A special milestone and a moving act of Remembrance came together as Odyssey Lodge No. 9739 in Crook welcomed John Watts, Head of Durham Freemasons, accompanied by a small team of Provincial Officers, for its 25th anniversary meeting.
Founded in 2001, Odyssey is one of six daylight Lodges across Durham, offering members an alternative to traditional evening meetings. These Lodges provide an opportunity for Freemasons to enjoy their membership at a time that better suits their personal circumstances, with meetings often followed by lunch and the chance to enjoy good company.
John Watts has a particularly close connection with Odyssey Lodge. He is an Honorary Member, having served as Deputy Provincial Director of Ceremonies when the Lodge was consecrated.
The anniversary meeting was especially poignant as members marked the season of Remembrance with the Ceremony of the Empty Chair, a moving tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of their country.
The ceremony provided an opportunity for quiet reflection, remembering those who gave their lives and the enduring bonds of friendship and brotherhood that connect Freemasons across generations.
There was also a special moment during the meeting when John Watts carried out a field promotion, appointing the Lodge’s Inner Guard, Joseph Tyrer, to the rank of Past Provincial Junior Deacon. Congratulations to Joseph on this recognition.
John and the visiting Provincial Officers received a warm welcome from the members of Odyssey, who were delighted to share this important occasion with them.
Following the meeting, everyone gathered for an enjoyable lunch, with good conversation, friendship and plenty of memories shared as the Lodge reflected on its first 25 years.
It was a fitting celebration of everything that makes Odyssey special, combining a proud history, meaningful Remembrance and a commitment to making Freemasonry accessible and enjoyable.
Could daytime Freemasonry work for you?
With six daylight Lodges across Durham, there are plenty of opportunities to discover a different way to enjoy your Freemasonry. Why not arrange a visit to Odyssey or one of the other daylight Lodges?
Find out more through the Durham Freemasons Lodge Finder:
https://durhamfreemasons.org/lodges/
Don’t Wait To Be Asked. Get out, visit and discover more of Freemasonry across Durham.
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