Celebrating a Member’s 60th Anniversary as a Freemason: A Tribute to W. Bro John Meeson
Freemasonry is a lifelong journey of brotherhood, service, and personal growth. Few exemplify this commitment better than Worshipful Brother John Meeson, who recently celebrated his 60th anniversary as a Freemason. This remarkable milestone was honoured by the Lodge of Honour on Monday, 17th March 2025, marking six decades of dedication, fraternity, and Masonic values.
A Journey That Began in 1965
W. Bro John Meeson was initiated into the Lodge of Honour on the 8th of February 1965. Over the years, he has remained a steadfast member of his mother lodge, even as his career took him beyond the Province of Somerset. His journey through Freemasonry led him to serve in lodges across Hertfordshire and Cornwall, where he continued to uphold the principles of the Craft.
To commemorate this outstanding achievement, W. Bro Samuel Tan (Lodge Secretary) and W. Bro Allan Stanistreet (Chaplain) embarked on a special visit to his residence in Wadebridge, Cornwall. They carried with them symbols of recognition, gratitude, and respect from his brethren.
A Meaningful Celebration in Cornwall
Upon arrival, W. Bro John Meeson warmly welcomed his visitors. The occasion was not only a moment to reflect on his contributions but also an opportunity to rekindle old memories. The brethren presented him with several tokens of appreciation, each carrying deep Masonic significance.
A Bicentenary Jewel – A Gift from the Lodge
As a touching tribute from his mother lodge, W. Bro Meeson was presented with the Bicentenary Jewel. This distinguished token was specially chosen in light of the Lodge of Honour’s recent 200th anniversary celebrations. W. Bro Allan had proposed the idea to the Worshipful Master, and the brethren wholeheartedly supported it. It was a fitting tribute for the lodge’s oldest subscribing member, a man whose dedication had spanned six decades. W. Bro Allan had the pleasure of presenting the Bicentenary Jewel to W. Bro Meeson.
The Veteran Award – 60 Years of Dedication
On behalf of the Provincial Grand Master of Somerset, W. Bro Samuel Tan then presented W. Bro Meeson with a Veteran Award, including a framed certificate and a special lapel pin commemorating his 60 years in Freemasonry. This was a proud moment for all involved, acknowledging the dedication, integrity and service that W. Bro Meeson has shown throughout his Masonic journey.
Rekindling Memories
Beyond the formal presentations, the visit became a heartfelt exchange of stories and recollections. W. Bro Meeson reminisced about his time in Bath, where he spent five years before moving to Hertfordshire for work. While he never ascended to the Chair of King Solomon in his mother lodge, his leadership qualities soon led to his installation as Master of his new lodge in Hertfordshire.
One of his fondest memories was the visit from four brethren of the Lodge of Honour to his installation—a testament to the enduring Masonic friendship that transcend geographical distances. When unexpected changes in lodge progression required him to serve a second consecutive year as Master, he took the opportunity to lead a contingent of his new lodge on a visit back to Bath, further strengthening his ties with the Lodge of Honour.
W. Bro Allan and W. Bro Meeson shared common friendships from the old days, recalling a time when many of the lodge’s members were distinguished professionals—surgeons, accountants, and teachers. As names and anecdotes were exchanged, the sense of camaraderie and shared history filled the room, reinforcing the timeless bonds of Freemasonry.
A Final Honour – Provincial Recognition
The highlight of the visit came with the presentation of a sealed letter from the Provincial Grand Master (PGM), RW Bro Ray Guthrie. With great anticipation, W. Bro Meeson carefully opened the envelope and read the letter.
The contents of the letter brought both joy and deep appreciation. In recognition of his lifelong dedication, the PGM had bestowed upon W. Bro Meeson the rank of Past Provincial Grand Junior Warden in the Province of Somerset. This honour was particularly significant, as W. Bro Meeson had already been a Provincial Officer in Hertfordshire and Cornwall but had not yet received such recognition in Somerset.
Upon reading the letter, W. Bro Meeson expressed his heartfelt gratitude, remarking that this appointment completed his Masonic career and journey. The timing of the award was especially meaningful, as it coincided with his birthday the following day on the 18th of March. It was, indeed, a fitting and well-deserved honour for a man who had dedicated his life to the Craft.
Excerpt Message from the Provincial Grand Master
RW Bro Ray Guthrie’s letter beautifully captured the sentiment of the occasion:
“Many congratulations on reaching the 60th anniversary of your initiation into Freemasonry. It is indeed a great achievement and especially noteworthy as you have remained a member of the Lodge of Honour, your mother Lodge, throughout that time.”
“You have enjoyed a long and distinguished career in Freemasonry in three Provinces—Somerset, Hertfordshire, and now Cornwall—and it is great to see that you are still active as the Organist of St Enodoc Lodge.”
“To mark my appreciation for the support you have given to the Lodge of Honour, and thereby to the Province of Somerset, I have much pleasure in offering you the collar of Past Provincial Grand Junior Warden in the Province of Somerset.”
A Legacy of Dedication and Friendship
The celebration of W. Bro John Meeson’s 60 years in Freemasonry was more than just a milestone—it was a testament to a life dedicated to the values of the Craft. His unwavering commitment to Freemasonry across multiple provinces, his leadership, and his enduring connection to his mother lodge serve as an inspiration to all brethren.
The Lodge of Honour is proud to count W. Bro John Meeson among its most esteemed members. His story reminds us that Freemasonry is not just about rituals and traditions, but about lifelong friendships, mutual support, and a shared dedication to service.
