History was made on Saturday 6th September 2025: for the first time in over a century, a ceremony was delivered in a new European language in London.
The United Arts Rifles Lodge No 3817, The Brazilian Lodge, has been authorised to conduct all of its ceremonies in Brazilian Portuguese, starting with a quadruple raising ceremony held on that Saturday.
This proud achievement is the realisation of a dream that started with 19 Brazilian Freemasons taking over the Lodge in 2019. After many years of hard work, initiating dozens of candidates, joining the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association (AFLA) and being named Banner Lodge for the AFLA Reunion in 2026, the Lodge is grateful to UGLE for granting what, for a long time, felt like a distant and impossible dream.
This historic meeting was an outstanding success, thanks to the generous support of Metropolitan Grand Lodge, including the Met Grand Inspector, Met Assistant Grand Inspector and the Met Grand Secretary. Much help was also gratefully received from UGLE, through the Chancellor’s office in the person of David Robert-Jones, who generously and brilliantly manned the organ and delivered an exceptional atmosphere during the ceremony. He led outstanding renditions of both the British and Brazilian Anthems, a performance that was praised by all in attendance.
A Gathering of Nations
The Lodge was also overjoyed to receive the attendance of the Grand Master General of the Grand Orient of Brazil, the Grand Master of the Grand Orient Paulista (state of Sao Paulo), and the Grand Lodge of the State of Espirito Santo; as well as members of the District and other recognised Grand Lodges in Brazil, all of whom travelled specifically for this momentous occasion.
Visiting the Brazilian Lodge
While ceremonies are now in Portuguese, the importance of visiting and the desire to welcome Brethren with open arms has not changed. Any Brother wishing to visit and sample the signature Festive Board of “all-you-can-eat” braised meat can do so by emailing the Secretary.
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