On 16th June 2017, the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association gathered in the majestic surroundings of the Grand Temple at Freemasons’ Hall for a biennial Reunion that blended Italian flair with Scottish heritage.
The hosting responsibilities for this year fell to Loggia Italia No. 2687, the only Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England to practice the Emulation Ritual in the Italian language. Led by their Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Nello Boni, LGR, they welcomed a special delegation from Rome: the Loggia Andrew MacBride No. 237.
The highlight of the meeting was a demonstration of an Initiation ceremony in the MacBride Ritual, delivered entirely in Italian. This specific working is exceptionally rare, practised by only five lodges in the world (three in Scotland, one in Singapore, and the visiting lodge in Rome).
The Scottish origins of the ritual were visually striking, reflected in the tartan collars and aprons worn by the officers of Loggia Andrew MacBride. Operating under the auspices of the Gran Loggia Regolare d’Italia (the only Grand Lodge in Italy recognised by UGLE), they offered the 300 brethren present a fascinating glimpse into a unique Masonic tradition.
The meeting was graced by high-ranking dignitaries from both jurisdictions, including the Deputy Metropolitan Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Stephen Fenton, PJGW, and the Grand Master of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy, M.W. Bro. Fabio Venzi.
True to the inclusive spirit of AFLA, the event extended a warm welcome to non-Masonic guests. Following the closure of the Lodge, partners and guests were invited into the Grand Temple for an exclusive presentation on its history and features given by the Curator of the Museum of Freemasonry.
The afternoon concluded in high style with a White Table Festive Board at the Grand Connaught Rooms. In honour of the host and visiting lodges, the menu featured Italian cuisine paired with fine Italian wines, capping off a unique afternoon of cross-border fellowship.
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