Visit to The Mother Lodge of Scotland – 3rd Degree Ceremony

Mitch Long and David Erne of University Lodge of Chester (ULoC), accompanied by Ed Bond of Bridgegate Lodge, had the distinguished honour of attending a Third Degree ceremony at the Mother Lodge of Scotland (Lodge Mother Kilwinning No. 0).

Upon arrival, Brother Mitch Long was proved by the Worshipful Senior Warden prior to the Lodge opening. In accordance with the Lodge's custom, all MK0 members were seated before visitors were admitted and vouched for. The WSW of MK0 graciously vouched for Mitch, and in turn, he had the privilege of addressing the Right Worshipful Master (RWM) and vouching for his companions. They were then formally welcomed and seated.

During the proceedings, Mitch was invited to the dais—a notable elevation above the Lodge floor—to sit in the East as a reigning Master, alongside Provincial Grand Masters. It was an honour for him to be received in such a distinguished manner.

The Third Degree ceremony was conducted in true Scottish fashion, offering an illuminating and memorable experience. The degree team performed their work with remarkable precision and word-perfect delivery—unsurprising, given their impressive schedule of 26 meetings per year.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Brother Mitch Long greeted the RWM on behalf of ULoC and the Province of Cheshire, conveying sincere thanks for the warmth and hospitality extended to them. This gesture was formally recorded in the Lodge’s historic minute book. In response, the RWM conveyed his own warm fraternal greetings to our Lodge and offered an open invitation for future visits.

Following the meeting, the trio of Cheshire Masons were treated to a traditional Scottish supper of scotch pie and beans, accompanied—naturally—by a pint of Tennents. A lively raffle followed, although their earlier good fortune with train travel did not extend to prize winnings.

During the festive board, they had the pleasure of meeting several esteemed Brethren, including the Provincial Grand Master of Kilwinning, Brother Thomas Wood, and his predecessor, both of whom hold the unique distinction of presiding over a Province comprising a single Lodge. They also met Brother Alan, PGM of Glasgow, and were honoured to be present as Most Worshipful Brother Ioannis, Grand Master of the National Grand Lodge of Greece, became a joining member of MK0 that very evening.

All members interested in participating in future visitations—whether to Scotland or further afield—are warmly encouraged to register their interest with the Worshipful Master of ULoC.