EAST KENT LIGHT BLUES BROTHERS GO VIRTUAL Virtual Lodge of Instruction is part of the Provincial Learning and Development Programme, led by Provincial Education Officer Graham Chisnell, and provides a platform for Masonic learning and development. The sessions have been running since March 2020, from the start of the pandemic lockdown, providing a space where Brethren can meet, albeit virtually, while there are no regular Lodge meetings. Graham led the session in March 2021, where he welcomed Chair of the East Kent Light Blues Brothers, Howard Griffin, to speak about the formation of the group. Three members of the EKLBB, Andrew Berry, Neil Marshall and Steven Ford, were invited to be placed under the spotlight to speak about their perspective on Freemasonry in the 21st Century. All three spoke eloquently about their experience of the EKLBBs and their journey into Freemasonry.
Howard explained why the EKLBBs were set up and how the group had grown since its inception, with over 220 members currently registered. Graham asked Howard and the EKLLBs about their journey into
Freemasonry. It was clear that there was a key role played by Lodge Mentors in ensuring the new Mason felt welcomed into his Lodge. EKLBBs were also sure that connecting with a group of Masons beyond their Lodge through the social events on offer had brought a greater sense of belonging in the Fraternity, as Brethren built friendships with other Brethren beyond their Mother Lodge. This had led to Brethren visiting Lodges both within their Groups and beyond. It was so heartening to see the EKLBBs thriving and strengthening the fraternal relationships across the Province. The Light Blues Brothers stated that for Freemasonry to remain relevant in the 21 st century it had to remain open-minded. The future was indeed Light Blue! Graham leads the Virtual Lodge of Instruction every third Thursday of the month from 7:00pm-8:00pm. Future sessions will include a focus on specialist Lodges in East Kent, the First Degree Tracing Board and Masonic memory techniques when learning Ritual. Brethren can sign up to attend the sessions online by following this link: https://eastkentfreemason.blogspot.com/2021/03/learning-and-development.html
If you are a Light Blue Brother and would like to get involved in EKLBBs, please contact the chairman Howard Griffin at chairman@eklbb.org.uk. 18
