IT'S YOUR ARENA
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It is a great pleasure to write my first introduction to Arena in my new role as Deputy Metropolitan Grand Master. I was formally invested at the recent meeting of Metropolitan Grand Lodge – a thoroughly enjoyable occasion and a wonderful reminder of the energy, enthusiasm and diversity that make London Freemasonry so distinctive.

Some of you may know me from my previous role as a Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies at Grand Lodge, where I had the privilege of supporting the ceremonial life of our Order both around the United Kingdom and abroad. Outside Freemasonry, I have spent much of my professional career working in communications in the City, advising organisations on reputation, public affairs and how best to explain what they do to the wider world.

Both experiences have reinforced for me the value of clarity, openness and thoughtful engagement – qualities that serve Freemasonry just as well as they do any organisation operating in the public eye.

I am immensely proud to have been asked to take on this role and look forward to working closely with the Metropolitan Grand Master and the rest of the Executive Team as we continue to support and develop London Masonry. Ours is one of the most vibrant and diverse Masonic communities anywhere in the world, and it is both an honour and a privilege to help contribute to its future.

It will not have escaped many members’ attention that the application by the United Grand Lodge of England for a judicial review of the Metropolitan Police Service’s decision to add Freemasonry to its list of declarable associations was recently turned down. While that outcome is disappointing, it has only strengthened our determination to continue explaining clearly and confidently what Freemasonry represents today.

The values that guide our members – Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service – are not abstract ideals but principles that shape how Freemasons live and work. Across London, our members contribute to their communities, support charitable causes and build friendships that last a lifetime. The recent attention gives us an opportunity to showcase the reality of modern Freemasonry: an open, forward-looking organisation dedicated to personal growth and service to others.

Finally, a word on something that is both important to me and fundamental to our future: how we support our newer members. Initiation is only the beginning of a Mason’s journey, and the time between meetings can feel like a long one, especially in London where a Lodge might only meet four or five times a year. A message, a conversation, or an invitation to meet socially can make all the difference.

If we take the time to mentor and engage those who have recently joined us, we will not only retain them – we will help them flourish. And in doing so, we strengthen the future of London Freemasonry.

I look forward to meeting many of you around London in the months ahead.

This article is part of Arena Magazine Issue 60 – Spring 2026.
Arena Magazine is the official online magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

Read more articles in Arena Issue 60 here.

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