The Chronicles of St. Olaf: Bro. Ewan Mackay RWM 2019 – 2022

The Rise of a Young Master: The Tale of Bro. Ewan Mackay

In the wintry twilight of December 5th, 2019, the Lodge of St. Olaf bore witness to a moment both rare and remarkable, a tale destined to be recounted in its halls for many years to come. For on this day, Bro. Ewan Mackay, a scion of the Craft, ascended to the Chair of King Solomon, becoming one of Scotland’s youngest reigning Right Worshipful Masters.

At a mere 24 years and 6 months of age, Ewan’s ascent was nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to his steadfast spirit and boundless resolve. The ceremonial mantle was placed upon his shoulders by PGMAE Bro. Douglas Nicol, with the guidance of Installing RWM Bro. Norman Daniel, Past Master of Lodge Keith No. 56, and his own father, Bro. Gordon Mackay, Past Master of Lodge St. Olaf. Thus, the torch was passed, from father to son, amid the solemn and joyous proceedings.

The Path of the Apprentice

Ewan’s journey began in the mists of January 2014, when, as a Lewis Mason, he took his first steps into the Light. Installed as Inner Guard later that year, he displayed a precocious talent for ritual and a tireless dedication to the duties of the Craft. Each station he held—Junior Deacon, Senior Deacon, Junior Warden, and Senior Warden—served as another rung in the ladder that led to his destiny. His rise, though swift, was marked by diligence, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the Lodge and its brethren.

A Spirit Tempered by Trial

From the very beginning, Ewan’s life was a tale of resilience. Born 15 weeks premature and facing the challenges of cerebral palsy, he proved to be a fighter of indomitable spirit. What might have daunted others only seemed to forge within him an unshakable determination. This tenacity carried him through his formative years, where he not only excelled as a cellist but also graduated with First-Class Honours, earning renown as a gifted composer.

His compositions, rich with emotion and precision, have graced some of the most esteemed venues, including the Barbican in London. To hear his music is to witness the fusion of talent and resolve, a harmony that echoes his journey through life and Freemasonry alike.

A Voice for the Ages

Beyond his achievements in the arts, Ewan has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. As a lay preacher and motivational speaker, his words resonate with wisdom and courage. He speaks not just of the challenges he has faced but of the triumphs that come when one embraces the values of perseverance and faith. His audiences, much like his brethren, are moved by his example, drawn to the light he carries.

A Bright Future for the Lodge

Under Ewan’s stewardship, the Lodge of St. Olaf finds itself in capable hands. The brethren look to him not merely as a leader but as a symbol of the Craft’s enduring strength and relevance. His story, though still unfolding, is one of promise—a reminder that the Light of Freemasonry shines brightest in those who rise to its challenges and embody its virtues.

And so, the tale of Ewan Mackay, the youngest Master of Lodge St. Olaf, becomes part of the greater tapestry of the Craft. It is a tale

left to right;

PGMASE Bro. Douglas Nicol

RWM Bro. Ewan Mackay

P.M, Bro Gordon Mackay

Office Bearers 2019 – 2022

R.W.M. Ewan Mackay

D.M. Gordon Mackay P.M.

W.S.W. Gordon Daly P.M.

W.J.W. Trevor Cooke

Sec. Mark Dunn P.M.

Tres. Doug Sheal

Almoner. Bill Murray P.M.

S.D. Sandy Tweddle

J.D. Chris Syme

I.G. Richard Parker

Chap. Simon Hope

Tyler. David Platt

Org. James Connor P.M.