On the nineteenth day of February, in the year two thousand and twenty-six of this latter age, when winter yet held the land in its pale and patient grasp, the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf assembled beneath their well-wrought canopy. Lamps were kindled against the long night, and the hush that fell upon the gathered company was as that which precedes the unfurling of a banner in some high court of old.
For it was decreed that on this night a rare labour would be undertaken: a Double Third Degree — not unheard of in the annals of the Craft, yet seldom seen, and spoken of in tones of wonder among those who cherish such workings. The cause was no misfortune, but rather abundance. For Lodge St. Olaf, like a strong citadel whose gates are thronged by seekers, had in recent years become a haven to many worthy men. Its fellowship was a fire in winter, and its bond a thing both steadfast and bright. Thus were there many who stood ready in the outer courts, awaiting their ascent to higher knowledge.
The Gathering of the Brethren
Word of this noble undertaking travelled far, and from near and distant valleys came visiting brethren in great number. Among them stood the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, David Wemyss, who upon this eve paid informal visitation, desiring to witness with his own eyes the labours of St. Olaf. His presence lent the hall an added dignity, as though some lord of high renown had come to observe the mustering of a chosen guard.
Yet greater still was the stir when a company from Lodge St. James No. 256 entered in strength and fellowship. They came not only to behold, but in quest — for the Travelling Trowel, that token of friendly rivalry and shared endeavour, was in contest. At the outset they staked their claim boldly, as knights might plant a banner before the walls of a friendly keep. And when the night’s labours were done, their claim stood unchallenged, and the Trowel passed into their keeping, to be borne in honour to Peterhead.
Yet it was spoken — with a glint of mirth and resolve — by the Right Worshipful Master of St. Olaf, that such custody might prove but fleeting. For already in his heart was kindled the intention of a counter-quest, and few who know St. Olaf would doubt that banners shall soon be raised again in friendly challenge.
The Raising of the Worthy
The great work of the evening was led by Right Worshipful Master Bro. Gordon Daly, whose bearing was both sure and gracious. Around him stood a fellowship of office-bearers — some long seasoned in the paths of ritual, others newly come to such honour — yet all united in purpose.
Forth stepped the candidates: Bro. Jake Hynes and Bro. Glynn Jones. Each in turn answered the ancient questions set before him, and their words rang clear and steadfast, as though wrought upon an anvil of discipline and devotion. Their responses brought credit not only to their Mother Lodge, but to their own diligence and spirit. Those who listened did so with approving countenance, for it is no small thing to speak rightly in such an hour.
The Degree was performed with skill, both measured and inspired. Many of the younger brethren took to the floor for the first time, delivering their portions with word-perfect care. It was as though fresh voices had joined an ancient choir, neither faltering nor diminishing the harmony, but strengthening it. In that hall, tradition walked hand in hand with renewal.
Of Fellowship and Friendly Contest
When the formal labours were complete and the Lodge duly closed, fraternal greetings were exchanged with warmth. The Provincial Grand Master spoke with enthusiasm of the forthcoming provincial bowls tournament, soon to be held at Mintlaw’s indoor green on the twenty-second day of February. Lodge St. Olaf, it was declared, would send forth a team to contest this ancient and noble pastime, and to give worthy account of themselves upon the polished field. Thus do brethren test not only their ritual skill, but their aim and steady nerve.
Yet perhaps most telling of the Lodge’s strength was this: that even those of junior rank — Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts — came willingly to attend, though they might not witness the entirety of the Third Degree. They took part in those portions open to them, departing with quiet dignity when required, and returning thereafter for the closing and the harmony that followed. Such devotion speaks of a fellowship that draws its members not by obligation alone, but by affection and shared purpose.
The Harmony at The Level
And so the company repaired to the social chamber known as The Level, where tables were laid with generous fare — sweet and savoury alike — and the bar stood ready with wines and ales to suit every palate. Laughter rose, tales were told anew, and bonds were strengthened in that gentle hour when labour gives way to rest.
Thus ended a night of rare accomplishment at Lodge St. Olaf — a night of double raising, bold quests, and steadfast fellowship. Yet even as the echoes of that evening faded into memory, eyes turned toward the horizon. For in but a fortnight’s time, the Lodge would gather once more to undertake another Double Third Degree.
And so the light endures in St. Olaf, bright against the winter dark — not diminished by its sharing, but ever made stronger.