Adoniram Lodge No. 1065, meeting at Accrington Masonic Hall, has enjoyed a remarkable revival over the past year. Earlier in the year the Lodge had been preparing to hand in its warrant, bringing to an end more than a century of local Mark Masonry. Keen to retain a Mark presence in what is an important part of East Lancashire, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master Mark Davis, together with W.Bro. Jim Sutcliffe, met with the remaining members to explore every possible option.

Those early conversations sparked a new idea. Instead of closing, the Lodge could reshape how it worked. The proposal was simple yet bold. Reduce the number of meetings from five a year to three and move to daytime meetings to better suit the needs of current and prospective members. Once shared with the brethren, both within the Lodge and in the local area, the appetite for this refreshed approach became clear. The result has been extraordinary. Membership has risen from nine to twenty three and continues to grow, breathing new life into the Lodge and restoring confidence in its future.

This week marked a significant milestone as the Lodge held its first daytime meeting, which was also its installation meeting. Ken Wright was installed into the chair and will celebrate fifty years in Mark Masonry at the February meeting. Our Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, John Hartley Smith conducted the installation with his usual impeccable style, setting the tone for what promises to be a bright and successful new era for the Lodge.

The story of Adoniram Lodge stands as a positive reminder that with imagination, flexibility and a willingness to adapt, Lodges can thrive. It is hoped that this example encourages others across the Province to think creatively about their future and embrace new ways to keep our Masonic traditions strong.

By Bro. Ben Davies