Last night Meyrick Lodge member Mark Gibbs had the privilege of visiting Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 in Madeira Beach, Florida — a lodge working under the Grand Lodge of Florida — and by all accounts it was an evening to remember. As any travelling Mason will tell you, there is something special about walking into a lodge room on the other side of the world and being received as a brother. Gulf Beach Lodge delivered that in abundance.
Rising From the Storm
The warmth of the welcome was all the more meaningful given what this lodge has been through. Two years ago, hurricane flooding devastated the entire ground floor of the building, leaving more than four feet of water standing for days. What followed was a remarkable act of collective will — the craftsmen of Gulf Beach Lodge rebuilt from the ground up, with love, dedication, and commitment, incorporating future hurricane defences to ensure the lodge is better protected for years to come.
To see it restored and thriving is, in itself, a powerful testament to the Masonic values we hold dear.
A Lodge on the Rise
The highlight of Mark’s visit was a Fellow Craft Catechism of the highest order — an outstanding performance delivered with an impressive command of ritual that would do credit to any lodge. Gulf Beach Lodge is clearly in fine form; this month alone they have three separate degree ceremonies scheduled, a sure sign of a lodge that is growing with real momentum.
For any Meyrick brother who finds themselves travelling through Florida, Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291 comes very highly recommended. You will not be disappointed.
Our thanks to Mark for sharing his experience, and our fraternal best wishes to the brethren of Gulf Beach Lodge.
