Let the past inspire the future
Our History
The Beginning
After the cessation of hostilities in World War II and a return to more peaceful times, interest in Freemasonry soared to such levels that long waiting lists were quite normal in most Kent lodges.
Among those who were particularly interested in joining were wounded veterans. Many of whom were physically unable to fulfill the requirements of the laid down rites and ceremonies or unable to overcome the rigors of attending lodge buildings, due to the disabilities they endured.
It was the plight of one such member, whose son was a paraplegic had expressed a doubt that he would ever be able to follow him into Freemasonry. This led to a lodge being formed that satisfied the needs of such a disabled person or others in similar distressed circumstances.
The Masonic hall, Church road, Sidcup was the preferred venue as all the facilities were easily accessible and on the ground floor. The meetings would be held on the fourth Saturday in the warmer months of April, May, June, July and August.
Thus The Lodge of St Giles and St Luke came into being on the 15th may 1948 and consecrated on the 12th August 1948.
Our Name
The reason for the chosen title of the lodge, being cited by the founders was as follows :-
"The objects and ideals of the Lodge, it will be observed, including an endeavor to bestow the teachings of Freemasonry upon those who have been unfortunate in life through various causes especially those who may be disabled".
The scriptures inform us that St Giles (Who was invoked as the Patron Saint of people with disabilities, Beggars and Blacksmiths. Who's emblem was a Hind with an Arrow. Circa 720 AD) was ever ready to minister relief to those in distressed circumstances. St Luke, who also in ancient times gave spiritual strength to men of medicine and healing, to carry out the work they had selected as a vocation. St Luke was a physician and the author of the Third Gospel who gleaned his knowledge of the beginnings of the church from the Apostles, early Christians and from St Paul to whom he was a friend and close companion (Circa 100 AD). The work of both Saints in their early lives were accepted by the founders as examples to be followed and it was unanimously agreed that the title St Giles and St Luke would be a reminder to the members of the Lodge to think and work for those less fortunate in life.
What's it all about
Ask 20 people and you will get 20 different answers. Freemasonry is one of the oldest and largest non-religious, non-political fraternal and charitable organisations there is. For many it has been a great way to extend their circle of friends and meet some great and sincere people.
How about fun
After the serious work of the Lodge we relax and enjoy each others company at the Festive Board, that’s what we call the meal that follows each of our meetings. A typical festive Board consists of three or four courses and plenty of chat, some toasts and a chance to catch up on all the gossip with your Brothers. In our Lodge this is included in the cost of membership. If however you only want to dine occasionally, necessary financial adjustments can be made.
Family orientated
We are of course a Fraternity of men, however there are occasions such as Ladies Night festivals when wives and partners are able to attend. We also enjoy social events outside of freemasonry. such as evenings out with our friends and family.
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