Distinguished Brethren, Brother Wardens, Brethren all,
Worshipful Assistant Provincial Grand Master
As I stand before you today, humbled and honoured to serve you as the new WM, I am filled with profound gratitude for the trust you have placed in me and the unwavering support whenever needed by all Past Masters and Officers alike. Just twenty years ago, I was initiated into our Craft in a Greek lodge situated in the very centre of the historical Port of Piraeus. Back then, if I were to be asked where I would see myself in 20 years' time, I would never have imagined, even in my wildest dreams, that one day I would become a member of this unique lodge, let alone its Worshipful Master.
Internet Lodge has, without doubt, the largest number of full members coming from many Constitutions around the world and many areas under the English Constitution alike. This diversity is not merely a statistic but a testament to the universality of our Craft that underlines the passion for freedom of conscience, tolerance, compassion and moral and spiritual development. All brethren contribute to a certain extent: their different experiences, backgrounds, Masonic culture, perceptions and rich heritage are all very desirable. These values enrich the quality of our lives and lead us to a better understanding of ourselves, creating a template for self-discovery and personal growth.
As we embark on this journey together, I am mindful of the theme that guides us this year: Geopolitics in Freemasonry, a significant factor that has shaped our Craft in the last 2 centuries on a global scale. For this reason, 3 guest speakers will deliver their talks accordingly on our Social visit to Corfu this May as well as during the Summer and October meetings.
So without further ado, let me present you this year’s programme.
Corfu May 2024.
Corfu, a gem in the Ionian Sea, boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and Masonic heritage woven over centuries. Back to the Homeric times and the Odyssey to the later Venetian, French, and British influences, each leaving their indelible mark on the island's architecture and customs, Corfu seems to stand still, inviting us on a journey through the corridors of history and the echoes of literary greatness.
In the early 19th century, there was a common practice particularly of the Irish, the English and less of the Scots masons to set up Lodges, Chapters and Encampments within Military units. Within the 48 British Regiments of Foot settled in Corfu, in the approximately fifty years of the British Protection we can identify at least eleven Military Lodges . However only seven of them worked in Craft degrees.
On our 5 - day trip, a visit to the oldest masonic museum in Greece and a lecture on ‘Lord Byron’ by the Homonymous lodge under the Grand Lodge of Greece will seal our masonic interest on the island. A visit to Mon Repos the Royal villa where our Brother Prince Philip was born along with the Palace of St Michael and St George formely home to the order where HRH The Duke of Kent is the present 9th Grand Master is not to be missed. Spoiled for choice Brethren and friends alike will opt for organised sporting activities such as croquet, golf, sailing and of course savour the Corfiot cuisine and visiting quaint villages scattered around in the lush greenery.
Oxford August 2024
The beautiful Masonic centre at Cardinal house, next to a picturesque village few miles off the town of Oxford will host our next regular meeting. A lecture on ‘Freemasonry in the Napoleon’s Empire’ will be delivered by our next guest speaker Wbro Alexandros Modiano. Visits to the Ashmolean museum and Christ Church’s Great Hall ( it was used as an inspiration for the great Hogwarts Dining Hal ) are in the agenda along with an afternoon river cruise to satisfy even the most discerning brother!
Yorkshire West Riding Rotherham October 2024
The famous Rotherham Golf Club will accommodate as for the last meeting of my year in Chair. Rich in history, some wonderful folklore, and for centuries its grounds at Thrybergh Park was home to some of the county’s most noble families. Not many clubs can boast a neo-Gothic clubhouse steeped in history and the ancestral home of one of South Yorkshire’s most illustrious families. Our Guest Speaker RWBRO Eddie Kalogeropoulos will shed light to ‘’The English Freemasonry in the Ionian Islands in the 19th century”. A festive board will follow at THE JACK HULLEY LOUNGE with excellent views of the golf course and access to the patio.
As your 26th Worshipful Master, I pledge to lead with integrity, compassion, and humility. Together, let us strive to uphold the timeless principles of our craft and to be beacons of light in a world that too often finds itself in darkness. May the Great Architect of the Universe guide us and bless our endeavours now and always.
Fraternally yours,
Dimitris, James Papageorgiou
26th WM Internet Lodge No 9659