Exploring the Ethical Foundations of Freemasonry
Freemasonry is a longstanding organization known for its secular approach to brotherhood. It’s not tied to any specific religious doctrine but instead focuses on moral and spiritual principles that transcend individual belief systems.
Our Values
Within Freemasonry, members engage in rituals and ceremonies aimed at personal development, emphasizing virtues like integrity, charity, and mutual respect. So, while it’s not a religious institution, it places importance on ethical conduct and self-improvement, fostering a sense of camaraderie among its members.
Kirkleatham Lodge No. 6363: A Legacy of Brotherhood and Tradition
Kirkleatham Lodge number 6363 holds a significant place within the United Grand Lodge of England, the governing body for Freemasonry in England and Wales. The lodge was established and officially inaugurated on November 23rd, 1946, during a ceremony known as Consecration, which took place at the Marwood Masonic Hall in Redcar. This event was presided over by the Provincial Grand Master at that time, who was The Most Honourable The Marquis Of Zetland.
The founding of the lodge was made possible by the leadership of W Bro F. Coulthard PPGD (Past Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies), who played a pivotal role in guiding the twenty-two founding members through the process of establishing the lodge. These founding members came together with a shared vision and commitment to the principles and values of Freemasonry, laying the foundation for Kirkleatham Lodge to become a beacon of fraternal brotherhood, moral development, and community service within its region.
Following the conclusion of the Second World War, there was a notable surge in the formation of Masonic lodges across the country. This increase in lodge formations was influenced by the experiences of men returning from military service, who sought to maintain the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood they had developed while serving in the armed forces. Many of these returning servicemen expressed an interest in joining Freemasonry, drawn to its principles of fellowship, moral development, and mutual support.
However, a significant challenge arose during this post-war period: existing Masonic lodges had lengthy waiting lists for membership initiation. Recognizing the growing demand and the desire to accommodate new members promptly, some existing Freemasons proposed the establishment of new lodges dedicated specifically to welcoming and integrating these returning veterans and other interested individuals into Freemasonry.
Kirkleatham Lodge emerged as a response to this need. Members who recognized the necessity for additional lodges came together to establish Kirkleatham Lodge, with the primary aim of providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for those seeking to join Freemasonry. By creating a new lodge, they sought to ensure that the principles and benefits of Freemasonry could be extended to a broader spectrum of individuals without the constraints of lengthy waiting lists.
Thus, Kirkleatham Lodge was founded and dedicated with the purpose of not only meeting the demand for membership but also fostering a sense of camaraderie, support, and moral growth among its members, echoing the bonds forged during wartime service and extending them into civilian life through the shared values of Freemasonry.