Durnovarian Lodge 8726

15/03/2026

Durnovarian Lodge recently welcomed a new member.

During Durnovarian Lodge’s March meeting, a new member, Ben, was welcomed into the Lodge. It is always a privilege to see someone begin their Masonic journey.

The evening was further enhanced by the presence of a special guest, his friend, who first introduced our Master to Freemasonry. It was a lovely reminder of the friendships and connections that run through our organisation.

A memorable night for all involved, and we look forward to seeing Ben’s journey in Freemasonry unfold.

Durnovarian Lodge No. 8726 meets in Dorchester on the first Thursday of the month. For more information, contact [email protected]

Grateful thanks to Will Monaghan, Lodge Communications Officer

08/02/2026

At the first meeting of 2026, there was a real sense of excitement in Dunovarian Lodge. With our new Worshipful Master and officers taking on their roles, it was clear that everyone had put in a great deal of effort to ensure the evening went smoothly.

We also had the privilege of welcoming our newest member, Bro Mark. It was evident that the Lodge had worked hard over the break, determined to give him the very best introduction and a warm welcome into Dunovarian Lodge.

While every ceremony in Freemasonry marks an important step, the First Degree is always especially meaningful, as it is the moment we welcome a new member into our Lodge. We are delighted to say that we have two further initiations to look forward to in the coming months, an exciting time ahead for Dunovarian.

23/12/2025

A Wonderful Way to Celebrate the Festive Season

The Brethren of Durnovarian Lodge 8726, along with wives, partners, families, and friends, were delighted to return to the Duchess of Cornwall in Poundbury for our Christmas meal. This occasion was particularly special as it marked Jonathan’s first outing as Worshipful Master of the Lodge.

It was a wonderful Christmas gathering, with our highest attendance yet. It was truly heartwarming to see so many gathered together, sharing good food, conversation, laughter, festive cheer, and, of course, a raffle!

A special thank you must go to John and Simon, who worked tirelessly to arrange the meal, organise the venue, and ensure everything ran smoothly on the evening. Our sincere thanks also to the staff at the Duchess of Cornwall for their excellent service and hospitality.

An enjoyable and memorable evening was had by all, and a wonderful way to celebrate the season together.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

21/11/2025

19/10/2025

At our October meeting, the members of Durnovarian Lodge gathered for another enjoyable evening of learning and reflection on our lodge’s history.

Continuing our theme of exploring the stories that shaped our Lodge, Dug, who until recently was the lodge secretary, presented an engaging talk entitled “Masonry Down Under”. This talk was first delivered to the Lodge by the late Arthur Singleton back in February 1999, and it was a pleasure to hear it brought to life once again.

Dug shared Arthur’s fascinating experiences of visiting Lodges across Australia and the many interesting differences he observed in the way meetings were conducted “Down Under.” It was both an educational and entertaining insight into the shared spirit of Freemasonry around the world.
The talk held a special significance for Dug, as Arthur Singleton had been his proposer and also served as the second Master of our Lodge. This lovely connection added real meaning to the evening. The members warmly showed their appreciation for Dug’s thoughtful and well-delivered presentation.

Also during the meeting, we elected our new Master, Jonathan, PPrAGDC, who will lead the lodge for the coming year. The Brethren warmly congratulated him on his appointment, and we look forward to his installation at our next meeting, a particularly special occasion as we head towards our 50th anniversary in the coming year. It promises to be a memorable milestone and the beginning of another successful and enjoyable chapter for Durnovarian Lodge.

17/09/2025

Sunday, the 7th September, saw the 2025 edition of the Three Counties Cycle Ride event run by Middlesex Freemasons.

Starting at the Royal Masonic School for Girls in Rickmansworth. There was a choice of distances to include all abilities. Bro Simon Pearson, from our lodge and having links to Middlesex Freemasons, took the opportunity to meet up with old friends and enjoy a great day riding around the local area. The route included Lily Pink Hill, which is not for the faint-hearted! The ride closed with a BBQ and Drinks.

16/09/2025

A very Well done to all of Dorset Freemasonry and The Not Forgotten
A great way to celebrate our Veterans 🤝

10/09/2025

During our first meeting after the summer break, our secretary, Wbro Paul, put together a talk on the history of our lodge and a short biography on each of the founding members. It really brought our history to life, and we all found it fascinating. All but one of the founders have now passed, but the talk brought to life all the names and photographs we see in our building. This talk was made even more special when we learned it was researched by our dearly departed and much respected Wbro Malcom. For us as a lodge, it is a good way for us to think about the history as we move towards our 50th anniversary next year.

During the festive board, we all started to talk about the upcoming plans the lodge has planned for our anniversary next year.

Pictured are Wbro Paul and Wbro Dug, both of whom were friends and knew many of our founding members.

12/06/2025

Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives today in the tragic events in India,
No words can truly ease the pain of such a sudden loss, our sincerest condolences and prayers for strength, comfort, and healing during this incredibly difficult time.

May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may those affected find solace in the support and compassion of those around them. 💔🕊️

17/05/2025