the Province's Festival appeal. Charity was also very much at the heart of the day. A raffle held during the festivities raised an excellent £225 for Zarach, the Worshipful Master, W. Bro Paul Hillary's chosen Charity of the Year. Zarach works to end child bed poverty by providing beds to children who need them most, ensuring they have the comfort, security and stability that a good night's sleep can provide. The generosity shown by members, visitors and guests once again demonstrated the charitable values that lie at the heart of Freemasonry.
A special mention must also go to W. Bro Tim Brooksbank, who stepped in as Lodge Director of Ceremonies for the day, as W.Bro Hinchcliffe was kept busy with his duties in the Provincial Team ensuring things ran smoothly in the background. Tim carried out his duties with great professionalism and ensured that proceedings ran smoothly throughout and later kept the Festive Board in excellent order, helping to create the warm and enjoyable atmosphere that made the celebration such a success.
Following the ceremony, members and guests enjoyed a superb White Table Festive Board, featuring excellent food and a special beer tasting hosted by the award-winning Munyard Brewery of Louth. Five different ales were presented and sampled, creating the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon of friendship, laughter and fellowship.
Special thanks must go to the Provincial Grand Master and his accompanying Officers, Revd Bro John Fisher for delivering such a thoughtful and inspiring banner dedication, W. Bro Howard Bean, W. Bro Tim Brooksbank, Munyard Brewery, our caterers, visiting Brethren, family members and friends, and everyone who attended and helped make the day such a resounding success.
For Phoenix Lodge, this was far more than the dedication of a banner. It was a celebration of our identity, our resurgence, and our future as Yorkshire's Masonic Craft Beer and Real Ale Lodge. The incredible support shown by visitors, family, friends and Provincial representatives made the occasion one that will be remembered for many years to come.
Ex Igne – From the Fire, We Rise.
James Steele
