Sunderland Lodge No. 4114, like some lodges in the Province of Durham, recently started to see its membership falling.
A change was necessary if the Lodge was to survive and after a great deal of discussion a decision was made to both change their meeting night and the months which the lodge meet.
They had for 104 years met on a third Wednesday but instead opted that from September 2024 they would change to a first Friday. This decision did not suit all lodge members, and some decided to leave.
Fortunately, they have not been lost to the Craft as they have either joined other lodges or were already members of other lodges.
The Lodge started an advertising campaign which was successful and during the last nine months they have recruited four keen and interested members with the prospect of further new members in 2026.
Each of these initiations have been described as a “Grand Occasion” as the Secretary, WBro Bernard Hope, and the Visiting Officer, WBro Rod Scott, (both Grand Lodge Officers) have officiated as Deacons at each ceremony.
The move to a Friday evening has also brought more visitors to the Lodge who have been warmly welcomed by members. They have returned regularly and involved themselves in the ceremonies.
Sometimes change is necessary and it certainly has brought success to Sunderland Lodge.
Worshipful Master, WBro Robert Dash, said, “The move to a Friday night was a calculated risk. Some brethren were not in favour of the move and unfortunately decided they could not stay in the Lodge, but with four new members, more visitors and a happy festive board we have made the right decision.”
