On the evening of Thursday, 19th February 2026, I had the pleasure of paying an informal visitation to Lodge St. Olaf to witness what proved to be a most impressive and memorable occasion — a Double Third Degree, during which two worthy Fellowcraft Brethren were raised to the High and Sublime Degree of Master Mason.
Although a Double Third Degree is not without precedent at Lodge St. Olaf, it remains relatively uncommon. On this occasion, however, it was entirely warranted. Lodge St. Olaf continues to flourish and is, in many respects, a victim of its own success. With a strong and growing pipeline of candidates eagerly progressing through the degrees, the Lodge has demonstrated sustained vitality and appeal, particularly amongst younger men seeking to join our ancient and honourable Craft.
The Lodge room was exceptionally well attended, with a large number of visiting Brethren present. I was delighted to note a particularly enthusiastic deputation from Lodge St. James No. 256, who attended in strength with a clear purpose: to claim custody of the Travelling Trowel. Their intention was formally declared at the outset of proceedings and, having secured the required attendance, they duly claimed the Trowel at the close of the evening. The Right Worshipful Master of Lodge St. Olaf, Bro. Gordon Daly, good-humouredly suggested that its stay in Peterhead may prove short-lived, as his Lodge intends to mount a counterclaim at the earliest opportunity. Such friendly rivalry can only strengthen the bonds between our Lodges and is to be warmly encouraged.
The Degree was ably conferred by the Right Worshipful Master, Bro. Gordon Daly, supported by a committed team of Office Bearers, both experienced and relatively new to office. It was particularly heartening to observe several of the Lodge’s younger Brethren undertaking floor work for the first time. Each delivered their respective pieces with commendable confidence and accuracy, reflecting the high standard of mentoring and rehearsal clearly taking place within the Lodge.
The candidates, Bro. Jake Hynes and Bro. Glynn Jones, answered their test questions individually and with exemplary precision. Their performance was a credit not only to themselves but also to their Mother Lodge. Both Brethren conducted themselves with dignity throughout the ceremony, and I have no doubt they will continue to be valuable additions to the ranks of Master Masons within the Province.
Equally encouraging was the attendance of Entered Apprentices and Fellowcraft Brethren who, although unable to remain for the entirety of the Third Degree, nonetheless attended to support the Lodge and participate in those parts open to them. Their eagerness to be present speaks volumes about the strong sense of belonging and enthusiasm currently evident within Lodge St. Olaf.
At the conclusion of the formal proceedings, fraternal greetings were exchanged, and I took the opportunity to address the Brethren briefly, expressing my appreciation for the standard of work delivered and for the warm welcome extended to myself and all visitors. I also reminded the Brethren of the forthcoming Provincial Indoor Bowls Tournament to be held on Sunday, 22nd February, at Mintlaw Indoor Bowling Centre. I am pleased to note that Lodge St. Olaf intends to field a team and I wish them every success as they represent the Lodge in this longstanding Provincial event.
Harmony thereafter was held in the Lodge’s social space, aptly known as “The Level,” where the Brethren enjoyed excellent hospitality and further fellowship. The atmosphere was one of genuine camaraderie — a hallmark of a healthy and forward-looking Lodge.
In closing, I commend the Right Worshipful Master, his Office Bearers, and the Brethren of Lodge St. Olaf for an evening of excellent ritual, strong attendance, and true Masonic spirit. The Lodge is clearly thriving and looks forward to yet another Double Third Degree when it reconvenes in two weeks’ time — further evidence, if any were needed, of its continued growth and success within the Province of Aberdeenshire East.
