West Sussex Freemasons

16/06/2026

13/06/2026

What is Freemasonry Really About?
One of the questions most frequently asked by prospective candidates is, “What is Freemasonry really about?”
The simplest answer is that Freemasonry is a fraternity of men who seek to improve themselves, support one another, and make a positive contribution to society.
For many years, Freemasonry was often perceived as a secretive organisation, leading to numerous myths and misconceptions. The reality today is rather different. Modern Freemasonry is increasingly open about its purpose, activities, and values. Whilst it continues to preserve traditions and ceremonies that have been passed down through generations, it has nothing to hide and welcomes those who wish to learn more.
At its heart, Freemasonry is founded upon the principles of friendship, integrity, respect, charity, and personal development. It brings together men from all walks of life, regardless of profession, social standing, ethnicity, or background. Within a Lodge, individuals who might never otherwise have met are united by a shared desire to uphold strong moral values and become the best versions of themselves.
Contrary to some popular misconceptions, Freemasonry is not about business networking, political influence, or personal gain. Whilst lifelong friendships are often formed and may naturally extend beyond the Lodge room, members meet as equals. Character and values are considered far more important than titles, status, or occupation.
Freemasonry promotes tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect. Its members come from many different faiths and backgrounds. Whilst a belief in a Supreme Being is required, Freemasonry does not favour one religion over another, and discussions concerning politics and religion are deliberately excluded from Lodge meetings. What matters is not how a person worships, but how they conduct themselves and treat others.
A defining characteristic of Freemasonry is its commitment to charity. Every year, Freemasons collectively donate millions of pounds to support both Masonic and non-Masonic causes. Much of this work is undertaken quietly and without publicity. The guiding principle is simple: those who are able to help others should do so.
Freemasonry is also steeped in history and tradition. Many Lodges have histories stretching back hundreds of years, and their ceremonies use symbolism and traditional stories to teach moral and ethical lessons. These traditions connect today’s members with generations of Freemasons who have gone before them and provide a sense of continuity that is increasingly rare in modern society.
Perhaps the greatest benefit, however, is friendship. In a world where many people experience isolation and a lack of community, Freemasonry offers genuine companionship and a sense of belonging. It provides an environment where members can support one another through both life’s successes and its challenges.
Ultimately, Freemasonry is a fraternity that encourages good men to become better men. It is a place where friendship is valued, charity is practised, traditions are respected, and character matters more than status. It is not about what a man possesses, but about who he is and who he strives to become.
That, in essence, is what Freemasonry is really about.

13/05/2026

SkyDive for St Wilfrid's Hospice Chichester 2026

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/brandon-lawson2026?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=WA

Brandon Lawson is raising money for St. Wilfrid’s Hospice (Chichester)

Every day at St Wilfrid’s Hospice I see the difference compassionate care can make to people and their families during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Working there has shown me not only the incredible support the hospice provides, but also the strength, dignity and kindness shared by everyone involved.

That’s why I’ve decided to take on a skydive to raise money for this amazing charity.

For me, this is more than just a challenge or adrenaline rush. It’s a way of giving something back to a place that means a lot to me personally because 23 years ago they cared for my late gran (you can see her in the gallery on this page) . Every donation will help St Wilfrid’s Hospice continue providing specialist care, comfort and support to local people and their loved ones when they need it most.

Hospices rely heavily on charitable donations to keep providing these vital services, and seeing the work they do firsthand has made me realise just how important every contribution really is.

So, I’ll be stepping out of a plane and facing a huge personal challenge in the hope of raising as much money as possible for a cause that is incredibly close to my heart.

Any donation, no matter how small, would mean a huge amount to me and to everyone supported by St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

Thank you so much for your support.

11/05/2026

Mount Caburn Lodge
Mount Caburn Lodge is Lodge No. 6811 and was founded in 1949 in Brighton, Sussex.
The Lodge takes its name from Mount Caburn, the prominent hill overlooking Lewes in East Sussex, an ancient and historically significant landmark containing the remains of an Iron Age hill fort.
The naming of Sussex Lodges after local landmarks, historical sites and notable Sussex features has long been a common tradition within Sussex Freemasonry, reflecting strong local identity and pride in county heritage.
Mount Caburn Lodge emerged during the significant post-war expansion of Freemasonry in England. Following the Second World War many men who had experienced wartime camaraderie sought similar companionship, structure and mutual support through Freemasonry. This period saw an exceptional growth in Lodge foundations nationally.
Although founded in Brighton its home is Worthing, Mount Caburn Lodge forms part of the wider Sussex Masonic family and contributes to the rich Masonic tradition of the county.

10/05/2026

Howard Lodge of Brotherly Love No. 56.

Originally warranted in 1736, the lodge is regarded as one of the oldest Masonic lodges in the Province of Sussex and, by the time of the Union of the two Grand Lodges in 1813–1814, it was already firmly established in the county. Historical records show it was meeting in Littlehampton during that period, having previously met in Arundel.

Littlehampton today remains an important Masonic centre in West Sussex, with several Craft Lodges and companion orders meeting at the Littlehampton Masonic Centre in Church Street.

21/04/2026

For over three centuries, Freemasonry has quietly been part of the fabric of Chichester.

From its early beginnings in the 1690s—when brethren gathered in candlelit rooms above taverns like The Swan in East Street—to the formal founding of lodges under the patronage of Charles Lennox, 2nd Duke of Richmond, our traditions have stood the test of time.

Through the merging of historic lodges, the creation of the Lodge of Union in 1812, and the continued growth of Freemasonry across Sussex, one thing has remained constant—brotherhood, charity, and self-improvement.

Today, we still meet in Chichester, continuing a legacy built on friendship, integrity, and service to the community.

🔹 300+ years of history
🔹 Lifelong friendships
🔹 Making a difference locally

Freemasonry in Chichester—where tradition meets purpose.