On Saturday, 15th June 2024, the grandeur of the Grand Temple at Freemasons’ Hall played host to a truly international spectacle as the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association (AFLA) gathered for its biennial Reunion.
Hosted by Lodge of Reunion and Fellowship No. 5625, the event epitomised the Association’s core mission: bringing together Masonic traditions from across the globe under the banner of friendship. The star of the afternoon was a visiting delegation from Hiram Lodge, of the Grand Lodge of Austria, based in Vienna.
In a rare and educational display, the brethren of Hiram Lodge performed a splendid demonstration of an Austrian First Degree Ceremony. Uniquely, this was conducted in the English language but strictly followed the Austrian working.
For the hundreds of brethren in attendance, accustomed to the Emulation Ritual standard in London, this was a fascinating opportunity to witness the distinct floor work, symbolism, and cadence of the Austrian craft. The demonstration highlighted the rich tapestry of Masonic ritual, showcasing the subtle but profound differences that exist between our jurisdictions.
The Lodge of Reunion and Fellowship and AFLA presented a cheque for £2000 to the Metropolitan Grand Master in support of the London Air Ambulance “Up Against Time” Appeal (this will grow further with the meeting’s Alms collection).
The meeting was graced by the presence of R.W. Bro. Warren Duke, Metropolitan Grand Master, who attended as the Guest of Honour. He was accompanied by a senior delegation from Vienna, led by the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Austria, R.W. Bro. Franz Bauer. They were joined by Masters and Brethren from across the full spectrum of AFLA member Lodges, creating a sea of diverse regalia within the Temple. Following the labour in the Temple, the celebration continued with a “White Table” Festive Board held in the magnificent surroundings of the Grand Temple Vestibule.
Almost 200 attendees including brethren, partners, and guests, filled the Vestibule for an evening of fine dining and conversation. The ambiance was electric, described by many as a perfect showcase of the AFLA Spirit: uniting different foreign-speaking Lodges and cultures in harmony under the English Constitution.
As the toasts were proposed and new friendships forged between London and Vienna, the 2024 Reunion was cemented as a highlight in the Association’s recent history.
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