Reach out!
Fill in the form on the 'contact' us page and reach out. We will respond to all serious enquiries and we can exchange emails.
People often want a few practical answers before they enquire, visit, or decide whether White Ensign feels like the right lodge for them. These are some of the most common local questions.
Who can Join?
Membership of the United Grand Lodge of England is open to all free men over the age of 18, from all backgrounds, faiths, and walks of life. The only requirement is a belief in a force or Supreme Being that governs the ruling of the universe in which we live.
Can Women Join?
No, however, there are two female-only Grand Lodges: The Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (Fraternity of Women Freemasons). They both follow exactly the same ceremonies and wear the same regalia as male Freemasons, and they often work closely with community and charity projects.
Do I have to have served in the Royal Navy or Royal Marines?
No. Membership is open to men over the age of 18, from all backgrounds, faiths, and walks of life. True, historically, members served in the Royal Navy and Marines, but not any longer.
What will it cost me, if I join?
When you first join, there is a one-off registration fee of £120, which covers your admission into both Craft and Royal Arch Freemasonry. In addition, each Lodge asks for an annual subscription to help meet its running costs, along with contributions to the United Grand Lodge of England and the Province of East Kent. At White Ensign Gillingham Lodge, the annual subscription is £150 per year.
Is there a Dress Code?
Yes, there is a dress code for our formal meetings and some social events. At our formal meetings (6 a year) we wear a dark or morning suit, white shirt, black tie, white gloves and black shoes. For social events it varies but on all other occasions no.
Where and when do you meet?
We hold our formal meetings and most of our Lodge of Instruction at the Gillingham Masonic Centre, Franklin Road, Gillingham, although during the summer we do hold informal meetings at the Gillingham Golf Course.
Do I have to believe in a supreme being?
Yes, but we don’t ask what your faith is. We never discuss religion or politics. We do however, ask that you have a personal belief in a supreme being or force that governs the ruling of the universe.
What if I join, but decide it’s not for me?
We find that most people who join, enjoy themselves. However, we do recognise that some people join and decide its not for them, as with all hobbies and interests. If this is the case, you simply leave. There will be no pressure to stay.
Do I have to learn the ceremonies?
No but if you can and do, we believe it will enhance your experience. However, not everyone has the time to learn the various parts. If this is the case, they can still enjoy the camaraderie that comes with membership, observe the ceremonies and enjoy the festive board after our meetings.
Do I have to give to a certain amount of money to charity?
No, you give what your circumstances in life can afford without detriment to yourself or your family. No one will ask how much you give or how many raffle tickets you may buy.
Interested?
If you are interested and would like to learn more about us, possibly join us, then why not?
Meet for a Coffee or Drink
If you want, we can meet face to face over a coffee or a drink. If you want you can bring a friend or your partner.
Get to know the members
If after meeting meeting with us, you want to meet the other members, we can organise another informal meeting (Maybe at the club for a drink). If you then want to join, we can provide a joining form.