Echoes of Schism: A Glimpse into Freemasonry’s Divided Past

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The Jephson Irregulars give a dramatic retelling of Masonic history combined with heartfelt charity, unity, and reflection on brotherhood at Warwickshire Installed Masters Lodge

From Schism to Solidarity: A Night of Reflection and Giving from The Jephson Irregulars

by Simon Grove

The premier lodge in Warwickshire is fairly old by comparison to some lodges but a mere youngster when compared to others.  Only a handful of Warwickshire Lodges can look back to the time when Freemasonry went through a tumultuous period of division – the time of the Antients and Moderns.  The Jephson Irregulars, came to entertain the assembled throng with the premier performance of Schism, a short play set in the late 18th Century.  This they did in an entertaining yet thought provoking way, all set in the tavern room immediately after their lodge meeting.  It gave a fascinating insight into what was happening at the time with brethren set against brethren simply because their lodges were on differing sides of the divide.

Unsurprisingly, the alms supported Fisher House and WBro Geoff Walker, standing in as Charity Steward, delivered a typically heart-rending appeal.  Brethren, have you taken out a direct debit yet?  If not, it is not too late.  Regular giving is the easiest and best way of support our Tercentenary Appeal and the necessary information can be found on the Provincial website.

The Worshipful Master was delighted to announce that the funds raised at the recent Installed Mark Masters’ Lodge weekend, amounting to some £1200, would be donated to Fisher House.  To that, over £700 was collected on the night itself.  In thanking the Jephson Irregulars, soon to be renamed as Lord Athol’s Men, he presented them with a donation to assist them with their continued efforts.

Having been given an insight to how different Freemasonry was 200+ years ago, the brethren enjoyed another splendid 4538 Festive Board, perhaps a little more mindful not to take our brotherly love for granted.

The Jephson Irregulars give a dramatic retelling of Masonic history combined with heartfelt charity, unity, and reflection on brotherhood at Warwickshire Installed Masters Lodge