AN OPERATIVE MASON AND A MORSE OF LEWISES
Some might say it’s risky to do anything on Friday the thirteenth. Not so for the Duke of Kent Lodge No 5818, who had a very memorable meeting on Friday 13th February 2026 – for all the right reasons.
It seemed at first glance a simple and straightforward Second Degree Ceremony for Brother Francis Sullivan. And so it was – well executed and enjoyed by all. But what else was going on?
Here is the first unusual thing: Francis is a practising stonemason! He was recently recruited into the Lodge following a chance meeting between Francis and Lodge Master Alan Chitty whilst at Nettlestead Church cemetery as Francis tended to a headstone. You know how it is: you get chatting and one thing leads to another.
Francis also lives in Stone near Dartford: yes really!
Bro Francis pictured in centre with WM Alan Chitty on the left and W. Bro Mark Bailey
Here is another unusual thing: The Lodge now proudly has four Father-and-Son pairs (Lewises) as pictured below:
Graham Moore and his son Jim (Inner Guard).
Steve Downing (Steward) and his son (Banqueting Steward).
Alan Allchone and his son Lee;
And Alan Chitty (Lodge Master) and his son Lloyd (Senior Warden).
And to cap it all there were three more Father-and-Son pairs at the meeting making seven in total:
Les Tasker and his son Seymour Tasker (both of Robinson Lodge No 2046).
Mark Bailey and his son John (both of New Silver Jubilee Lodge No 8823 – Essex);
And the Lodge’s own recent joining member Mark Best and his father David (Bishopway Lodge No 6061).
I’m not sure what the collective phrase for Lewises is but I wondered if it may well be a ‘Morse’! – John Thaw would be turning in his grave at that thought!
This gathering was a wonderful reminder of the bonds of family, fellowship, and shared purpose that strengthen our Lodge. It was a night to celebrate achievement, tradition, and the joy of Masonic companionship”
Following the formal proceedings, the Festive Board was a highlight in its own right. Members enjoyed fine food and wine, raising both serious toasts and bursts of laughter, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie that made the evening truly memorable.
Compiled by Bro Lloyd Chitty
Edited by W. Bro Stuart Skilton
Sub-edited by W. Bro John Ray (Belvidere 503)
