West Glamorgan Lodge No 5291

10/06/2026

26/04/2026

Our next gathering of the Lunch/Dinner Club will now be on Sunday 24th May 2026. 12.30pm at The Ranch Bar and Grill, Resolven.

This will be a traditional Sunday lunch.

Numbers please by no later than 17th May.

We have moved the date due to numerous other events taking place around the original date of 10th May.

Let’s make this one as successful as the previous gathering.

23/04/2026

Office of the Inner Guard

Overview
The Inner Guard is positioned just inside the entrance of the Lodge room and is responsible for ensuring that only properly qualified Brethren enter during a meeting. Working in close coordination with the Tyler, the Inner Guard protects the Lodge from intrusion and maintains ceremonial order.

Core Responsibilities
* Controls admission to the Lodge once it is open, responding to knocks and verifying that anyone seeking entry is properly vouched for.
* Communicates with the Tyler through the door, passing and receiving messages or signals as required.
* Maintains the security and dignity of the Lodge by ensuring that ceremonial order is preserved at the entrance.
* Assists the Junior Warden, under whose supervision the Inner Guard traditionally operates.
* Uses the appropriate implement (commonly a drawn sword or similar emblem) symbolising vigilance and protection.

Symbolic Significance
* Represents watchfulness, obedience, and the duty to guard the Lodge from unprepared or unqualified entry.
* Symbolises the principle that every Mason must be properly prepared—both literally and symbolically—before progressing.

Position in the Lodge
* Seated inside the door, facing the Junior Warden.
* Acts as the inner sentinel, forming the first line of defence for the sanctity of the Lodge.

Key Qualities of the Inner Guard
* Vigilance and attentiveness.
* Discretion and respect for ritual.
* Clear communication with the Tyler and Junior Warden.
* Calm, disciplined presence at the Lodge entrance.

03/04/2026

The Roll of a Steward in a Masonic Lodge.

The Steward (often Junior and Senior Stewards) plays an important support and ceremonial role rather than a governing one. Their duties combine practical assistance, hospitality, and ritual participation.

Core responsibilities of a Steward

1. Assisting the Deacons
• Stewards support the Deacons during ceremonies.
• They may help guide candidates, prepare the lodge room, and ensure everything runs smoothly during rituals.

2. Preparing the Lodge
• Set up the lodge room before meetings (regalia, tools, seating).
• Ensure all necessary items for ceremonies are ready.

3. Candidate care
• Help look after candidates before and during initiation ceremonies.
• Provide reassurance and guidance when needed.

4. Hospitality & Festive Board
• A major part of the role is organizing refreshments and meals after meetings (called the “Festive Board”).
• Ensuring members and visitors are comfortable and welcomed.

5. General assistance
• Carry out tasks assigned by senior officers such as the Worshipful Master.
• Act as reliable helpers wherever needed.

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Position in the lodge hierarchy
• Stewards are considered junior officers.
• It’s often an early step in a Mason’s progression, giving experience before moving to more senior roles.

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Key qualities of a good Steward
• Organised and dependable
• Friendly and welcoming
• Willing to learn lodge procedures
• Team-oriented

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In short, the Steward is the “backbone helper” of the lodge, ensuring both the ceremonial and social sides of Freemasonry run smoothly.

25/03/2026

A Note from Brother Keith Evans:

Building on the wonderful success of our inaugural Jolly Boys Breakfast, I am pleased to invite you all to the launch of our Monthly Sunday Lunch Club.

Beginning Sunday, 12th April, we will gather on the second Sunday of each month to enjoy good food and even better company. These gatherings are open to everyone, including partners and friends. Our schedule will alternate monthly between a classic Sunday roast and various international cuisines.

For our first meeting, we shall enjoy an afternoon curry at Mint Masala near Neath.

Kindly provide your confirmed numbers no later than 5th April. As the venue is intimate, early booking is essential.