An entered apprentice
A new Freemason – eager to learn more
When I first became interested in becoming a Freemason, I was well read enough to know that there was an initiation ceremony which all new candidates must undergo. As to what this initiation ceremony actually was, there is enough information floating around in books and on-line to give a general impression of what to expect, but the reality of actually undergoing an initiation is another matter altogether.
I had been reading Masonic literature for some time, mainly from first coming across the idea of Freemasonry while studying for my History degree, but I wanted to experience it for myself. After contacting Mike Jones and going through the interview process and balloting, my initiation date was set for 14 February.
Kyle in the Cumbrian hills
As mentioned, I had a vague idea of what to expect, therefore I was filled with a slight feeling of apprehension, not only for the ceremony itself, but also being among a new group of people. I had read all manner of things about Freemasons, about strange rituals and odd symbols and signs, yet as the day for my first lodge meeting drew closer, I tried to not let my apprehension take hold and began to look forward to it as a new experience which I hoped would open up a new part of my life.
Upon arriving at the Medical Institute in the early evening, I was greeted and welcomed inside where three other initiates were waiting. Although surrounded by antique surgeons tools, anatomy books, and even a plaster cast of Robert the Bruce’s skull, I found myself at ease with my surroundings and with the other people present and began to make introductions. After a short wait, we were summoned into a room to prepare for our initiations.
After the ceremony was complete and I had been accepted into the lodge, we were called upstairs to the festive board for refreshments. Here, under portraits filled with watchful eyes and wine glasses firmly in hand, the process of personal introduction began in earnest.
It is hard to recall many of the names of people I met during the evening, as everyone was eager to make me feel welcome, but I am sure that with subsequent meetings, I will begin to strike up personal friendships with my fellow brethren. We were then called to dinner and the food we were served was of the finest quality, all prepared in the kitchen on site, and wine was in abundance.
The evening was made special for all attending as it was the celebration of Cyril McGibbon’s 60 years in Freemasonry. He gave a splendid speech on what Masonry had meant to him over the years and how it hoped it would bring something great into the lives of all those who had only recently joined.
Shortly after, I was called upon to make a short speech in which I thanked my proposer and seconder, the Worshipful Master and my fellow brethren, and hoped for future pleasant times among them.
Although I have only attended one lodge meeting, I am looking forward to the next. There is a wealth of positive lessons to be learned as one progresses through Freemasonry and I am eager to learn them. It was an honor to be amongst many distinguished and interesting people and I hope that Freemasonry will be a long and pleasant part of my life.
Kyle Nesbitt
Entered Apprentice Freemason
